Browse Ambrook’s collection of grants, loans, discounts, cost shares, easements, and insurance that have applications closing soon

Apply at the appropriate link below:
- New Farmer Micro Grant Cognito Form Application Link 
- Infrastructure Investment Grant Cognito Form Application Link 
- Research and Development Grant Cognito Form Application Link
- Innovation and Diversification Grant Cognito Form Application Link

A complete application includes: 
1. Applicant Information (Appendix A) entered on the Cognito Form link 
2. Budget Form (Appendix B) added as an attachment on the Cognito Form link 
3. Grant narrative (Appendix C) added as an attachment on the Cognito Form link 
4. Conceptual drawings, estimates/quotes, production information, etc added as an attachment on the Cognito Form link

Jaime Smith

Mark Hood

The Farm Transition Grant Program (FTG) **[(C.G.S. Sec. 22-26k)](https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_422.htm#sec_22-26k)** is a competitive matching grant program for Connecticut farmers and agricultural cooperatives to support the diversification of existing farm operations, transitioning to value-added agricultural production and sales, and other venues in which a majority of products sold are grown in the state.


Four unique grant categories, for which eligible applicants can apply, are available. Applicants shall select the category for which they think their project&#x2004;most closely qualifies. DoAg reserves the right to alter the grant category selected by the applicant. Below are summaries of each category.

 

**New Farmer Micro Grant**

Microgrants to support new individuals/partnerships who have one full year to three years of production history and are seeking long-term careers that financially support them through farming and agriculture.

- Maximum award: $5,000

- Match requirement: 25% of project costs

**Infrastructure Investment Grant**

To support farmers who have been in production for a minimum of three years with infrastructure to expand the farm’s production and operation.

- Maximum award: $25,000

- Match requirement: 50% of project costs

**Research and Development Grant**

 A grant program for farms to conduct research to assess the viability and develop a new product line, service, or market.

- Maximum award: $25,000

- Match requirement: 40% of project costs

**Innovation and Diversification Grant**

A grant program for the implementation of a new product or service for market or business expansion after a research and development phase has been explored.

- Maximum award: $49,999

- Match requirement: 25% of project costs




The Farm Transition Grant Program (FTG) (C.G.S. Sec. 22-26k) is a competitive matching grant program for Connecticut farmers and agricultural cooperatives to support the diversification of existing farm operations, transitioning to value-added agricultural production and sales, and other venues in which a majority of products sold are grown in the state.

Four unique grant categories, for which eligible applicants can apply, are available. Applicants shall select the category for which they think their project most closely qualifies. DoAg reserves the right to alter the grant category selected by the applicant. Below are summaries of each category.
 
New Farmer Micro Grant
Microgrants to support new individuals/partnerships who have one full year to three years of production history and are seeking long-term careers that financially support them through farming and agriculture.
- Maximum award: $5,000
- Match requirement: 25% of project costs
Infrastructure Investment Grant
To support farmers who have been in production for a minimum of three years with infrastructure to expand the farm’s production and operation.
- Maximum award: $25,000
- Match requirement: 50% of project costs
Research and Development Grant
 A grant program for farms to conduct research to assess the viability and develop a new product line, service, or market.
- Maximum award: $25,000
- Match requirement: 40% of project costs
Innovation and Diversification Grant
A grant program for the implementation of a new product or service for market or business expansion after a research and development phase has been explored.
- Maximum award: $49,999
- Match requirement: 25% of project costs


The following entities are eligible to apply for all Farm Transition Grant categories: 
1. Agricultural producers, singularly or jointly, whether such producers are owners or tenants of existing agribusiness within the State of Connecticut 
2. Agricultural cooperatives To qualify for the New Farmer Micro Grant, eligible entities must meet the following to qualify: 
    a. Apply for or possess a Farmers’ Tax Exemption Permit through the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services 
    b. Have a 2-5-year business plan drafted 
    c. Complete a crop plan 
    d. Be the operation owner and have been in production for a year or more 
    e. Tenants must include a written agreement between all necessary parties regarding the submitted project
To qualify for the Infrastructure Investment Grant, Research and Development Grant, and Innovation and Diversification Grant eligible entities must meet the following: 
- Be registered with the Connecticut Secretary of State, if established as a limited liability corporation or incorporation 
- Possess a Farmer’s Tax Exemption Permit 
- Have submitted a Schedule F, Form 1120S, Form 1065, or Schedule C for the previous three years 
- Tenants must include a long term written lease agreement between all necessary parties regarding the submitted project. 
Previous awardees to the Farm Transition Grant can reapply. 
Past awards and corresponding project completion will be taken into consideration when evaluating applications. 
Applicants who have an open agreement and a project in progress are ineligible to apply. 

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

Grant

A payment that requires some percentage of matching contributions by the recipient.

Cost Share

- Grant Application Guidelines and Forms
- 2021 Farm Transition Grant Appendix B: Budget Fillable Form in Excel format
- 2021 Farm Transition Grant Appendix C: Grant Narrative Fillable Form in Word Format

