Browse Ambrook’s collection of grants, loans, discounts, cost shares, easements, and insurance for non-profit.

Read the SALC Guidelines to determine what kind of project you wish to apply for, then submit the required materials by email to salcp@conservation.ca.gov.

Shanna Atherton-Bauer

**Notice**: _On April 14, 2025, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced the cancellation of the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities (PCSC). The USDA plans to reform the program into the Advancing Markets for Producers (AMP) initiative. Contact your local USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) for more information on how to apply to the AMP initiative. _


The SALC Program supports agricultural land conservation, economic growth, and sustainable development by providing grants for three types of projects:

- **Land Use Planning grants** that support&#x2004;the development of local and regional land use policies and economic development strategies to protect critical agricultural land

- **Agricultural Conservation Acquisition grants** to permanently protect croplands, rangelands, and lands utilized for the cultivation of traditional resources from conversion to non-agricultural uses.​

- **Capacity and Project Development grants** to expand organizational capacity to develop agricultural conservation acquisition projects.

The program invests in agricultural land conservation with revenue from the [California Climat​e ​Inv​estments (CCI) Fund​](http://www.caclimateinvestments.ca.gov/), made available for projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions while providing additional benefits to California communities. CCI is derived from quarterly cap-and-trade auction proceeds, which are administered by the California Air Resources Board. 

Three types of grants are offered as a part of this program:

- Agricultural Conservation Acquisition Capacity Funding – Grants to develop agricultural conservation easement and fee acquisition projects and/or cover associated costs to help close acquisition projects where the cost of the acquisition is covered by an alternate source of funding.

- Agricultural Conservation Acquisitions – Grants to protect important agricultural lands under threat of conversion to nonagricultural uses through the acquisition of voluntary, permanent agricultural conservation easements (easements) or fee title purchases. Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation Program Final Program Guidelines - April 2023 2

- Agricultural Conservation Planning – Grants to develop and implement plans for the protection of agricultural lands under pressure of being converted to non-agricultural uses.

The Department of Conservation works in cooperation with the Natural Resources Agency and the SGC to implement the program. ​



Notice: On April 14, 2025, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced the cancellation of the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities (PCSC). The USDA plans to reform the program into the Advancing Markets for Producers (AMP) initiative. Contact your local USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) for more information on how to apply to the AMP initiative. 

The SALC Program supports agricultural land conservation, economic growth, and sustainable development by providing grants for three types of projects:
- Land Use Planning grants that support the development of local and regional land use policies and economic development strategies to protect critical agricultural land
- Agricultural Conservation Acquisition grants to permanently protect croplands, rangelands, and lands utilized for the cultivation of traditional resources from conversion to non-agricultural uses.​
- Capacity and Project Development grants to expand organizational capacity to develop agricultural conservation acquisition projects.
The program invests in agricultural land conservation with revenue from the California Climat​e ​Inv​estments (CCI) Fund​, made available for projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions while providing additional benefits to California communities. CCI is derived from quarterly cap-and-trade auction proceeds, which are administered by the California Air Resources Board. 
Three types of grants are offered as a part of this program:
- Agricultural Conservation Acquisition Capacity Funding – Grants to develop agricultural conservation easement and fee acquisition projects and/or cover associated costs to help close acquisition projects where the cost of the acquisition is covered by an alternate source of funding.
- Agricultural Conservation Acquisitions – Grants to protect important agricultural lands under threat of conversion to nonagricultural uses through the acquisition of voluntary, permanent agricultural conservation easements (easements) or fee title purchases. Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation Program Final Program Guidelines - April 2023 2
- Agricultural Conservation Planning – Grants to develop and implement plans for the protection of agricultural lands under pressure of being converted to non-agricultural uses.
The Department of Conservation works in cooperation with the Natural Resources Agency and the SGC to implement the program. ​

Cities, counties, non-profit organizations, resource conservation districts, regional park or open-space districts, regional park or open-space authorities, and federally recognized California Native American tribe or a nonfederally recognized California Native American tribe that is on the contact list maintained by the Native American Heritage Commission, are eligible to apply.

A lump sum of money for a specific purpose that does not need to be paid back.

Grant

Applicants are encouraged to review the Applicant Self-Screening Tool to assess preliminary eligibility for the program.
All FPEP applications must be filed through Grants.gov.  
Please review the Application Checklist to ensure a complete FPEP application is filed. 
Please review the following documents referenced in the application checklist:
- Project Narrative
- Environmental Checklist
- Feasibility Study Guide (for projects requesting $5 M or more)
- Signed Certifications Fillable Form
All applicant entities must have a current and active registration in the System for Award Management (SAM) in order to file an MPPEP application. Please reference Section 3.7 of the MPPEP RFA for registration instructions.

