Dozens of women and minorities gathered Wednesday night to learn about becoming non-traditional farmers and the responsibilities and benefits of owning a farm.

MU Extension was encouraged by the large turnout.

Organizers say there are many opportunities for small farmers to get involved in Missouri's farming industry. Those interested in starting a farm learned about grants and loans from the US department of agriculture.

"There is a grant for small farmers, and they can apply for it. And the deadline is in December, so it's why we're trying to do it as soon as we can," explained Nadia Navarrete-Tindall from the MU Extension.

The meeting is part of a larger series of educational seminars that help minorities adapt to working on US farms.