Marketing

Local Food

Food Systems

Match Requirement, Expenses, & Payment: 
All eligible expenses funded by any Farm Transition Grant program must advance farming and agriculture as defined by Connecticut General Statutes Section 1-1(q). 
All grant categories have a cash match requirement of which the percentage necessary varies. The cash match requirement for each program can be self-financed, bank-financing, or provided through another grant (federal, state, or otherwise). If a grant is providing the match, the applicant must disclose the grantor, the grant name, and amount awarded. A three-year profit and loss statement and current profit and loss must be provided. 
The Farm Transition Grant must be paid directly to the applicant. 
The following expenses cannot be used as a match and will not be funded by any grant category: 
- Any expense incurred prior to contract execution 
- Land acquisition/mortgages 
- Cost of borrowing (points and other fees) 
- Expenses related to establishing a new organization/business 
- Any portion of expense for which the applicant pays a contractor in merchandise or service in lieu of cash 
- Tuition/tuition reimbursement or career-related/scholarship funds 
- Routine business expenses (utilities, office supplies, etc.) 
- Disposable supplies (office, farm, otherwise) unrelated to the project 
- Legal expenses related to litigation 
- Indirect or contingency costs of any percentage 
The following expenses are an acceptable match if they directly and meaningfully support the proposed project: 
- Employee salaries and fringe benefits paid to execute the project 
- State/local/federal permits 
- Attorneys’ fees (not related to litigation) 
- Consumable or disposable supplies 
Eligible expenses by grant category can be found on page 4. The eligibility of general-purpose equipment will be reviewed based on grant category and project usage. 
These are reimbursement grants. Incomplete projects cannot be fully reimbursed. 
A reimbursement of 50% of the award can be provided to the New Farmer Micro Grant awardees during the project work, with the remaining 50% of the award reimbursed upon project completion. Receipts with proof of payment to justify the first 50% of the award must be provided. 
Project Duration & Post Award Requirements 
Projects must be completed within 18 months of contract execution. Contract and project extensions are not allowed.
Applicants of awarded projects will be responsible for the following: 
1. Signing an agreement with the State of Connecticut 
2. Providing a Certificate of Insurance holding the state harmless or listing the state as an additional insured on the grantee’s liability insurance policy 
3. Completing the project within the contractual timeframe
4. Submitting a final project report in the required format per the executed contract 
5. Submitting a final financial report itemizing actual expenses. Copies of invoices and proof of payment must be submitted with the payment request at the conclusion of the project 
6. Agreeing to a site inspection once the project is complete and prior to final payment being released 
7. Other requirements as outlined in the State of Connecticut contract 
Grantees will have additional training on requirements once contracts are executed.


Eligible specialty crop operations can apply for FSCSC by working directly with the Farm Service Agency office at their local USDA Service Center. Applications will be accepted via mail, fax, hand delivery, or electronic means.  
The following forms are needed to apply for FSCSC (Available below):
- FSA-888, Food Safety Certification for Specialty Crops (FSCSC) Program Application: (available soon) This form includes a certification of the applicant’s status as a specialty crop operation and a small or very small business, and their eligible expenses. Complete the form according to the FSA-888 instructions.
- AD-2047, Customer Data Worksheet
- SF-3881, ACH Vendor/Miscellaneous Payment Enrollment Form
- CCC-860, Socially Disadvantaged, Limited Resource, Beginning and Veteran Farmer or Rancher Certification (if applicable)
- Supporting Documentation, if requested: Please note that applicants may be required to provide additional documentation to the Farm Service Agency, if necessary, to substantiate the expenses reported on the application. Examples of supporting documentation include paid invoices, purchase receipts, test results, food safety plans, and certifications, training documentation, and other records determined acceptable by FSA.

The FSCSC program provides financial assistance for specialty crop operations that incur eligible on-farm food safety program expenses related to obtaining or renewing a food safety certification in&#x2004;calendar years in 2022 or 2023. This program helps offset costs to comply with regulatory requirements and market-driven food safety certification requirements. 

FSCSC provides up to $200 million to specialty crop operations that incur eligible on-farm food safety program expenses related to obtaining or renewing a food safety certification in calendar years 2022 and/or 2023. For each year, FSCSC will cover a percentage of the specialty crop operation’s cost of obtaining or renewing their certification, as well as a percentage of their related expenses.



The FSCSC program provides financial assistance for specialty crop operations that incur eligible on-farm food safety program expenses related to obtaining or renewing a food safety certification in calendar years in 2022 or 2023. This program helps offset costs to comply with regulatory requirements and market-driven food safety certification requirements. 
FSCSC provides up to $200 million to specialty crop operations that incur eligible on-farm food safety program expenses related to obtaining or renewing a food safety certification in calendar years 2022 and/or 2023. For each year, FSCSC will cover a percentage of the specialty crop operation’s cost of obtaining or renewing their certification, as well as a percentage of their related expenses.

To be eligible for FSCSC, an applicant must:
- Have obtained or renewed a:
    - 2022 food safety certification that was issued between June 21, 2022 and December 31, 2022; or
    - 2023 food safety certification issued during the 2023 calendar year, and 
- Have paid eligible expenses. Expenses that have been incurred by the applicant, but have not yet been paid, will not be eligible.
- Be a specialty crop operation; and meet the definition of a small business or very small business.
    - A small business means an applicant that had an average annual monetary value of specialty crops the applicant sold during the 3-year period preceding the program year of more than $250,000 but not more than $500,000. 
    - A very small business means an applicant that had an average annual monetary value of specialty crops the applicant sold during the 3-year period preceding the program year of no more than $250,000.
- Be located in the 50 United States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. 

- Frequently Asked Questions about the Food Safety Certification for Specialty Crops Program
- Notice of Funds Availability: Food Safety Certification for Specialty Crops Program
- Fact Page

Public Health

Compliance

- Email: grants@ccof.org to apply. 

- The application is available in both English and Spanish.


Larissa Hernandez

When farmers transition their land from conventional to organic, they have to wait three years before achieving certification and selling their products as organic. During this three-year period, farmers are learning new farming techniques, creating new systems for their business, and generating new markets for their soon-to-be-organic products, all while cultivating products that are not yet able to earn certified organic premiums.

Organic Transition grants provide financial support to farmers who want&#x2004;to shift into to organic production. These grants and technical assistance are available to farmers and ranchers in California who are interested in transitioning to organic production.

Program participants receive grants, mentorship, and technical support in agronomy, business and financial literacy, marketing, and market development over a three-year period.

**Grant Amount: **$10,000 per year for three years, for a total of $30,000.

There may be the opportunity for eligible transitioning farmers to qualify for an additional $1,000/transitioning acre up to 30 acres for soil building practices.



When farmers transition their land from conventional to organic, they have to wait three years before achieving certification and selling their products as organic. During this three-year period, farmers are learning new farming techniques, creating new systems for their business, and generating new markets for their soon-to-be-organic products, all while cultivating products that are not yet able to earn certified organic premiums.
Organic Transition grants provide financial support to farmers who want to shift into to organic production. These grants and technical assistance are available to farmers and ranchers in California who are interested in transitioning to organic production.
Program participants receive grants, mentorship, and technical support in agronomy, business and financial literacy, marketing, and market development over a three-year period.
Grant Amount: $10,000 per year for three years, for a total of $30,000.
There may be the opportunity for eligible transitioning farmers to qualify for an additional $1,000/transitioning acre up to 30 acres for soil building practices.

