Flower Farming Incubator
The Flower Farming/Floristry Incubator is central to the program as flowers and floristry were the genesis of Saipua and Worlds End Farm. Sarah Ryhanen, founder and director, has a great wealth of floral knowledge (both design and farming) and a wealth of industry and agricultural connections to share with residents in this program.
Applicants to this program may be interested in flower farming, floral design, or both. This program will be allotted $5,000 in start-up fees and require 10% of all flower sales (including stem sales, design work, and on-site floral classes) to be donated back to the non-profit organization (Worlds End School) for overhead/operational expenses.
From March 1 – October 31, 2026, participants will work on-site at Worlds End, a working farm and living classroom in upstate New York, growing their own operation while receiving mentorship, infrastructure support, and direct market access through SAIPUA and our extensive network of business and mentoring partnerships.
What You’ll Receive
Dedicated growing space at Worlds End for the duration of the program, including shared access to a 30x70’ high tunnel, seed starting room, and approximately ¼ acre of cultivated, 10-year going, nutrient dense soil. In addition to this open growing space, the person(s) in the floral incubator are expected to utilize (sell) and maintain the perennial resources of established peonies, bearded iris, hydrangea, physocarpus, dogwood, etc.
A place to live and work on the land, with simple on-site cabins, a communal kitchen, and shared farm infrastructure — tools, irrigation, and workspaces.
$5,000 start up stipend for use on seeds, plugs, materials, living costs.
Access to expertise in flower production, business planning, and marketing, including support with bookkeeping, budgeting, and pricing.
Connection to local markets and buyers, with the opportunity to collaborate and sell directly to SAIPUA, and many NYC/Hudson Valley businesses in our network.
Visibility and community support through Worlds End and SAIPUA channels, along with a small stipend to help offset startup costs.
Participants work independently on their own businesses while contributing to the shared maintenance of the farm and participating in periodic group workdays, discussions, and community events.
Who We’re Looking For
We're seeking passionate, early-stage flower growers who:
Have a small or emerging flower-based business with a clear vision for growth
Bring 1-2 years of flower growing experience
Are committed to ecological growing practices and community-minded business models
Can commit to working regularly on-site throughout the growing season (March–October)
Are eager to learn, collaborate, and contribute to the shared life of the farm
Priority will be given to flower farmers committed to the Mohawk/Hudson Region, with long-term collaboration/employment/land share opportunities available at Worlds End for the right resident.
| Deadlines | |
|---|---|
| January 2026 | Applications open |
| February 9, 2026 | Applications due |
| February 16 - March 2, 2026 | Candidate interviews |
| March 9, 2026 | Decisions announced |
| May 1, 2026 | Program begins |
| October 31, 2026 | Program ends* |
*Participants may apply for a second-year extension based on business growth and alignment with Worlds End.
To apply, use the form linked below and please submit:
A brief business outline (1–2 pages) describing your goals, products, target customers, and what you hope to gain from the program.
A vision or mood board that depicts your aesthetic vision and approach.
Responses to the following questions (~300 words):
Why are you interested in the Worlds End Incubator?
How does your work or business align with the spirit of Worlds End?
What do you envision for your business in the next 2–3 years?
Optional materials such as photos of your work, a website, or social media links.