Fellowship at Finca Verde: Regenerative Agri-Food Residency Program

Introduction

Finca Verde, located in Lanjaron in the Alpujarras region of Granada, Southern Spain, is inviting applicants for our Regenerative Agri-Food Fellowship Program. This is a residency-style program designed for individuals interested in learning about regenerative farming, permaculture design, and developing sustainable income streams within the context of an eco-friendly farm. Fellows will gain hands-on experience, receive mentorship, and contribute to income-generating projects to help support the farm’s ongoing regeneration efforts.

You can get to know more about our project here: https://wiki.ecohackerfarm.org/finca_verde:start & https://fincaverderegen.com/

Why Apply?

We are stewards of 4 hectares of land that we help protect and regenerate, serving as an example for others who are learning how they can engage in similar regenerative practices. The farm is a living example of regenerative agriculture, where we focus on ecological, social, and economic sustainability through permaculture principles.

As a fellow at Finca Verde, you will:

• Participate in the ongoing regeneration of our farm through practical, hands-on activities.
• Learn about soil health, biodiversity, water management in a regenerative farming context.
• Engage in developing and implementing income-generating projects that align with your interests and skills.
• Benefit from 5 hours per week of permaculture design tuition tailored to your level of experience.
• Receive guidance and mentorship as you learn and contribute to the farm’s long-term goals.

The Fellowship Opportunity
The fellowship is designed for individuals looking to deepen their practical knowledge of regenerative farming while contributing to the farm’s ongoing development. The program includes:

• Hands-On Farming Experience: Work directly with our team on daily farm operations, including planting, harvesting, maintaining infrastructure, and implementing permaculture design principles for 20 hours per week.
• Permaculture Design Tuition: Fellows will receive at least 5 hours a week of tuition in permaculture design, with content tailored to the individual’s experience level.
• Profit Sharing: Fellows will have the opportunity to contribute to income-generating projects. These activities will be aligned with your interests and skills, and you will receive a profit-sharing model alongside your stipend.
• Lifelong Support: Fellows who go on to start their own businesses will receive lifelong support through our alumni program. If you wish to return after your fellowship to continue your work or expand on your previous efforts, we will prioritize your application.

What’s Included?

• Food & Shelter: We provide all meals during your fellowship, with an emphasis on healthy, locally sourced ingredients.
• Stipend: Each fellow will receive a small stipend of 50€ per week to cover personal expenses.
• Accommodation: Fellows will stay in shared accommodations on the farm, providing a comfortable space to relax and enjoy the peaceful environment.

What You Can Expect from the Area

Finca Verde is located in the beautiful village of Lanjaron, in the Alpujarras region of Granada, Southern Spain. This area is known for its stunning landscapes, tranquil lifestyle, and vibrant cultural heritage. Here’s what you can expect:

• Natural Beauty: Lanjaron is surrounded by mountains, hiking trails, and stunning views. The region’s Mediterranean climate makes it ideal for outdoor exploration, from hiking in the Sierra Nevada National Park to cycling along scenic routes.
• Traditional Village Life: Lanjaron offers a simple, peaceful lifestyle, where community and connection to nature are highly valued. Experience the charm of this village, with its whitewashed buildings and cobblestone streets.
• Cultural Heritage: The Alpujarras is rich in history, featuring traditional architecture and festivals that celebrate the region’s Moorish and Christian influence.
• Proximity to Granada: Though peaceful, Lanjaron is only an hour away from Granada, a city full of historical landmarks, modern amenities, and a vibrant culture.
• Nearby Orgiva: Just a short drive away, Orgiva is known for its multicultural, bohemian vibe. It hosts a colourful Thursday market, a hub for fresh produce, crafts, and eclectic goods. The market is a gathering place for locals and travelers alike, offering a unique glimpse into the free-spirited side of the region.

Application Process

Send your fellowship application by email to: info@fincaverderegen.com We will review all applications and invite shortlisted candidates for an interview via video call. The interview will help us assess your motivations, skills, and how you align with the farm’s values and objectives.

Eligibility

This fellowship is open to individuals with a passion for regenerative farming, permaculture, and sustainable agriculture and who can be in Europe without the need for visas and work permits. We are looking for applicants who:

• Have a strong interest in learning and contributing to regenerative farming practices.
• Are motivated, self-directed, and open to working in a collaborative, hands-on environment.
• Have an entrepreneurial mindset and are interested in developing income-generating projects.
• Are excited to immerse themselves in rural life and become part of our farm’s community.

During Cohort 1 from September to November

Seasonal work includes almond harvesting and processing, tree planting, fig harvest and processing and grapes. Also drying and processing herbs and vegetable gardening.

During Cohort 2 from November to January

Seasonal work includes tree maintenance, wood stacking, olive harvesting. Also drying and processing of herbs and vegetable gardening and design.

Application Timeline

• Applications Open: 1^st April 2025
• Application Deadline: end of August 2025
• Interviews: Ongoing
• Fellowship Start Dates: 1^st September 2025, 1^st November 2025

This fellowship is partly funded through the International Permaculture CoLab through the Next Steps Project.