Organic Transition grant applicants must:

- Be farming or ranching in California (and must reside in California)
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Already be practicing regenerative organic production methods
- Provide written documentation of landowner’s approval to transition if renting/leasing
- Have a business plan, marketing plan (for after certification), and/or an Organic Systems Plan for transitioning to certified organic production and/or be in the process of completing these plans
- Demonstrate financial need
- Submit supporting financial documentation (i.e. Profit and Loss Statements from current and previous years)
- Have a minimum of five years of agricultural production experience
- Have at least two years of running or owning a farming or ranching business and/or equivalent experience
- Be willing to conduct an interview as part of the application process
- Submit a Letter of Reference with your application
- Submit a yearly report and a final report at the end of the grant period
Producers of all crop and livestock eligible for organic certification are encouraged to apply.
Applicants from underserved and socially disadvantaged communities, as well as small and medium sized farms and ranches, will be prioritized.  

Certification

Conservation

Research

Grantees will be required to track and retain all records of grant funding expenditures;

Grantees will be required to cooperate with the CCOF Foundation to provide information related, but not limited to certification, acreage, crops, land mapping, and organic transition plans.
Allowable Costs:
- Organic livestock, poultry, and related expenses, such as animal health management required by organic standards;
- Organic feed;
- Educational materials, training on organic certification and production, or meeting attendance, in addition to services offered by CCOF;
- Inspection and certification fees;
- On-farm water or soil testing fees;
- Outside consultant fees if desired, as for development of an Organic System Plan (OSP);
- Farming supplies to be applied to organic farming on the transitioning acres, such as organic-approved plastic mulch;
- Farm equipment and repair to that equipment, where equipment is specific or widely preferred for organic farming of the type expected to occur on the transitioning acres. Qualifying equipment must be drawn from the following list, or authorized by CDFA:
    - Compost production, storage or spreading installations and equipment;
    - Weed management tools such as flamers or tines, tarps, row cover;
    - Transplanting or direct seeding equipment;
    - Intercropping equipment and modifications;
    - IPM-aligned equipment;
    - Other cover-cropping equipment;
- On-farm processing and distribution equipment (e.g., peelers, coolers, produce washing, sorting and sizing bins, refrigerated vehicles for transporting whole or minimally processed food) where it is applicable to the products expected from transitioning acres.
Unallowable Costs: 
- Property or land rent or lease;
- Taxes;
- Owner or employee labor;
- Inputs for land outside the defined transitioning field(s), or for animals not dependent on the transitioning field(s).


- Review the RFA for the Long Island Aquaculture Infrastructure Grant Program.
- Visit https://ffgf.smapply.us/res/p/Home-Page
- If you do not already have an account with FFGF, set up an account by using the Register button in the top right-hand corner of the page. Reference the How to Create an Account on Survey Monkey guide below.
- Select the Long Island Aquaculture Infrastructure program and proceed to begin your application.
- You are not required to complete the application process in a single sitting. The form enables you to save your progress and resume at a later time or date from where you left off. It's important to note that none of your saved responses are final until you officially submit your application, allowing you to make changes or edits as needed.


NY State State Agriculture Commission Office

NY state-funded grant program—administered jointly by the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets and the Farm and Food Growth Fund (FFGF)—offering funding specifically for aquaculture equipment to support operations on Long Island.



- Aquaculture producers, growers, and hatchery businesses based in Long Island (for-profit).
- Trade associations or Tribal Governments representing groups of eligible local aquaculture producers (if demonstrating collective benefit).

Aquaculture

Aquatic Plants

Seafood

Eels

Fish

Shellfish

Atka Mackerel

Carp

Catfish

Flounder

Goosefish

Herring

Hybrid Striped Bass

Largemouth Bass

Ornamental Fish

Pacific Cod

Pacific Ocean Perch

Pollock

Recreational Sportfish

Red Drum

Sablefish

Salmon

Sole

Sturgeon

Tilapia

Trout

Tuna

Turbot

Crustaceans

Crab

Dungeness Crab

King Crab

Snow Crab

Southern Tanner Crab

Crayfish

Lobster

Molluscs

Geoduck

Squid

- Long Island Aquaculture Infrastructure Equipment Only Grant RFA
- RFA en español 
- How to Create an Account on Survey Monkey
- Step by Step Video: How to Complete the Application
- Equipment Only Applicant Guidance
- How to Complete the Supplies Budget Table
- Hoja de orientacion para Solicitantes de Equipo Solamente


Irrigation

Water Quality

Waterway Protection

Wetland Conservation

Water Management

- Total pool: At least $1.2 million available for equipment-only grants.
- No matching funds required.
- Projects must be completed within six months from grant agreement execution.

Funding covers purchase and delivery of equipment/supplies that support aquaculture operations, including (but not limited to):
- Shellfish-related: diving gear, cages, trays, nets, buoys, anchors, tumblers, sorting/counting machines, washing machines, winches.
- Kelp/aquatic plants: mooring systems (lines, chains, buoys, droppers).
- Cold chain distribution: refrigerated vehicles or retrofits.
- Other equipment justified to support scaling, efficiency, cold storage, food safety, processing or distribution enhancements.


Read the full Request for Proposals and apply online following these instructions.

If you need the application in an alternative format, contact the program administrator.

Emily Mehr

The AGRI Urban Agriculture Grant Program encourages urban youth agricultural education and urban agriculture community development within city limits of urban or peri-urban areas.


Grants help organizations and communities obtain the materials and services necessary to successfully promote urban youth agricultural education and urban agriculture community development.



The AGRI Urban Agriculture Grant Program encourages urban youth agricultural education and urban agriculture community development within city limits of urban or peri-urban areas.

Grants help organizations and communities obtain the materials and services necessary to successfully promote urban youth agricultural education and urban agriculture community development.

