Page 14 2026 Fall Farm Outlook Lincoln Daily News Oct 2026 Farm Business Farm Management assists farmers with financial management and accounting Since 1924, Farm Business Farm Management has played a significant role in the agricultural industry by assisting farmers with financial management, budgeting and accounting. History and background of Farm Business Farm Management Farm Business Farm Management (FBFM) began as a program of the University of Illinois Extension. Several local organizations were soon established throughout Illinois. The FBFM website explains “on January 1, 2018, FBFM consolidated its local associations into a single statewide entity to streamline services and enhance overall impact.” The work FBFM does is considered “a cornerstone of support for Illinois farmers, helping them make informed financial and operational decisions.” In working with farmers, FBFM Farm Business Consultants “assist farmers evaluate alternatives, mitigating risks, and make sound strategic decisions.” Angela Westen, a farm business consultant at FBFM’s Lincoln office, said the FBFM consultants’ main tasks are maintaining farm records, preparing financial reports, analyzing farm performance, providing financial guidance, assisting with tax planning, supporting long term planning, and income tax preparation. Consultants work with farmers, who are known as cooperators, throughout the year. At the Lincoln office, Westen said they work with about 310 cooperators. Westen said consultants help cooperators prepare budgets by reviewing their financial records, analyzing farm performance and developing projections to guide future decisions. To provide research-based insights, educational outreach, and personalized guidance, Westen said that FBFM combines farm financial data, educational materials, and individualized consulting to help cooperators
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