AgriVenture Programs

AgriVenture offers a unique opportunity for young people aged between 18 and 30 to live and work in another country. Participants in the program, called trainees, live with a carefully selected host-family and work in the host-family's agricultural business.

Where can I go?

IAEA has member countries throughout the world and citizens of any of these member countries can participate in AgriVenture programs. However, AgriVenture program destinations are limited to those countries with host-families. For a complete list of member countries and host-countries, please go to the International Website.

Trainees from Canada can choose from among the following destinations: Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and Japan. There are no programs available from Canada to the USA. Program lengths vary from 4 to 12 months depending on the destination host-country, type of program, and the time of year. For detailed information about specific programs out of Canada, download our 2007 Agriventure Programs Brochure (PDF), or contact us and we will send you a free brochure and application.

What kind of work can I do?

Work placements generally fall into the following categories:

Agriculture - on a livestock and/or cropping enterprise
Horticulture - in an orchard, market garden or greenhouse
Home Management - working in and around the home
Agriculture Mix - Agriculture and Home Management
Horticulture Mix - Horticulture and Home Management

Do I have to be a farmer to participate in these programs?

Not necessarily. Denmark and Norway require a Post Secondary Diploma in Agriculture or Horticulture, but other countries do not. For those countries that do not have any special requirements, experience working in an agricultural setting is an asset, but it is not necessary. Your options may be more limited, but there are some placements available which require less previous experience. And of course, AgriVenture is about learning: learning about another culture and learning new skills.

How much will it cost?

The cost of the program depends on where you want to go and how long you want to stay. An exchange to Europe would cost approximately $3,400 while a trip to Australia or New Zealand ranges between $4,600 and $5,800. An "around-the-world" program that includes a six month stay in two countries can cost up to $7,350.

In addition to the plane tickets, the cost covers:

all IAEA administration costs covering visas, placement, correspondence and supervision
insurance
an Orientation Seminar in the host country
transportation to the host-family's farm
2 years membership in IAEA

In addition to the above, AgriVenture provides the security of a guaranteed job, full board and accomodation provided by the host-family, and 24 hours emergency support service.

If you feel that you cannot afford to go, you may qualify for:

4-H Travel Award: for 4-H members from B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario
Alberta Agri-Cultural Host Family Association Trust Fund (PDF): For applicants from Alberta or Northern B.C.