The following groups are eligible to apply:
- For-profit businesses
- Non-profit organizations
- Schools
- Local government entities
- Native American tribal communities

Project Eligibility:

Eligible grant projects include the purchase and installation of equipment; capital expenditures (costs incurred to make physical improvements to or construct a facility); and/or dedicated staff contractor time. Projects must be located in or serve communities that meet one of the following criteria:
- Cities with a population over 5,000 or located within the boundaries of federally recognized tribal land and serving tribal community members, regardless of population size. You'll find a list of eligible cities and tribal areas in the Request for Proposals.

- Request for Proposals - Urban Agriculture Grant FY25
- How to Fill Out Your Online Application
- FAQs
- Resources for Grantees
- Past Projects

Stewardship

1. Review the Sample Application and gather the required two (2) reference letters. 
2. Apply at this portal. Paste your answers from the Sample Application into the online form and submit.

NC AgVentures is a Cooperative Extension program that provides grants to North Carolina independent family farms, and community organizations that work with family farms to develop new and innovative agricultural projects which will increase&#x2004;farm profits. This is a great opportunity for any producer who is thinking of diversifying, improving, or expanding their operation.


NC AgVentures offers two grant options:

1. Individual Grants for North Carolina family farms who are agriculturally dependent and who have viable ideas for innovative agricultural projects to increase farm profits. 

2. Community grants are available for community groups and organizations with project ideas that will directly benefit 3 or more farms. Some examples: Cooperative Extension, farming associations, local schools, churches and civic groups with




NC AgVentures is a Cooperative Extension program that provides grants to North Carolina independent family farms, and community organizations that work with family farms to develop new and innovative agricultural projects which will increase farm profits. This is a great opportunity for any producer who is thinking of diversifying, improving, or expanding their operation.

NC AgVentures offers two grant options:
1. Individual Grants for North Carolina family farms who are agriculturally dependent and who have viable ideas for innovative agricultural projects to increase farm profits. 
2. Community grants are available for community groups and organizations with project ideas that will directly benefit 3 or more farms. Some examples: Cooperative Extension, farming associations, local schools, churches and civic groups with


Family farms and community organizations working with farmers in the following counties are eligible to apply: Alamance, Alexander, Alleghany, Anson, Ashe, Cabarrus, Caswell, Catawba, Chatham, Davidson, Davie, Durham, Edgecombe, Franklin, Forsyth, Gaston, Granville, Greene, Guilford, Halifax, Harnett, Iredell, Johnson, Lincoln, Martin, Mecklenburg, Nash, Northampton, Orange, Person, Pitt, Randolph, Rockingham, Rowan, Sampson, Stanly, Stokes, Surry, Union, Vance, Wake, Wayne, Wilson, Wilkes, Warren, and Yadkin.

Succession

Distribution

Diversification

Events

Trade Show

Certified Organic

Trade Relief

Legal & Finance

Labor

Priority will be given to: 
- Applicants that are current/former tobacco growers, former quota holders, tobacco workers or close family descendants. 
- Farms that have not received previous funding from NC Tobacco Trust Commission, RAFI or NC AgVentures 
- Applicants that earn at least 50% of their gross personal income from their farm operation. 
- Proposals that present a new direction or innovative opportunity to diversify, expand or implement new entrepreneurial plans for their farm operations that are viable and will increase farm profits. 
Criteria: 
- The project must increase farm income and/or maintain employment opportunities The proposal must be adequately researched 
- The budget must be realistic 
- The applicant must have the skills to complete the project or have identified technical assistance to help them implement a successful project 
- The project must become self-supporting and/or enhance your ability to keep farming The proposal must be reviewed and submitted by a N.C. Cooperative Extension agent All proposals must be typed for consideration

View the application questions and complete your application online at this portal.

The Agricultural Enterprise Fund (AEF) is an incentive program that supports Governor Lee’s priority of job creation and economic development by facilitating agricultural development in Tennessee. It is administered by the Department of Agriculture in conjunction with the Department of Economic and Community Development.

The AEF awards grants to starting or expanding agricultural, food, and forestry businesses; nonprofits, local governments, and other entities in Tennessee, or those whose project will be located in Tennessee. The program focuses on value-added&#x2004;and processing projects that benefit other producers or forest landowners. Farming projects such as livestock, row crop, or horticulture production expansions will not be competitive, but may be supported through the [Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program (TAEP)](https://www.tn.gov/agriculture/farms/taep.html).

Successful grant recipients must demonstrate a strong potential for impact on local farm income, access to markets, increased capacity or agricultural innovation. Priority will be given to businesses located in at-risk counties, distressed counties, and counties adjoining at-risk or distressed counties, and the AEF selection process is competitive. 



The Agricultural Enterprise Fund (AEF) is an incentive program that supports Governor Lee’s priority of job creation and economic development by facilitating agricultural development in Tennessee. It is administered by the Department of Agriculture in conjunction with the Department of Economic and Community Development.
The AEF awards grants to starting or expanding agricultural, food, and forestry businesses; nonprofits, local governments, and other entities in Tennessee, or those whose project will be located in Tennessee. The program focuses on value-added and processing projects that benefit other producers or forest landowners. Farming projects such as livestock, row crop, or horticulture production expansions will not be competitive, but may be supported through the Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program (TAEP).
Successful grant recipients must demonstrate a strong potential for impact on local farm income, access to markets, increased capacity or agricultural innovation. Priority will be given to businesses located in at-risk counties, distressed counties, and counties adjoining at-risk or distressed counties, and the AEF selection process is competitive. 