The Fertilizer Investment & Expansion for Long-term Domestic Supply (FIELDS) Program is intended to expand, or bring into operation new, independent domestic fertilizer production capacity in order to provide&#x2004;agricultural producers with additional domestic fertilizer options and strengthen the U.S. fertilizer supply chain. Program funding supports projects that significantly increase domestic process-manufacturing capacity and fertilizer availability, including expansions or upgrades of existing facilities, construction of new domestic production facilities, shovel-ready projects capable of rapidly increasing domestic supply, and on-site fertilizer terminals and transportation infrastructure that improve supply-chain efficiency. The Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) is utilizing the services of the Rural Business-Cooperative Service to implement the program.



The Fertilizer Investment & Expansion for Long-term Domestic Supply (FIELDS) Program is intended to expand, or bring into operation new, independent domestic fertilizer production capacity in order to provide agricultural producers with additional domestic fertilizer options and strengthen the U.S. fertilizer supply chain. Program funding supports projects that significantly increase domestic process-manufacturing capacity and fertilizer availability, including expansions or upgrades of existing facilities, construction of new domestic production facilities, shovel-ready projects capable of rapidly increasing domestic supply, and on-site fertilizer terminals and transportation infrastructure that improve supply-chain efficiency. The Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) is utilizing the services of the Rural Business-Cooperative Service to implement the program.

Entities are eligible regardless of legal structure and may include Tribes, Tribal Entities, Alaska Native Corporations, for-profit entities, corporations, non-profit entities, producer-owned cooperatives and corporations, certified benefit corporations, and state or local government entities. Private entities must be independently owned and operated.

Eligible applicants must operate within the U.S. and its territories and propose projects physically located within the U.S. and its territories; be domestically owned; process-manufacture (or plan to) in accordance with all federal, state, Tribal and local regulations; and be registered in SAM.gov and maintain registration through the term of an award. Additionally, eligible applicants (including affiliates) must not hold a market share in production greater than or equal to the entity holding the fourth-largest share of that market for any of nitrogen, sulfur, phosphate, potash, or any combination thereof. Multiple applications from affiliated applicant entities are not permitted.

Weeds

Farmers Market

Air Quality

Carbon Capture

Certification

High Tunnel

Landscape

Regenerative

Soil Health

Wildlife & Pollinator Habitat

Certified Organic

Certified Grassfed

Cover Crops

Reduced Tillage

Inputs

Nutrient Management

Food Systems

At least $500 million is available; the maximum award amount is $150 million. Eligible uses of funds include: construction of a new facility or purchase of an existing facility to expand capacity or output (including land purchase); pre-development costs (engineering and professional fees); working capital to support expanded capacity (not as the primary use); modernizing or expanding an existing facility; purchasing new or modernizing existing process-manufacturing equipment; customizing and installing equipment/technology that improves processing, worker conditions, or safety; ensuring compliance with packaging/labeling and occupational-safety requirements; and improving fertilizer logistics (distribution, transportation, storage) to benefit producers (not as the primary use). Applications are filed electronically through Grants.gov. Authorized by section 5(b) of the CCC Charter Act (15 U.S.C. 714c(b)); questions to FIELDS@usda.gov.

Apply for a direct loan with FAME by following these instructions. Your final application packet must be submitted by email to business@famemaine.com. 
You may need some of the documents available below. 

Grow Maine Support Team

Grow Maine, administered by FAME in conjunction with various statewide lending partners, will provide up to $62 million of [State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI)](https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/small-business-programs/state-small-business-credit-initiative-ssbci) funding to eligible Maine businesses. Funding will be available through FAME and its intermediary partners via loan guarantees, direct loans, and equity capital. Grow Maine is intended to provide broad access to capital to help Maine businesses grow and provide jobs for Maine people that will have long-term positive effects on Maine’s economy.

SSBCI is&#x2004;a federal program administered by the U.S. Department of the Treasury that was created to strengthen state programs that support private financing to small businesses. Governor Mills designated FAME to serve as the state agency to accept and administer the allocated funds for the program.


FAME is offering 3 different kinds of funding: 

- Direct Loans

- Equity Investment

- Commercial Loan Insurance


Only direct loans are covered by the application information here, for the others, [go to this page for more information](https://www.famemaine.com/business-financing/for-business-owners/fame-financing-programs/thrive-and-grow-maine/grow-maine-small-business-loan-capital-program/). 



Grow Maine, administered by FAME in conjunction with various statewide lending partners, will provide up to $62 million of State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) funding to eligible Maine businesses. Funding will be available through FAME and its intermediary partners via loan guarantees, direct loans, and equity capital. Grow Maine is intended to provide broad access to capital to help Maine businesses grow and provide jobs for Maine people that will have long-term positive effects on Maine’s economy.
SSBCI is a federal program administered by the U.S. Department of the Treasury that was created to strengthen state programs that support private financing to small businesses. Governor Mills designated FAME to serve as the state agency to accept and administer the allocated funds for the program.

FAME is offering 3 different kinds of funding: 
- Direct Loans
- Equity Investment
- Commercial Loan Insurance

Only direct loans are covered by the application information here, for the others, go to this page for more information. 

