Modern, Personalized Approach to Alpaca Mentorship
At Elderwood Farms, our story began with humble beginnings, steep learning curves, and the support of incredible mentors who helped shape the farm we are today. That journey inspired us to create something meaningful for others — a way to give back, lift up new voices, and strengthen the alpaca community from the inside out.
The result is START ME UP, our signature mentorship program designed to help farms build confidence, clarity, and long-term success.
Our Purpose
START ME UP was created with a bigger mission in mind.
Beyond helping individual farms succeed, our program is rooted in a commitment to the future of the alpaca industry. We believe that long-term growth depends on:
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passionate breeders who stay engaged
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farms that feel supported instead of overwhelmed
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programs built on knowledge, intention, and sustainability
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a community that actively mentors, uplifts, and collaborates
Our goal is to cultivate lasting participation, long-term commitment, and successful breeders who not only find their footing, but thrive — strengthening the industry for the next generation.
START ME UP isn’t just mentorship.
It’s an investment in the future of alpacas.
Who START ME UP Is For
This program is intentionally built for individuals and farms who are:
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Newer to alpacas
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Feeling stuck or unsure of how to move forward
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Looking to realign, rebuild, or revitalize current herds or long-term goals
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Currently part of or stepping into the show world
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Seeking strategic, supportive guidance from experienced breeders
Whether you’re just starting out or ready to level up, START ME UP provides structure, direction, and expertise rooted in real-world experience.
Our Approach
START ME UP is not a cookie-cutter mentorship model.
It’s a customized, hands-on partnership that meets you where you are and helps you take the next step with purpose. We believe in education, transparency, and empowering breeders to make informed decisions that strengthen their herds and their confidence.
This program reflects the guidance we were fortunate to receive early on — refined, modernized, and built for the demands of today’s industry.
Program Highlights
Extremely Limited Enrollment
Only 3 farms per cycle to ensure meaningful, focused mentorship.
Designed for Breeding & Show Farms
Ideal for farms that are active — or planning to become active — in the breeding and show arenas.
Fully Customized Support
Every farm is different. We tailor guidance to your goals, herd makeup, strengths, and resources.
Clarity, Direction & Strategy
Work with us to define or refine your program’s trajectory and build toward long-term success.
Exclusive Opportunities
Participants gain access to curated insights, strategic planning tools, and select opportunities designed to strengthen their breeding programs.
Let’s Build Something Exceptional — Together
If you’re ready to grow with intention and want experienced, supportive mentors walking alongside you, START ME UP may be exactly what you need.
We’d love to learn more about your goals and explore whether the program is the right fit.
Reach out to us today for details, availability, and next steps.