Applicant Requirements
- Applicants must be a Tennessee entity (i.e. agriculture, food, or forestry business, farmer, local government, or nonprofit in Tennessee) or have a project based in Tennessee.
- Applicants must demonstrate that their project will increase farm income for local farmers, enhance access to agricultural markets, increase capacity of their business, or contribute to the agriculture industry through innovation.
- Applicants must be making an investment into the project. AEF funds may not be more than 25% of the project’s total budget.
- Applicants must submit project updates to measure impact of the grant on the applicant as well as the local economy, and agree to work with the Department of Agriculture to track success of the project.
- Applicants may not submit proposals that will result in relocation of a facility from one place in Tennessee to another.
- Applicants must purchase at least 25% of any agricultural inputs from Tennessee producers. This requirement may be relaxed when compliance would be impracticable – i.e. in times of drought, disease, etc.
Project Requirements
Projects funded by the Agricultural Enterprise Fund must match the description of at least one of the following four categories. Many projects will potentially match the description of more than one category and applicants should indicate so on their application.
- Increase in Farm Income - This category includes projects that will increase farm income by offering farmers higher commodity prices than other markets, processing value-added products for farmers, or allowing a single farmer to add value to their own farm products.
- Increased Access to Markets - This category includes projects that will create or expand a market for Tennessee farmers or forest landowners, including reducing miles that farmers must transport their products to market or creating a new market entirely. 
- Increased Capacity - This category includes projects that will expand the capacity of an existing agricultural, food, or forestry business, including their production or processing capacity or the number of employees.
- Agricultural Innovation - This category is appropriate for entrepreneurs who wish to market a new technological innovation with the potential to impact Tennessee agriculture or the forestry industry by creating efficiencies in production, reducing costs, etc.

- Application Scoring
- Metrics
- Frequently Asked Questions

Trees

Contact your regional coordinator for an application and information on project requirements and work with your coordinator to applying for grant funds. Find your county coordinator using this map.

Utah Department of Agriculture & Food 

Troy Forrest

The Utah Grazing&#x2004;Improvement Program seeks to improve the productivity, health, and sustainability of Utah rangelands and watersheds. It’s believed that well planned and managed livestock grazing is the most important landscape-scale tool for maintaining healthy rangelands, watersheds, and wildlife habitats. Healthy rangelands contribute to a healthy livestock industry and productive rural economies. The goals are to strengthen Utah’s livestock industry, improve rural economies, and to enhance the environment. The program includes three grants:

**Utah Grazing Improvement Program Grant**

- Applications are open annually through January 1. 

- The Utah Grazing Improvement Program (GIP) provides cost-share grants to rangers for rangeland improvements. Eligible projects include any restoration work that will improve rangeland health, productivity and management. In order for proposals to be competitive, a recommended maximum request is $100,000. 

- Project examples: elimination of invasive species, reseeding, livestock water development and improvements, fencing, grazing management planning, and any other projects that improve watershed and rangeland health and productivity. 


**UGIP Predatory Animal Control Grant**

- 2022 Application window open through June 17, 2022. 

- This grant is open to eligible livestock producers who have suffered predation losses and provides reimbursement for up to 50% of the cost of the contracted amount for practices used to stop or reduce predation. A total of $150,000 is available.


**UGIP Small Livestock Producers Grant**

- 2022 Application window open through June 17, 2022

- This grant is open to small livestock producers (50 animal units or less) for projects that will improve grazing management on federal, state, or private land. A total of $100,000 is available with an award maximum of up to $10,000. 




The Utah Grazing Improvement Program seeks to improve the productivity, health, and sustainability of Utah rangelands and watersheds. It’s believed that well planned and managed livestock grazing is the most important landscape-scale tool for maintaining healthy rangelands, watersheds, and wildlife habitats. Healthy rangelands contribute to a healthy livestock industry and productive rural economies. The goals are to strengthen Utah’s livestock industry, improve rural economies, and to enhance the environment. The program includes three grants:
Utah Grazing Improvement Program Grant
- Applications are open annually through January 1. 
- The Utah Grazing Improvement Program (GIP) provides cost-share grants to rangers for rangeland improvements. Eligible projects include any restoration work that will improve rangeland health, productivity and management. In order for proposals to be competitive, a recommended maximum request is $100,000. 
- Project examples: elimination of invasive species, reseeding, livestock water development and improvements, fencing, grazing management planning, and any other projects that improve watershed and rangeland health and productivity. 

UGIP Predatory Animal Control Grant
- 2022 Application window open through June 17, 2022. 
- This grant is open to eligible livestock producers who have suffered predation losses and provides reimbursement for up to 50% of the cost of the contracted amount for practices used to stop or reduce predation. A total of $150,000 is available.

UGIP Small Livestock Producers Grant
- 2022 Application window open through June 17, 2022
- This grant is open to small livestock producers (50 animal units or less) for projects that will improve grazing management on federal, state, or private land. A total of $100,000 is available with an award maximum of up to $10,000. 


- How the GIP Program Works
- Representatives and Contacts (For GIP assistance in your area)
- Program Structure
- History
- Measuring Success
- The Future of Grazing
- History of Grazing in Utah
- Grazing Monitoring
- Utah Rangeland Improvement Act (Utah Code Annotated: Title 4, Chapter 20)


Reduced Tillage

Regenerative

Carbon Capture

How to Apply
1. Review the full Request for Applications (FY 2024 linked as a sample) for the complete details on eligible projects/applicants and the full application process.
2. Register in WebGrants (may take up to two business days).
3. Visit the Working Lands application frequently asked questions for resources and to get support on your application. 
4. Complete your application in WebGrants using our Application Guide.

Clare Salerno

Diana Ferguson

WebGrants Technical Assistance

The mission&#x2004;of the Vermont Working Lands Enterprise Initiative is to strengthen and grow the economies, cultures, and communities of Vermont's working landscape. The Working Lands Enterprise Board achieves this by making essential, catalytic investments in critical leverage points of the Vermont farm and forest economy, and facilitating policy development to optimize the agricultural and forest use of Vermont lands.


This grant is currently closed for applications. Check back in fall 2024 for the next round, which will be the fiscal year 2025 cycle. Below is information about the most recent round. Many aspects of the application will stay the same but the award amounts, funds available, timeline, process, eligibility, and application questions are all subject to change. 


## **Grant Overview**

- Award amounts $15,000 - $50,000

- Project types:

    - **Market development** – professionalizing a marketing and/or branding approach to new or expanded markets; hiring a professional marketing/branding contractor to develop strategy and/or content; implementing the strategy and/or content developed by the contractor (e.g., branding, website, or social media development) 

    - **Research and development** – testing new systems or technology 

    - **Infrastructure development** – project-specific planning, permitting, engineering or architectural plans; building and equipment costs, including for labor and/or energy efficiency enhancements, such as lighting, refrigeration/cooling, heat pumps, solar panels, low-energy water management, ventilation systems, and/or energy generation; may include equipment installation and/or technical assistance costs 

    - **Workforce training and development** – technical skill training for staff, business management training, and/or business succession planning, including hiring a consultant to support any of these processes 

- Grant recipients must provide matching funds at a 100% (one-to-one) rate using cash (e.g., funds in the bank, paid staff labor hours) or a combination of cash and in-kind items (e.g., businesses time contributed to project, use of equipment, donated goods, pro bono services, volunteer labor) that the grantee organization has a from other sources. Match sources must be identified by the time of application submission and commitments in place by the time of grant agreement signing. Matching funds may not be sourced from other federal funding opportunities. Under limited circumstances, the matching requirement may be reduced or waived for applicants who demonstrate a clear need for this accommodation.