Maine businesses and nonprofits with fewer than 750 employees are eligible.

Eligible Purposes
Support loans or investments/projects up to $20 million for legal business purposes, including but not limited to the following:
- Start-up costs
- Working capital
- Business procurement
- Franchise fees
- Equipment
- Inventory
- Purchases of owner-occupied non-investment real estate (commercial or otherwise)
- Purchase, construction, renovation, or improvements of an eligible place of business

Ineligible Purposes
- Refinancing existing debt where SSBCI would replace private funds
- Reimbursement of funds owed by any owner
- Repayment of delinquent state or federal income taxes
- Financing a non-business purpose
- Supporting an existing extension of credit
- Security purchases
- Acquisition or holding of any other real property for investment purposes
- Lobbying activities
- Owner buyouts or equity substitution, except situations resulting in employee ownership

A payment that must be returned to the provider following specified terms of repayment and interest rate.

Loan

- Information and FAQs
- Application Instructions

HVAC

Lighting

Repairs

Email your completed pre-application (available below) to Jeremy Christensen at jeremyc@utah.gov.

Jeremy Christensen

The LeRay McAllister Working Farm and Ranch Fund provides grants to preserve and restore working agricultural land in Utah, benefiting open space and wildlife as well. The Program uses funds appropriated by the Utah Legislature to purchase conservation easements on important pieces of private land, acquire small parcels in fee title under limited circumstances, and provide small restoration grants to improve conserved lands.



Eligible applicants are counties, cities, towns, the Utah Department of Natural Resources, other Utah Agencies, Land Trusts, and charitable organizations that qualify as tax exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Payment per unit of land to do or avoid certain practices related to land management.

Easement

- Utah Land Conservation Program Grant Manual
- Pre Application Cover Sheet
- Eligible Cost Policy
- Appraisal Policy
- LeRay McAllister Glossary
- LeRay McAllister Grant Process Flow Chart
- Notice of Funding Opportunity

Conservation

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. Please contact your local state office for additional information and to apply for the Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program.

This program provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

- Help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.

- Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.



This program provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:
- Help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
- Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

Who may apply for this program?

The following are eligible to be a Microenterprise Development Organization:
- Nonprofits.
- Federally-recognized tribes.
- Institutions of higher education.

The following are eligible to apply for a loan from the MDO as an ultimate recipient:
- Businesses located in an eligible area with 10 or fewer full-time employees.

What is an eligible area?
- Rural areas outside a city or town with a population of fewer than 50,000 residents. Urbanized areas near a city of 50,000 or more may not be eligible.
- The borrower’s headquarters may be based within a larger city so long as the project service area is located in an eligible rural area.
- The lender may be located anywhere.

Check eligible addresses for Business Programs.

Are there other requirements?

Microenterprise Development Organizations must demonstrate experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund, or:
- Certify that it or its employees have received education and training from a qualified microenterprise development training entity so that the applicant has the capacity to manage such a revolving loan fund.
- Demonstrate that it is actively and successfully participating as an intermediary lender in good standing under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or other similar loan programs as determined by the Administrator.

- Program Fact Sheet
- RBCS How-To Apply Video Series for Applicants

Stewardship

Español

Native Americans

People Of Color

Women

Labor

Historically Underserved

What kind of funding is available? 
- Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually. Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.
- Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization. Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

What are the loan terms?
- Maximum term is 20 years.
- Two-year payment deferral.
- Must establish a loan loss reserve fund.

What terms are required on loans to ultimate recipients?
- Up to $50,000.
- Fixed interest rate.
- Limited to 75 percent of project cost.

How may the funds be used?

Microlenders may make microloans for qualified business activities and expenses including, but not limited to:
- Working capital.
- Debt refinancing.
- Purchasing equipment and supplies.
- Improving real estate.

The CDFA Urban Agriculture Grant Program will award up to $11,670,000 for proposals through this solicitation to fund programs and projects that enhance the viability of urban agriculture in urban areas across the state of CA.

Grant Applications Links: Please click the Track you are interested in applying to access the AmpliFund grant application:

- Track 1 Systems Builder Community Based Block Grant

The California Department of Food and Agriculture's (CDFA) Urban Agriculture Grant Program (UAGP) is a competitive grant that funds programs and projects that enhance the viability of urban agriculture in urban areas across the state of California.

The purpose of the Systems Builder Community-Based Block Grant is to increase staff capacity and provide pass through funding for Community-Based Organizations (CBO’s) with grassroots involvement in urban and regional food systems planning. Eligible CBO’s may apply for awards from $200,000 - $800,000 in CDFA funding to engage and administer subawards to urban agriculture stakeholders in their region. Track 1 funded Organizations may utilize between $5,000-$60,000 of the award towards eligible urban agriculture work being done internally. Subawards to external stakeholders will range from $5,000 to $60,000. At least one CBO within each urban region of California will receive an award, and at least one CBO with statewide reach will receive funding. CDFA aims to distribute awards geographically throughout California’s urban areas to the extent possible.

