Hi everyone, especially those of you in the US: I’m happy to say that I feel that I almost feel ready to experiment with the first equine, assisted learning/coaching/service session!!! I can’t believe I’m even saying that!!! The therapeutic riding center where I volunteer is interested in expanding our program so I have access to facilities and horses. Now I’m stuck with the insurance question and getting mixed messages 😖 I am an ICF certified coach and have professional liability insurance through Westminster, which is affiliated with the international coaching Federation, so a reputable provider. I called to ask what I needed to do to start offering services including horses. They said I only need to add a general liability policy, which I did. But then another person who is already in the horse industry told me that is wrong and I need a specific policy to cover working with horses. She is an instructor and trainer. She goes to peoples houses to work with their horses. Maybe that’s the difference? I don’t know who to believe and who to trust!!! I would work as an independent contractor with a business registered as a coach and consultant in the state of Vermont. (I already checked that I’m not required to change my business registration to work with horses.) I would lease the arena and the horse at a PATH accredited center that I know has their own liability insurance, but that doesn’t matter for me as a contractor. Can anyone please help me figure this out? I am not a risk taker and really want to have a straight answer before doing anything. Thanks!!! Alex

Hi again, There is another question. The past certified therapeutic center I am volunteering at is interested in this expanding their programs to mental health and learning services. If they get a grant, they are willing to pay for me to take the PATH equine specialist in mental health and learning certification! This means that I could team up with a “ mental health professional, or educator” to offer sessions. The path website doesn’t give detail details about what they mean by mental health professional or educator and they haven’t responded to my email. Does anyone know the answer? If you know anything else about this certification, I’d love to connect. Thanks, Alex

Alrighty Goal Getters! Let's here what you want to accomplish this week! Is it.... ✨️Set a month-end business goal? ✨️To get that program set and ready to go for the next month? ✨️Spread the word about your fantastic farm in your community? Whatever your weekly goal is, we want to hear it! Let's get those goals together!

You have the dream, the drive, and the plan—now all you need is the funding. While traditional loans and investors can feel like locked doors, creativity is often the key that opens unexpected ones. Whether you're launching a business, starting a nonprofit, or just getting your foot in the door, funding doesn't always have to come from conventional sources. Here’s how to think outside the box and get creative with your funding strategies! 1. Start with What You Have Before seeking outside money, take inventory of your own resources: Can you barter services or products? Do you have unused equipment, materials, or space? Are there people in your circle who believe in your mission and want to contribute? Creativity often comes from constraints. Use what’s already around you to build momentum. 2. Crowdfund with Heart Platforms like Kickstarter, Indiegogo, or GoFundMe offer more than just funding—they give you a chance to tell your story. A well-crafted video and heartfelt message can move strangers to become supporters. Keep it personal, honest, and purpose-driven. Offer creative rewards that align with your brand. Use your campaign as a marketing tool—not just a fundraiser. 3. Offer Pre-Sales or Memberships Generate cash flow before your product or service is officially launched: Pre-sell services at a discounted rate! This is where those " Pilot Programs" come in handy! Offer a VIP membership or subscription model with perks for early supporters, especiallyif you're creating an online business. Host an exclusive launch party! Have the community members come meet your horses and see your facility! This will grt them talking and spreading the word about the great programs you have!!. People love being part of a journey—especially when they get early access. 4. Apply for Grants (Even the Small Ones) Grants aren’t just for big corporations or nonprofits. Many local governments, foundations, and even private companies offer small business or project-based grants:

"Never stop learning because life never stops teaching." Sometimes people and animals help teach you when you least expect it...especially when YOU'RE supposed to be the one that is teaching them. We can learn so much from one another especially with an open mind. I'm so grateful for all of you that I have had the pleasure of learning from! Your idwas are so fresh and it motivates me to learn more. I look forward to continue to collaborate with this community 🙌