Browse Ambrook’s collection of funding programs by Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KYDA)

Applications to administer this program are directed through the local County Agricultural Development Council. Following execution of the Legal Agreement, producer applications are made available to producers for a minimum of 15 business days. Producers apply using the Universal Producer Application developed by the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board, submitted to the local CAIP administrator for scoring and approval. Funds are disbursed to producers on a reimbursement basis, upon completion of the project. Direct questions to the Kentucky Office of Agricultural Policy (KOAP) at (502) 573-0282 or KOAP@ky.gov.

Kentucky Office of Agricultural Policy — Grants

The County Agricultural Incentives Program (CAIP) offers 11 incentive areas that provide Kentucky agricultural producers cost-share assistance on practices that increase net farm income and opportunities to try new/innovative technologies or systems that improve farm efficiency and productivity. CAIP is funded by the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund (KADF) and administered locally through each County Agricultural Development Council.



The program shall be open to all county producers and shall not be tied to participation in any organization. An application shall be accepted if the applicant's farm is located in the county and the cost-share will be used in the county, even if the Farm Serial Number (FSN) is registered in another county. A Universal Producer Application from an individual without a Social Security Number (SSN), Farm Serial Number (FSN), and signature shall be considered incomplete. Counties may choose to limit eligible producers, members of their household and FSNs to receive funding every other year.

Producers must be 18 years of age or older at the time of application. Producers must have a completed Kentucky Agriculture Water Quality Act (AWQA) plan (the complete plan or a self-certification form) for the farm receiving CAIP funding. Producers shall not receive more than $5,000 statewide per producer per program year.

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

Cost Share

Buildings

Construction

Fencing

Greenhouse

High Tunnel

HVAC

Irrigation

Lighting

Repairs

Storage

Water Quality

Waterway Protection

Wetland Conservation

Certification

Distribution

Diversification

Events

Trade Show

Certified Organic

Trade Relief

Infrastructure

Disaster Relief

Emergency

CAIP provides cost-share across 11 incentive areas (such as farm infrastructure, fencing and on-farm water, innovative agriculture systems, and value-added & marketing). Producer maximums are set annually in the Incentive Area Guidelines. Funds are disbursed on a reimbursement basis upon completion of the project. Each producer who receives $600 or more shall be supplied an IRS Form 1099. The statewide minimum scoring threshold is 44 (a county may raise it).

Apply through a participating Kentucky lender who prepares and submits the loan application to KAFC. For more information, contact Bill McCloskey at the Kentucky Office of Agricultural Policy, (502) 382-6093 or kafc@ky.gov.

Bill McCloskey

Chelsea Smither

KAFC Loan Programs Manager

Alandria Whittemore

Rebecca Besok

The Agricultural Infrastructure Loan Program (AILP), offered by the Kentucky Agricultural Finance Corporation (KAFC), assists Kentucky agricultural producers by providing them access to below-market financing for the acquisition, renovation, and construction of agricultural structures that enhance the profitability of their farming operations.



For borrowers showing eligibility, maximum KAFC participation is $250,000 or 50% of the project, whichever is less. Household and/or operation may have multiple KAFC loans but is limited to an aggregate balance of $250,000 across all programs (excluding the Agriculture Processing Loan Program). The borrower must receive at least 20% of gross income from farming for the previous two years (evidenced by federal income tax returns), be a Kentucky resident, and the project must be located on property in Kentucky.

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

Loan

Water Management

The participating lender must be a financial institution with offices in Kentucky, and the lead lender prepares and submits the loan application. The interest rate on the KAFC portion is fixed at 2% a.p.r. for the life of the loan (KAFC may adjust the rate on new loans as market conditions change). The lender services the loan for no more than 0.75% (75 basis points). Maximum KAFC loan term is 15 years or the useful life of the asset (loans secured by real estate may be amortized over 25 years with a 15-year balloon). There is no prepayment penalty. Construction projects must commence within six months of loan approval and be completed within eighteen months. Eligible projects include aquaculture, beef, dairy, equine, grain, poultry, swine, and tobacco facilities, plus tiling and water irrigation/pivot systems. Operating or refinancing loans are not eligible.

Work with a participating Kentucky lender, who prepares and submits the KAFC application. KAFC now takes applications through its online database (contact KAFC@ky.gov). Deadlines are three weeks before the monthly KAFC board meeting.

Deadline text on the page: Rolling. 'The KAFC meets monthly to review and approve loan applications.' Applications are due three weeks before each board meeting. 'Loan applications should now be submitted through KAFC's new online database.'

A Kentucky Agricultural Finance Corporation participation loan for companies and individuals that add value to Kentucky-grown agricultural commodities through further processing. It covers equipment, new or expanded facilities, renovations and permanent working capital. KAFC lends up to 50% of the project, to a maximum of $250,000, at a fixed 2% alongside a participating Kentucky lender, who prepares and submits the application.



- Companies and individuals adding value to Kentucky-grown agricultural commodities through further processing.
- 'Project must be located on property in Kentucky.'
- Must borrow through a participating lender with offices in Kentucky.
- A three-year business plan 'showing an emphasis on serving the agricultural community'. Start-ups may need a feasibility study.
- Credit scores below 600 (or no score) go to the Loan Review Committee. Not eligible: operating or refinancing loans.

KAFC portion fixed at 2% a.p.r., with lender servicing up to 0.75%. Maximum term 15 years or the asset's useful life; real estate may amortize over 25 years with a 15-year balloon. Secured by fixed assets plus a personal guarantee. No prepayment penalty. Construction must start within 6 months and finish within 18 months.