- Track 2 Urban Agriculture Practitioner Grant

The California Department of Food and Agriculture's (CDFA) Urban Agriculture Grant Program (UAGP) is a competitive grant that funds programs and projects that enhance the viability of urban agriculture in urban areas across the state of California.

The purpose of the Urban Agriculture Practitioner Grant is to directly fund urban agriculture projects, providing awards from $75,000 - $300,000 for eligible for-profit businesses, non-profit organizations, Resource Conservation Districts, Tribal Based non-profits, and Tribal Governments that are led by or serve priority populations identified using the California Air Resources Board’s California Climate Investments Priority Populations map and located in urban areas as defined by CDFA.

- NOTE: Applicants may only apply to ONE Track



Sara Bernal

The California Department of Food and Agriculture's (CDFA) Urban Agriculture Grant Program (UAGP) is a one-time&#x2004;only, competitive grant that will fund programs and projects that enhance the viability of urban agriculture in urban areas across the state of CA.


Urban Agriculture refers to the cultivation, processing, and distribution of agricultural products in urban settings, including things like inground small plot cultivation, raised beds, vertical production, warehouse farms, mushroom growing, urban forestry and tree care, community gardens, rooftop farms, hydroponic, aeroponic, and aquaponic facilities, and other innovations. Urban farmers and gardeners work among diverse populations to expand access to nutritious foods, foster community engagement, offer workforce development opportunities, educate communities about food and farming, and expand green spaces.


CDFA defines “urban” as a geographic area no more than 25 miles adjacent to or outside of one Urbanized Area containing a population of 50,000 or more people.


Priority will be given to urban agriculture projects led by or serving priority populations. Priority Populations will be identified using the California Air Resources Board’s [California Climate Investments Priority Populations map](https://gis.carb.arb.ca.gov/portal/apps/experiencebuilder/experience/?id=6b4b15f8c6514733972cabdda3108348).


CDFA will award up to $11,670,000 for proposals through this solicitation.



The California Department of Food and Agriculture's (CDFA) Urban Agriculture Grant Program (UAGP) is a one-time only, competitive grant that will fund programs and projects that enhance the viability of urban agriculture in urban areas across the state of CA.

Urban Agriculture refers to the cultivation, processing, and distribution of agricultural products in urban settings, including things like inground small plot cultivation, raised beds, vertical production, warehouse farms, mushroom growing, urban forestry and tree care, community gardens, rooftop farms, hydroponic, aeroponic, and aquaponic facilities, and other innovations. Urban farmers and gardeners work among diverse populations to expand access to nutritious foods, foster community engagement, offer workforce development opportunities, educate communities about food and farming, and expand green spaces.

CDFA defines “urban” as a geographic area no more than 25 miles adjacent to or outside of one Urbanized Area containing a population of 50,000 or more people.

Priority will be given to urban agriculture projects led by or serving priority populations. Priority Populations will be identified using the California Air Resources Board’s California Climate Investments Priority Populations map.

CDFA will award up to $11,670,000 for proposals through this solicitation.

Track 1 Systems Builder Community Based Block Grant
Eligible Applicants
- Special District Governments, Public and State controlled institutions of higher education, Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized), Native American tribal organizations (not Federally recognized), Nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status (excludes institutions of higher education), Nonprofits without 501(c)(3) status (excludes institutions of higher education), Private institutions of higher education

Additional Eligibility Information
- All applicants for Track 1 must serve communities located in urban areas as defined. Priority will be given to urban agriculture projects led by, or serving priority populations as defined by the California Air Resources Board’s California Climate Investments Priority Populations map.
- Track 1: Systems Builder Community-Based Block Grant Eligibility:
    - Non-profit organizations, Tribal Governments and Tribal Based non-profit organizations with knowledge and experience in Regional Food Systems are eligible to apply.
    - Individuals, for-profit organizations, local, state, and federal government entities, and public or private colleges and universities are not eligible to apply.

Track 2 Urban Agriculture Practitioner Grant
Eligible Applicants:
- Special District Governments, Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized), Native American tribal organizations (not Federally recognized), Nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status (excludes institutions of higher education), Nonprofits without 501(c)(3) status (excludes institutions of higher education), Small Businesses

Additional Eligibility Information
- Only RCD's qualify under Special District Governments. All applicants for Track 2 must serve communities located in urban areas as defined. Priority will be given to urban agriculture projects led by, or serving priority populations as defined by the California Air Resources Board’s California Climate Investments Priority Populations map.
- Non-profit organizations, for-profit organizations, Resource Conservation Districts, Native American Tribes, and Tribal Based non-profit organizations are eligible to apply. Applicants must also be a Qualified Small Business and thus meet the following criteria: Is one of the following:
    - i. A sole proprietor, independent contractor, 1099 employee, C-corporation, S-corporation, cooperative, limited liability company, partnership, or limited partnership, with an annual gross revenue of less than five million dollars ($5,000,000), but greater than one thousand dollars ($1,000), in the 2022 taxable year.
    - ii. A registered nonprofit entity that had an annual gross revenue of less than five million dollars ($5,000,000), but greater than one thousand dollars ($1,000), in the 2022 taxable year.
    - iii. An organization that is fiscally sponsored by a nonprofit corporation.
    - Local, state, and federal government entities, and public or private colleges and universities are not eligible to apply.

