Check Available Small Farm Grants
Farm Grants for Females In Dublin
Federal Government Farm Grants
State Farm Grants
Business grants can provide capital to help farmers and ranchers finance their operations — especially as the agricultural industry continues to change and advance. Unlike small-business loans, farm grants offer free financing that doesn’t need to be repaid.
Finding and applying for these grants can be time-consuming, however, and competition is stiff. Nevertheless, the time and effort may be worth it if you can secure free funds for your farm.
To help you get started, here’s a list of federal, state and private farm grants.
Federal government farm grants
The federal government offers a variety of farm grants through the Department of Agriculture (USDA). You can browse grant options through the agency’s website, which includes information regarding eligibility and how to apply. Here are a few federal farm grants to consider:
Farmers Market Promotion Program
The Farmers Market Promotion Program provides grant funding to help increase community access and the availability of locally and regionally produced products. These small-business grants can be awarded to farms and other agricultural businesses, Community Supported Agriculture networks and associations, and regional farmers’ market authorities, among other organizations.
The program offers three types of farm grants based on how the funding will be used:
Capacity Building grants. Eligible projects include market analysis, strategic planning, producer or market manager education, and consumer outreach.
Community Development Training and Technical Assistance grants. These grants can be used for marketing and promotion assistance as well as technical assistance for compliance with regulatory and buyer requirements.
Turnkey Marketing and Promotion grants. For these grants, applicants must agree to conduct a minimum of three marketing- and promotion-related activities.
Grant funding is available in amounts ranging from $50,000 to $500,000, depending on the type of grant you choose. Like other USDA farm grants, you’ll need to provide a 25% match to qualify for the program.
Specialty Crop Block Grant
In order to apply for the Specialty Crop Block Grant, a U.S. Department of Agriculture grant, you must submit your application to your state department of agriculture. There is no matching requirement for this grant. Applications from state departments are accepted until May 2, 2024.
Value-Added Producer Grant
The Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG) offers funding to help agricultural producers generate new products, create and expand marketing opportunities, and increase income. Grants are available in two options: Planning grants are available up to $75,000 and working capital grants are available up to $250,000.
These farm grants are available across the U.S. and can be particularly good options for beginning farmers, socially disadvantaged farmers and small farmers, as these groups may be prioritized in the application process. The most recent application window closed on April 11, 2024.
State farm grants
Because federal farm grants are limited in number and often very competitive, you may have better success looking for grants at the regional, state and local levels. Grant programs and availability will vary from state to state, but these options may help you get started:
State Departments of Agriculture
Many states offer government farm grants through their Department of Agriculture. These grants may provide funding for farm management and development, agricultural research, marketing and promotion, energy efficiency, climate action, and technology advancement, among other purposes.
For instance, one of the many grants New York State issues is the New York State Grown & Certified Infrastructure, Technology, Research and Development Grant. This farm grant helps agricultural businesses invest in new infrastructure, purchase innovative technology or equipment, and conduct research to meet consumer demand.
As another example, in Missouri, agribusinesses in urban areas can apply for the state’s Urban Agriculture Cost-Share Grant Program. This government farm grant provides funding to promote urban agriculture, supporting projects such as business and marketing plan development, feasibility studies, and community gardens.
You may also find that local colleges and universities, community organizations and agricultural networks offer state-specific grants for farms.