The mission of the Vermont Working Lands Enterprise Initiative is to strengthen and grow the economies, cultures, and communities of Vermont's working landscape. The Working Lands Enterprise Board achieves this by making essential, catalytic investments in critical leverage points of the Vermont farm and forest economy, and facilitating policy development to optimize the agricultural and forest use of Vermont lands.

This grant is currently closed for applications. Check back in fall 2024 for the next round, which will be the fiscal year 2025 cycle. Below is information about the most recent round. Many aspects of the application will stay the same but the award amounts, funds available, timeline, process, eligibility, and application questions are all subject to change. 

Grant Overview
- Award amounts $15,000 - $50,000
- Project types:
    - Market development – professionalizing a marketing and/or branding approach to new or expanded markets; hiring a professional marketing/branding contractor to develop strategy and/or content; implementing the strategy and/or content developed by the contractor (e.g., branding, website, or social media development) 
    - Research and development – testing new systems or technology 
    - Infrastructure development – project-specific planning, permitting, engineering or architectural plans; building and equipment costs, including for labor and/or energy efficiency enhancements, such as lighting, refrigeration/cooling, heat pumps, solar panels, low-energy water management, ventilation systems, and/or energy generation; may include equipment installation and/or technical assistance costs 
    - Workforce training and development – technical skill training for staff, business management training, and/or business succession planning, including hiring a consultant to support any of these processes 
- Grant recipients must provide matching funds at a 100% (one-to-one) rate using cash (e.g., funds in the bank, paid staff labor hours) or a combination of cash and in-kind items (e.g., businesses time contributed to project, use of equipment, donated goods, pro bono services, volunteer labor) that the grantee organization has a from other sources. Match sources must be identified by the time of application submission and commitments in place by the time of grant agreement signing. Matching funds may not be sourced from other federal funding opportunities. Under limited circumstances, the matching requirement may be reduced or waived for applicants who demonstrate a clear need for this accommodation.


- Value-added food businesses that source at least 50% of raw ingredients from Vermont OR are applying for a Working Lands grant to significantly increase use of ingredients sourced from Vermont are eligible. • Businesses that sell “unique food products” are not eligible unless the business will use grant funds to increase production of raw ingredients in Vermont. o Unique food products are processed foods made from ingredients that are not regularly produced in Vermont or are not available in sufficient quantities to meet production requirements. 
- Secondary forestry businesses are eligible if at least 50% of the wood they use is grown in the Northeast OR the Working Lands grant project will significantly increase use of wood sourced from the Northeast.
- Applicant organizations/businesses must be based in Vermont. Businesses or organizations headquartered outside of VT may be eligible if the project or service being proposed is 100% focused on Vermont’s working landscape and businesses. Please contact Clare.Salerno@vermont.gov to discuss eligibility for out-of-state applicants.
- All structures are eligible (e.g., Partnerships, Limited Liability Corporations, Sole Proprietorships, Cooperatives, Corporations, S Corporations, L3Cs, B Corporations, and/or non-profits that are involved in the support of production of agriculture and/or forest products).
- All legally incorporated enterprises must be registered with the VT Secretary of State. Sole proprietors using a business name other than their own name must have their assumed business name (formerly known as a trade name) registered with the Secretary of State. 
- Previous Working Lands Standard Business and COVID-19 Response Business Development grantees are eligible to re-apply for funding during Fiscal Year 2024. Previous Working Lands Supply Chain Impact, Market Level Infrastructure Impact, ARPA Primary Producer, or Meat Slaughter and Processing Development Grants are eligible to apply for further Working Lands funding after three years, meaning that Fiscal Year 2021 and earlier grantees are eligible to apply this year.


- Working Lands Business Grant 2024 Presentation Power Point
- Working Lands Business Development Directory

Trials

Buildings

Construction

Fencing

Greenhouse

High Tunnel

HVAC

Lighting

Repairs

Storage

- Grant recipients must provide matching funds at a 100% (one-to-one) rate using cash (e.g., funds in the bank, paid staff labor hours) or a combination of cash and in-kind items (e.g., businesses time contributed to project, use of equipment, donated goods, pro bono services, volunteer labor) that the grantee organization has received from other sources. Match sources must be identified by the time of application submission and commitments in place by the time of grant agreement signing. Matching funds may not be sourced from other federal funding opportunities. Under limited circumstances, the matching requirement may be reduced or waived for applicants who demonstrate a clear need for this accommodation.
- Match waiver or reduction request: • In budget table, enter amount of match you can realistically commit to (if full waiver requested, enter $0) • Explain why match waiver is needed at this time


How to Apply
1. Review the Request for Pre-applications for the complete details on eligible projects/applicants and the pre-application process.
2. Register in WebGrants (may take up to two business days).
3. Visit the Working Lands application frequently asked questions for resources and to get support on your application. 
4. Complete your pre-application in WebGrants using our Application Guide by January 19, 2024.
5. If invited back to final application round, complete your final application. Use the final application Request for Applications (linked here when available) for complete details. 