Socially Disadvantaged

To apply, carefully read the Notice of Funding Opportunity on grants.gov and follow the instructions to submit an application. 
In preparation for applying, you will need to take the following (free) steps, if you haven't already:
- Obtain an EIN from the IRS
- Register with SAM.gov
- Obtain a Unique Entity Number (UEN) from SAM.gov
- Register an account with Grants.gov

Melanie  Krizmanich

This program provides financial&#x2004;assistance to carry out activities for one or more of the following purposes. 

- Generate compost.

- Increase access to compost for agricultural producers.

- Reduce reliance on, and limit the use of, fertilizer.

- Improve soil quality.

- Encourage waste management and permaculture business development.

- Increase rainwater absorption.

- Reduce municipal food waste; and

- Divert residential and commercial food waste from landfills. 

In addition to meeting one or more of the above purposes applicants are encouraged to align their project proposals to address priorities on environmental justice, racial equity, climate, invest in disadvantaged communities and climate smart agricultural practices. Priority will be given for each of the following elements that are included in a project:

- Anticipate or demonstrate economic benefits for the targeted community;

- Incorporate plans to make compost easily accessible to agricultural producers, including community gardeners, school gardens, and producers;

- Integrate food waste reduction strategies, including innovative food recovery efforts such as food gleaning, storage, and preservation techniques; and

- Include a robust plan that describes collaboration with multiple partners. 



This program provides financial assistance to carry out activities for one or more of the following purposes. 
- Generate compost.
- Increase access to compost for agricultural producers.
- Reduce reliance on, and limit the use of, fertilizer.
- Improve soil quality.
- Encourage waste management and permaculture business development.
- Increase rainwater absorption.
- Reduce municipal food waste; and
- Divert residential and commercial food waste from landfills. 
In addition to meeting one or more of the above purposes applicants are encouraged to align their project proposals to address priorities on environmental justice, racial equity, climate, invest in disadvantaged communities and climate smart agricultural practices. Priority will be given for each of the following elements that are included in a project:
- Anticipate or demonstrate economic benefits for the targeted community;
- Incorporate plans to make compost easily accessible to agricultural producers, including community gardeners, school gardens, and producers;
- Integrate food waste reduction strategies, including innovative food recovery efforts such as food gleaning, storage, and preservation techniques; and
- Include a robust plan that describes collaboration with multiple partners. 

Eligibility for this opportunity is limited to the following entity types:
- City or township governments
- County governments
- Independent School Districts
- State-designated Indian Tribes
- Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized) 
- Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally-recognized tribal governments) 
- Special district governments
- Municipal Governments

- Opportunity on grants.gov (Includes Notice of Funding Opportunity)
- SAM.gov

Waste & Manure Management

Local Food

This program requires applicants to provide a minimum cost share of 25 percent of the federal share awarded. Applications that do not include the required level of cost-sharing will be ineligible for award. Cost sharing may be achieved with contributions of cash, services, materials, equipment, or other in-kind contributions, which may be provided by the applicant or a third party.

A complete application includes: 
- Budget Form added as an attachment. Click here to download form.
- Completion of the Grant Narrative. Click here to download form.
- Conceptual drawings, official estimates/quotes, and other budget justification items can be added as an attachment.
- Completed W9 and Vendor Forms. Click here to download the forms.
- For Non-Profits: A copy of your Federal Tax Exemption Letter must be added as an attachment.

The completed application must be submitted online through the Connecticut DoAg portal.

Jaime Smith

The Farm Viability Grant (FVG) is a competitive matching grant program open to municipalities, regional planning organizations, associations of municipalities, and agricultural non-profits. The maximum grant award is $49,999. **Please be aware this is a reimbursement grant.**




The Farm Viability Grant (FVG) is a competitive matching grant program open to municipalities, regional planning organizations, associations of municipalities, and agricultural non-profits. The maximum grant award is $49,999. Please be aware this is a reimbursement grant.


The following entities are eligible to apply for the Farm Viability Grant: 
1. Municipalities with a current Plan of Conservation and Development 
2. Regional councils of governments organized under the provisions of sections 4-124i to 4-124p, inclusive 
3. Groups of municipalities that have established a regional inter-local agreement pursuant to sections 7-339a to 7-339l, inclusive 
4. Agricultural non-profit organizations 

To qualify for the Farm Viability Grant as a non-profit, the non-profit must be registered with the Connecticut Secretary of State and provide a copy of the federal IRS exemption letter. Nonprofits must have submitted Form 990 and been in existence for the previous three years. 

