GRO Recipient, J.R. Meyer, took his first steps toward business ownership with the help of his ag teacher and support from Premier Farm Credit’s GRO Program. Here’s how he transformed his FFA project into a mobile welding business:
Starting an agricultural business is challenging, especially with increasing startup costs and tough competition. Each year, Premier Farm Credit encourages youth participation and leadership in agriculture by awarding one-time grants to 4-H and/or FFA members. These funds are then used to cover costs associated with starting their 4-H projects or Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE).
Real-Life Success Story: J.R. Meyer
One recent success story comes from J.R. Meyer, an 18-year-old high school senior building a mobile welding business in Northeast Colorado.
J.R. began welding as a freshman in high school and quickly realized he wanted to pursue it as a career. To expand his skills, he enrolled in welding courses at Morgan Community College (MCC). In 2023, with the support of his ag teacher, J.R. applied for and received a GRO Program Grant to help with the startup costs of his mobile welding business.
“The GRO Program helped me with the startup costs and gave me the connections I needed to get my business off the ground,” J.R. shares.
Starting a business isn’t easy, especially when you are just beginning and working to gain the trust of potential clients. Marketing himself as a young welder continues to be one of J.R.’s biggest challenges, but with support from the GRO Program, he has been able to get his name out there and build a customer base.
“It’s hard for some people to let an 18-year-old work on expensive ag equipment, but this year I was able to show my project at the Morgan County Fair and the GRO Program helped me get my name out there,” J.R. explains.
Beyond funding, the GRO Program pairs 4-H and FFA members with a member of Premier Farm Credit’s staff, offering mentorship, financial literacy resources, and a network of industry contacts.
“I have really enjoyed getting to know J.R. and learning more about his business. His dedication and ambition are evident, and he’s put together a solid business plan that sets him up for a bright future.” – Andy Piel, Senior Loan Officer, Premier Farm Credit
J.R. plans to continue his education in welding technology, aiming to expand his business even further after finishing school. Through the GRO Program, he not only offset some of his project startup costs but also gained valuable skills to manage his business.
“I would recommend the GRO Program to anyone who is just starting their project. The people at Premier are really helpful, and they will get you started. They have helped me understand more about the financial side of things and what it takes to be a reliable, successful business owner.” – J.R. Meyer
How to learn more:
If you are a 4-H or FFA member looking to start your agricultural project, visit Premier Farm Credit’s GRO Program page to learn more about the GRO Program and see how it could help you build your future in agriculture.