## **Grant Overview**

- Award amounts $50,000 - $250,000

- Project focus areas can include any of the following. Any project should either benefit the applicant and additional organizations or enable applicant's reach to new or larger markets (for example, product aggregation, co- branding, vertical or&#x2004;horizontal efficiencies)

    - **Market development** – professionalizing a marketing and/or branding approach to new or expanded markets; hiring a professional marketing/branding contractor to develop strategy and/or content; implementing the strategy and/or content developed by the contractor (e.g., branding, website, or social media development) 

    - **Research and development** – testing new systems or technology 

    - **Infrastructure development** – project-specific planning, permitting, engineering or architectural plans; building and equipment costs, including for labor and/or energy efficiency enhancements, such as lighting, refrigeration/cooling, heat pumps, solar panels, low-energy water management, ventilation systems, and/or energy generation; may include equipment installation and/or technical assistance costs 

    - **Workforce training and development** – technical skill training for staff, business management training, and/or business succession planning, including hiring a consultant to support any of these processes 

- Grant recipients must provide matching funds at a 100% (one-to-one) rate using cash (e.g., funds in the bank, paid staff labor hours) or a combination of cash and in-kind items (e.g., businesses time contributed to project, use of equipment, donated goods, pro bono services, volunteer labor) that the grantee organization has received from other sources. Match sources must be identified by the time of application submission and commitments in place by the time of grant agreement signing. Matching funds may not be sourced from other federal funding opportunities. Under limited circumstances, the matching requirement may be reduced or waived for applicants who demonstrate a clear need for this accommodation.

- Up to $786,200 is available to award in this grant round.

    - Working Lands Blog posts about past Supply Chain Impact grants:[Hillside Homestead](https://workinglands.vermont.gov/blog/hillsidehomestead)

    - [Gevry Firewood](https://workinglands.vermont.gov/blog/gevryfirewood)

    - [Center for an Agricultural Economy](https://workinglands.vermont.gov/blog/cae)

    - [Global Village Foods](https://workinglands.vermont.gov/blog/globalvillagefoods)

    - [Tree House Hardwoods](https://workinglands.vermont.gov/blog/treehousehardwoods)

    - [Jasper Hill Creamery](https://workinglands.vermont.gov/blog/jasper-hill-creamery-fy21-supply-chain-impact-grant-profile)



Grant Overview
- Award amounts $50,000 - $250,000
- Project focus areas can include any of the following. Any project should either benefit the applicant and additional organizations or enable applicant's reach to new or larger markets (for example, product aggregation, co- branding, vertical or horizontal efficiencies)
    - Market development – professionalizing a marketing and/or branding approach to new or expanded markets; hiring a professional marketing/branding contractor to develop strategy and/or content; implementing the strategy and/or content developed by the contractor (e.g., branding, website, or social media development) 
    - Research and development – testing new systems or technology 
    - Infrastructure development – project-specific planning, permitting, engineering or architectural plans; building and equipment costs, including for labor and/or energy efficiency enhancements, such as lighting, refrigeration/cooling, heat pumps, solar panels, low-energy water management, ventilation systems, and/or energy generation; may include equipment installation and/or technical assistance costs 
    - Workforce training and development – technical skill training for staff, business management training, and/or business succession planning, including hiring a consultant to support any of these processes 
- Grant recipients must provide matching funds at a 100% (one-to-one) rate using cash (e.g., funds in the bank, paid staff labor hours) or a combination of cash and in-kind items (e.g., businesses time contributed to project, use of equipment, donated goods, pro bono services, volunteer labor) that the grantee organization has received from other sources. Match sources must be identified by the time of application submission and commitments in place by the time of grant agreement signing. Matching funds may not be sourced from other federal funding opportunities. Under limited circumstances, the matching requirement may be reduced or waived for applicants who demonstrate a clear need for this accommodation.
- Up to $786,200 is available to award in this grant round.
    - Working Lands Blog posts about past Supply Chain Impact grants:Hillside Homestead
    - Gevry Firewood
    - Center for an Agricultural Economy
    - Global Village Foods
    - Tree House Hardwoods
    - Jasper Hill Creamery

- All structures are eligible (e.g., Partnerships, Limited Liability Corporations, Sole Proprietorships, Cooperatives, Corporations, S Corporations, L3Cs, B Corporations, and/or non-profits that are involved in the support of production of agriculture and/or forest products).
- All legally incorporated enterprises must be based in Vermont and registered with the Secretary of State. Sole proprietors using a business name other than their own name must have their assumed business name (formerly known as a trade name) registered with the Secretary of State. 
- Businesses or organizations headquartered outside of VT may be eligible if the project or service being proposed is 100% focused on Vermont’s working landscape and businesses. Please contact Clare.Salerno@vermont.gov to discuss eligibility for out-of-state applicants. 
- Applicants must be in compliance with all state regulations (i.e. water quality, taxes) and in good standing with the State of Vermont.
- Previous recipients of Working Lands Business Enhancement Grants, Service Provider Grants, or Producer Association Grants are eligible to apply for the Supply Chain Impact Grant this year.
- Previous recipients of past Supply Chain/Market Level Impact Grants or the ARPA-Funded Primary Producer Impact Grant are eligible to re-apply three years after receiving their previous grant, meaning FY21 and earlier grantees can re-apply this year.
- Businesses who have been in operation prior to January 2020 and that are primary producers of farm or forest products may choose to apply for the ARPA-Funded Primary Producer Impact Grant instead of this Supply Chain Impact Grant. The grant dollar amounts and the eligible costs are the same for both grants.

- Grant recipients must provide matching funds at a 100% (one-to-one) rate using cash (e.g., funds in the bank, paid staff labor hours) or a combination of cash and in-kind items (e.g., businesses time contributed to project, use of equipment, donated goods, pro bono services, volunteer labor) that the grantee organization has received from other sources. Match sources must be identified by the time of application submission and commitments in place by the time of grant agreement signing. Matching funds may not be sourced from other federal funding opportunities. Under limited circumstances, the matching requirement may be reduced or waived for applicants who demonstrate a clear need for this accommodation.

Jennifer Dean

Lakewinds Organic Field Fund­ (LOFF) is a grant program dedicated to making an impact on local farming and organic food by furthering the development and sustainability of farms in the region. Supporting local and organic farms is key to Lakewind's mission. Organic farms and producers are part of Lakewind's ongoing effort to build a local food system that values the&#x2004;financial health of smaller scale agriculture, soil health, environmental responsibility, and the desires of our owners for high quality, organic food.