Prior grantees may reapply for a Farm Viability Grant. However, open awards, past awards, and corresponding project completion and outcomes will be taken into consideration.

NEW: Starting in November 2020, applicants which have received two years of consecutive funding will be ineligible for an award for one year. Applicants can reapply for funding after taking a year hiatus. For example: 
- 2019: Project awarded 
- 2020: Project awarded 
- 2021: Ineligible for an award 
- 2022: Eligible for an award 

All projects which focus on a farmers’ market, must pertain to a Certified Connecticut Grown Farmers’ Market for the full duration of the project to be eligible.

- 2022 Farm Viability Grant Guidelines
- 2022 Farm Viability Grant Fillable Budget Form in Excel Format
- 2022 Farm Viability Grant Fillable Grant Narrative Form in Word Format
- W-9 Form
- State Vendor Form
- Grant Webinar PowerPoint Slides
- Recorded Grant Webinar


Matching funds from the applicant must be a minimum of 40% of the total cost of the project budget; this must be clearly outlined in the application. The match can consist of in-kind and/or cash contributions directly associated with the project. All match expenses must be clearly documented and justified. 

After the issuance of a purchase order, one cash advance of up to 50% of the total grant award may be requested by the grantee. The balance of the award will be reimbursed upon project completion and submission of required documents. 

Each year, FAS announces the EMP application period and criteria in the Federal Register. U.S. non-profit, for-profit and government entities are all eligible to apply. Applicants submit proposals through the Unified Export Strategy (UES) process, which allows eligible organizations to request funding from multiple USDA market development programs through a single, strategically coordinated proposal.

FAS Program Operations Division

The Emerging Markets Program (EMP) helps U.S. organizations promote exports of U.S. agricultural products to countries that have—or are developing—market-oriented economies and that have the potential to be viable commercial markets.


Through the EMP, FAS provides cost-share funding for technical assistance activities such as feasibility studies, market research, sectorial assessments, orientation visits, specialized training and business workshops. The EMP supports exports of generic U.S. agricultural commodities and products, meaning projects that endorse or promote branded products or specific&#x2004;companies are not eligible.


There is no fixed list of "emerging market" countries, but the legislation defines an emerging market as any country that "is taking steps toward a market-oriented economy through the food, agriculture, or rural business sectors of the economy of the country" and "has the potential to provide a viable and significant market for United States commodities or products of United States agricultural commodities." Guidance on qualified countries is provided each year in the program application announcement.



The Emerging Markets Program (EMP) helps U.S. organizations promote exports of U.S. agricultural products to countries that have—or are developing—market-oriented economies and that have the potential to be viable commercial markets.

Through the EMP, FAS provides cost-share funding for technical assistance activities such as feasibility studies, market research, sectorial assessments, orientation visits, specialized training and business workshops. The EMP supports exports of generic U.S. agricultural commodities and products, meaning projects that endorse or promote branded products or specific companies are not eligible.

There is no fixed list of "emerging market" countries, but the legislation defines an emerging market as any country that "is taking steps toward a market-oriented economy through the food, agriculture, or rural business sectors of the economy of the country" and "has the potential to provide a viable and significant market for United States commodities or products of United States agricultural commodities." Guidance on qualified countries is provided each year in the program application announcement.

1. To participate in the EMP, U.S. private or government entities must demonstrate a role or interest in the exports of U.S. agricultural commodities. Government organizations consist of Federal, state, and local agencies. Private entities include non-profit trade associations, universities, agricultural cooperatives, SRTGs, consulting businesses, research institutions, and profit-making entities. Foreign organizations, whether government or private, may participate as subrecipients in activities carried out by U.S. entities, but are not eligible for direct funding assistance from the program.
2. Proposals from research and consulting entities will be considered for funding assistance only with evidence of substantial participation in and financial support to the proposed project by U.S. industry. Such support is most credibly demonstrated through actual monetary contributions to the cost of the project.
3. For-profit entities shall not use program funds to conduct private business, promote private self-interests, or promote their own products or services beyond specific uses approved in a given project. For-profit entities shall not use program funds to supplement the costs of normal day-to-day operations.

Eligibility of Hemp and Hemp Products Under the FAS Market Development Programs
Federal Travel Regulation and the U.S. Open Skies Agreements
List of Restricted Countries - Prohibition of U.S. Assistance and Financing
General Pay Scale
FY 2023 Compliance Review Schedule - Market Development Programs
FY 2021 Compliance Review Schedule - Market Development Programs
FY 2020 Compliance Review Schedule - Market Development Programs
Emerging Markets Program Guidance
Amendment Request Template
- EMP Cost Category Description

Trials

Coronavirus

Fencing

Trade Relief

Trees

Weather

Wildfire

Drought

Flood

Hurricane

Tornado

Disaster Relief

Distribution

Emergency

Marketing

Before you apply, read the full  FY26 Request for Proposals (PDF) for complete details of the program. You can also review the list of past projects and read prior issues of the Greenbook, which contains summaries, findings, and locations of previous grants. Using these resources will help you design a competitive project.

Then, apply through MDA's online application system.
- If you are a new user, you will need to create an account.
- Once you are logged in, select AGRI Sustainable Agriculture Demonstration Grant FY23.

Kelly Anderson

Eric Nooker

MDA Grants Line

The AGRI Sustainable Agriculture Demonstration Grant supports innovative on-farm research and demonstrations. It funds projects that explore sustainable agriculture practices and systems that could make farming more profitable, resource efficient, or personally satisfying. Findings are published in the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s annual _[Greenbook](https://www.mda.state.mn.us/greenbook)_.



The AGRI Sustainable Agriculture Demonstration Grant supports innovative on-farm research and demonstrations. It funds projects that explore sustainable agriculture practices and systems that could make farming more profitable, resource efficient, or personally satisfying. Findings are published in the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s annual Greenbook.

Applicant eligibility
Applications from Minnesota farmers receive priority, but the program also funds Minnesota nonprofits and educational organizations that meaningfully involve Minnesota farmers in projects.
Your project must last two to three years and you must be willing to share what you learn with others.
Project eligibility
MDA will fund projects that explore the profitability, energy efficiency, and environmental benefits of sustainable agriculture practices or systems. Projects can include, but are not limited to:
- Practices that increase environmental sustainability and improve soil health
- Conservation tillage and weed management methods
- Novel cover crops and crop rotations
- Input reduction strategies, including nutrient and pesticide management
- On-farm energy production, such as wind, methane, or biomass, or improvements in energy efficiency
- Developing/refining/improving marketing opportunities, including season extension and post-harvest storage and handling
- Novel enterprise diversification, including organic production, using traditional and non-traditional crops and livestock
- Other creative ideas that focus on environmental benefits, energy savings or production, profitability, and/or farmers’ quality of life

- AGRI Overview
- Sustainable Agriculture Demonstration Grant Statute (M.S. 17.116)
-  Greenbook


Proposals are submitted online at: projects.sare.org
You must make an account to apply.

Rob Myers

Notice: This grant is _currently holding new Calls for Proposals pending notification from our funding source, USDA-NIFA. All NIFA Requests for Applications are under review. You can check back for updates or subscribe to [our mailing list](https://www.sare.org/news/join-our-mailing-list/) to be notified when the Calls are released. We plan to shift the due dates to approximately 60 days after the Calls are released._


The North Central Region SARE (NCR-SARE) Professional Development Grant Program supports state professional development programs and competitive grants for&#x2004;training agricultural professionals.


Professional Development Program (PDP) competitive grants emphasize training agricultural educators in extension, Natural Resources Conservation Service, private, and not-for-profit sectors, using farmers as educators and addressing emerging issues in the farm community. Applicants are educators who often represent but are not limited to, Extension, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and non-profit groups. PDP competitive grants are awarded for state and multi-state PDP projects that emphasize cross-agency training, using farmers as educators and addressing emerging issues in the farm community. 



Notice: This grant is currently holding new Calls for Proposals pending notification from our funding source, USDA-NIFA. All NIFA Requests for Applications are under review. You can check back for updates or subscribe to our mailing list to be notified when the Calls are released. We plan to shift the due dates to approximately 60 days after the Calls are released.

The North Central Region SARE (NCR-SARE) Professional Development Grant Program supports state professional development programs and competitive grants for training agricultural professionals.

Professional Development Program (PDP) competitive grants emphasize training agricultural educators in extension, Natural Resources Conservation Service, private, and not-for-profit sectors, using farmers as educators and addressing emerging issues in the farm community. Applicants are educators who often represent but are not limited to, Extension, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and non-profit groups. PDP competitive grants are awarded for state and multi-state PDP projects that emphasize cross-agency training, using farmers as educators and addressing emerging issues in the farm community. 

Proposals must be targeted to educators within the Cooperative Extension Service (CES), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), other governmental agencies, and/or educators and other relevant personnel in the non-profit and for-profit sectors serving farmers and ranchers. Projects can be for up to 36 months in duration. Involvement of educators from more than one state is appropriate but not required. 

- View the Call for Proposals (Word)
- View the Call for Proposals (PDF)

Funding decisions are made by NCR-SARE’s regional Administrative Council, after receiving feedback from a review committee. The Administrative Council is a collection of farmers, ranchers, university representatives, nonprofit representatives, Extension and NRCS people, other government employees, and agribusiness representatives. This group sets research priorities and recommends projects for funding.
Before writing a grant proposal, determine a clear project goal and explore previous research. It often helps to contact NCR-SARE, local agriculture groups, the Natural Resources Conservation Service, and/or Extension educators to share ideas and invite participation. 