The goal of Lakewinds Organic Field Fund (LOFF) is to support local farmers in a variety of ways, including helping to:

- Improve packing sheds and other facilities

- Purchase equipment and tools

- Financially support the process of transitioning a farm to organic

- Make purchases that increase farm productivity or efficiency

- Undertake projects that improve soil health

- Take on other projects that benefit the farm



Lakewinds Organic Field Fund­ (LOFF) is a grant program dedicated to making an impact on local farming and organic food by furthering the development and sustainability of farms in the region. Supporting local and organic farms is key to Lakewind's mission. Organic farms and producers are part of Lakewind's ongoing effort to build a local food system that values the financial health of smaller scale agriculture, soil health, environmental responsibility, and the desires of our owners for high quality, organic food.

The goal of Lakewinds Organic Field Fund (LOFF) is to support local farmers in a variety of ways, including helping to:
- Improve packing sheds and other facilities
- Purchase equipment and tools
- Financially support the process of transitioning a farm to organic
- Make purchases that increase farm productivity or efficiency
- Undertake projects that improve soil health
- Take on other projects that benefit the farm

Funding is available for the following types of project proposals:
1. Organic certification
2. Transitioning a conventional farm to organic
3. Any type of project that helps a farm scale its offerings
4. Any type of project that helps a farm improve efficiency or effectiveness

LOFF will not provide funding for:
- Political or religious programs
- Non-profit organizations
- General operating or marketing expenses
- Endowment funds
- Scholarships
- Fundraising events
- Proposals that do not address organic farming issues

LOFF gives preference to farmers located in Minnesota, northern Iowa, and western Wisconsin.

- Grant application process and criteria
- Financial Statement and Balance Sheet Template (.xls)
- Accepted File Formats and Guides
- LOFF Project Budget Template (.xlsx)
- Application Preview

Farmers Market

Air Quality

Landscape

Soil Health

Wildlife & Pollinator Habitat

Certified Grassfed

Cover Crops

Notification
If a project is funded, applicants will be notified and funds awarded by mid-March, 2023. Awarded funds will be paid out in full at the time of announcement. If a project or grant contains any special conditions, no monies are disbursed until those conditions have been met.
Funding levels
Lakewinds requests proposals which have objectives that are realistically achievable with a modest level of funding. LOFF has a maximum grant limit of $8,000 per farm each year.
Multi-year projects
LOFF acknowledges the importance of conducting long-term research to verify experimental results. The LOFF committee will consider funding multi-year projects, but cannot guarantee funding for any project beyond a single year. Submission of an interim report and new proposal is required to be considered for continued funding in subsequent years.
Organic Field Fund Proposal Requirements
In order to fairly evaluate grant proposals, all submissions should follow the requirements as stated below. Proposals that surpass the page limit or otherwise do not meet these requirements will not be considered for funding.
References and curricula vitae (CVs) may be uploaded as attachments to the proposal. CVs are limited to no more than two pages each.
The successful application will provide a clear rationale for the project and demonstrate a significant need for the proposed project. It is important that the objectives for your project be clear, well-structured, and succinct. Demonstrate why your project is necessary, present measurable outcomes, and explain specifically what you hope to accomplish.

Eligible producers or legal entities must submit a complete Form FSA-1140 (FSA-1140-Spanish) MASC Application to any FSA county office by Jan. 8, 2025. Additionally, instructions for FSA-1140 (Instrucciones para FSA-1140) are available. FSA staff at your local USDA Service Center will work with you to file your application.

The Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops (MASC) program provides financial assistance to specialty crop producers to help them expand domestic markets or develop new markets for their crops. 

MASC helps specialty crop producers offset higher marketing costs related to:

- Tenderness and perishability of specialty crops like fruits, vegetables, floriculture, nursery crops and herbs;

- Specialized handling and transport equipment with temperature and humidity control;

- Packaging to prevent damage; 

- Moving perishables to market quickly; and

- Higher labor costs. 




The Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops (MASC) program provides financial assistance to specialty crop producers to help them expand domestic markets or develop new markets for their crops. 
MASC helps specialty crop producers offset higher marketing costs related to:
- Tenderness and perishability of specialty crops like fruits, vegetables, floriculture, nursery crops and herbs;
- Specialized handling and transport equipment with temperature and humidity control;
- Packaging to prevent damage; 
- Moving perishables to market quickly; and
- Higher labor costs. 


MASC covers the following commercially marketed specialty crops grown in the US:
- Fruits (fresh, dried);
- Vegetables (including dry edible beans and peas, mushrooms, and vegetable seed);
- Tree nuts;
- Nursery crops, Christmas trees, and floriculture;
- Culinary and medicinal herbs and spices; and
- Honey, hops, maple sap, tea, turfgrass, and grass seed.
Common examples of specialty crops can be found on USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service’s specialty crop definition webpage. 
Eligible producers or legal entities must:
- Have an average adjusted gross income (AGI) of less than $900,000 for tax years 2021, 2022, and 2023, unless the producer or legal entity’s average adjusted gross farm income is at least 75 percent of their average AGI;
- Be in the business of producing a specialty crop at the time of application and be entitled to an ownership share and share in the risk of producing a specialty crop that will be sold in calendar year 2025;
- Be a U.S. citizen, resident alien, partnership, corporation, limited liability company, or other organizational structure organized under state law, Indian Tribe or Tribal Organization, or a foreign person or foreign entity who meets certain eligibility requirements;
- Comply with the provisions of the “Highly Erodible Land and Wetland Conservation” regulations, often called the conservation compliance provisions; and
- Not have a controlled substance violation.


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

FSA will issue MASC payments after the end of the application period. If demand for MASC payments exceeds available funding, MASC payments may be prorated, and the payment limitation of $125,000 may be lowered. If additional funding is available after MASC payments are issued, FSA may issue an additional payment.
For established specialty crop growers, those who certify crop sales in 2023 or 2024, FSA will calculate MASC payments based on the producer’s total specialty crop sales for the calendar year elected by the producer. 
Payments for new producers will be based on their expected 2025 calendar year sales and must submit FSA-1141 (FSA-1141-Spanish), Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops (MASC) New Producer Expected Sales Worksheet.  Additionally, instructions for FSA-1140 (Instrucciones para FSA-1140) are available.


List of Agricultural Funding with Applications Closing Soon