Ohio’s SCBG Request for Proposals is now closed.
2025 Request for Proposals (RFP)
PLEASE SEE RFP FOR DETAILS ON HOW TO APPLY. PLEASE NOTE, THERE ARE SEVERAL PARTS TO THIS YEAR’S APPLICATION, LISTED BELOW:
1. 2025 OH SCBG Applicant Information Form
2. USDA Project Profile Template
3. A PDF of appendices, which should include:
    a. An abstract or executive summary of your project (300 words or less)
    b. A budget outline of your 25% match
    c. Three letters of support for your project
    d. Current résumés for each individual working on the project
    e. Copy of IRS 501(c)3 determination, if applicable
Below is an estimate of the timeline for Ohio’s 2025 SCBG Program.
- January 2025: Gather stakeholder input/feedback
- Feb. 3, 2025 – Mar. 3, 2025: Ohio SCBG
- February 18, 2025: SCBG Application Webinar
- March 2025: Internal application review
- Early April 2025: Review Panel and project selection
- Mid-April 2025: Ohio recommendations and revisions to proposals
- Early May 2025: Submit selections to USDA (this is based on historically when applications were due to USDA)
- May – September 2025: USDA recommendations/revisions
- September- October 2025: ODA contract w/ projects (This will be after revisions are complete and USDA accepts them. This date could be later depending on plan revisions and how long they take).


Grant funding is provided by&#x2004;the USDA Agriculture Marketing Service. Grants range from a minimum of $25,000 to a maximum of $150,000. In addition, all applicants must provide a minimum match of 25 percent of the requested grant amount.

Project proposals are sought that will advance the long-term economic viability of the state’s specialty crop industry, while increasing the marketability of specialty crops. Higher rankings will be given to projects that demonstrate profit potential for growers and that could boost employment opportunities in the specialty crop industry.



Grant funding is provided by the USDA Agriculture Marketing Service. Grants range from a minimum of $25,000 to a maximum of $150,000. In addition, all applicants must provide a minimum match of 25 percent of the requested grant amount.
Project proposals are sought that will advance the long-term economic viability of the state’s specialty crop industry, while increasing the marketability of specialty crops. Higher rankings will be given to projects that demonstrate profit potential for growers and that could boost employment opportunities in the specialty crop industry.

Food and agricultural non-profit organizations, associations or commodity groups, universities and research institutions are eligible to submit specialty crop proposals. Projects that have a focus on the benefit a particular commercial product, or provide a profit to a single organization, institution or individual will not be considered.

Specialty Crops

Aloe Leaves

Blackberries

Fruits

Honey

Horticulture

Mamey Sapote

Maple Syrup

Mustard Greens

Parsnips

Passion Fruit

Pineapples

Plantains

Pummelos

Raspberries

Rutabagas

Tree Nuts

Vegetables

Abiu

Achachairu

Antidesma

Apples

Apricots

Bananas

Barbados Cherry

Blueberries

Breadfruit

Cacao

Caimito

Calabaza Melon

Canary Melon

Canary Seed

Caneberries

Canistel

Cantaloupes

Casaba Melon

Cherries

Chinese Bitter Melon

Chokeberry

Citron

Citron Melon

Coconuts

Cranberries

Crenshaw Melon

Custard Apple

Dates

Dragon Fruit

Durian

Elderberries

Figs

Genip

Goji

Gooseberries

Grapefruit

Grapes

Guava

Guavaberry

Honeyberries

Honeydew

Huckleberries

Israel Melons

Jack Fruit

Jujube

Juneberries

Kiwiberry

Kiwifruit

Korean Golden Melon

Kumquats

Langsat

Lemons

Limequats

Limes

Longan

Loquats

Lychee

Mangos

- Proposal Instructions
- SCBGP Performance Progress Report Template Instructions (pdf)
- 2025 OH SCBG Applicant Information Form
- USDA Project Profile Template
- What is a Specialty Crop?
- One-Minute Overview of SCBGP
- Previous SCBGP Awards

Due dates vary depending on award year. Please click here to review due dates.
Quarterly Reimbursements and Reporting:
- Reimbursement Request Form
- Quarterly Report Form
Annual Reports:
All annual and final reports are due December 1 each year. Project reports should cover their performance period, which is September 30 through September 29 each year.
- Annual Report Template (for awards made 2021 and prior)
- Annual Report Template (for awards made 2022 and after)
For directions on completing your report template, please refer to the document below. 
- SCBGP Performance Progress Report Template Instructions (pdf)
Please refer to the below documents for additional information on outcomes and indicators. Please refer to the document for the year your project was awarded.
- Specialty Crop Outcomes and Indicators (Awarded 2022 and forward)
- Specialty Crop Outcomes and Indicators (Awarded 2021 and prior)
Grant Amendments: 
Below are examples of changes that require prior approval and examples of those requests. Please refer to your project agreement and USDA General Terms and Conditions for additional information.
- Budget Change (pdf)
- Change of Scope (pdf)
- Extension of Grant Agreement (pdf)
- Special Purpose Equipment (pdf)


USDA General Terms and Conditions can be found here. Please sure to select the terms and conditions specific to your projects award year. 

List of Agricultural Funding for Non-Profit