Published amounts: Guidelines (APLP Revised: November 2025): 'maximum KAFC participation will be $250,000 or 50% of the project, whichever is less.' KAFC portion 'fixed at 2% a.p.r. for the life of the loan', plus lender servicing up to 0.75%. APLP is excluded from the $250,000 aggregate cap on KAFC loans.

Apply through a participating Kentucky lender. Contact Bill McCloskey at the Kentucky Office of Agricultural Policy, (502) 382-6093 or kafc@ky.gov.

The Diversification through Entrepreneurship in Agribusiness Loan Program (DEALP), offered by the Kentucky Agricultural Finance Corporation (KAFC), is designed to assist agri-entrepreneurs with the purchase, establishment, or expansion of a business that sells agricultural products or services to farmers or consumers.



Eligible applicants are agri-entrepreneurs and agribusinesses that sell agricultural products or services to farmers or consumers.
- KAFC will loan up to 50% of the project cost, not to exceed $250,000. If the applicant has existing agricultural debt with the participating lender and/or FSA, that debt can be used as match so KAFC can participate up to 100% of project costs.
- Priority consideration is given to borrowers with agricultural education and/or experience in agriculture.
- Borrower must be a Kentucky resident, and the project must be located on property in Kentucky.
- A household and/or operation may have multiple KAFC loans but is limited to an aggregate balance of $250,000 in all programs, excluding the Agricultural Processing Loan Program.
- Eligible projects: equipment purchases; facilities; funds to invest in a partnership, LLC or other agribusiness structure (the applicant must receive equity equal to the investment, and the business must show a positive gain in net worth over the past five years); permanent working capital; real estate; other agricultural investments at the discretion of the KAFC Board.

Marketing

1. Participating lender must be a financial institution with offices in Kentucky; the lead lender prepares and submits the loan application.
2. Interest rate on the KAFC portion is fixed at 2% a.p.r. for the life of the loan (KAFC may adjust the rate on new loans); the lender services the KAFC participated loan for no more than 0.75% (75 basis points).
3. Maximum KAFC loan term shall not exceed 15 years or the useful life of the asset; loans secured by real estate may be amortized over 25 years with a 15-year balloon.
4. Loan must be secured with both fixed assets and the personal guarantee of the borrower.
5. Borrower submits a three-year business plan; startup ventures may be required to submit a feasibility study.
6. Borrower must be involved in KCARD's mentorship program.
7. Construction projects must commence within six months and be completed within eighteen months of loan approval; KAFC transfers loan proceeds when the project is satisfactorily completed.
8. There is no prepayment penalty on the KAFC participated loan, and only expenses incurred after KAFC receives the DEAL application are eligible.
9. No borrower may participate in this program for more than 15 years.
10. Applicants with credit scores below 600 or no credit score are reviewed by the KAFC Loan Review Committee; a credit report is required.

Apply through a participating Kentucky lender. Contact Bill McCloskey, (502) 382-6093 or kafc@ky.gov.

The Horticulture Incentives Loan Program (HILP), offered by the Kentucky Agricultural Finance Corporation (KAFC), assists specialty crop producers with access to working capital.


KAFC will loan up to 50% of the project cost, not to exceed $250,000. If the applicant has existing agricultural debt with the participating lender and/or FSA, that debt can be used as match so that KAFC can participate up to 100% of project costs; otherwise KAFC is limited to 50%.



The Horticulture Incentives Loan Program (HILP), offered by the Kentucky Agricultural Finance Corporation (KAFC), assists specialty crop producers with access to working capital.

KAFC will loan up to 50% of the project cost, not to exceed $250,000. If the applicant has existing agricultural debt with the participating lender and/or FSA, that debt can be used as match so that KAFC can participate up to 100% of project costs; otherwise KAFC is limited to 50%.

- Specialty crop producers seeking working capital.
- Borrower must be a Kentucky resident, evidenced by a Kentucky driver's license or other valid documentation.
- The primary operation must be located in Kentucky.
- Priority consideration is given to borrowers with agricultural education or experience in agriculture.
- Must borrow through a participating lender that is a financial institution with offices in Kentucky.
- Must have a commitment from the participating lender to help capitalize the initial investments in the business plan.
- Must submit a business plan showing a reasonable return and the ability to repay the KAFC debt.
- New vegetable producers must have a contract with a buyer for the produce; this is waived after three years of vegetable production.
- Must carry NAP, Whole-Farm Revenue Protection, Micro Farm, or another KAFC Board-approved specialty crop insurance.
- Loan must be secured by real estate, fixed assets, or equipment with a personal guarantee so that the combined loan-to-value is no greater than 85%.
- If the operation is an entity, all partners must be listed as co-applicants.
- A household or operation may hold no more than a $250,000 balance in the Horticulture Incentives Loan Program.
- Borrowers are limited to 10 years of lifetime eligibility in the program.
- Applicants with a credit score below 600 or no credit score are reviewed by the KAFC Loan Review Committee before a funding recommendation.

Business Plan

Cash Rent

Refinancing

Transition

Succession

Legal & Finance

The interest rate on the KAFC portion is fixed at 2% a.p.r. for the life of the loan; the lender services the loan for no more than 0.75% (75 basis points). The KAFC maturity date is December 31st of the year the application was submitted. Borrowers are limited to 10-year lifetime eligibility of the program and to a $250,000 balance in HILP. The loan must be secured with real estate, fixed assets, or equipment (and the specialty crop), with a combined loan-to-value no greater than 85%. Borrowers must submit a business plan and carry NAP, Whole-Farm Revenue Protection, Micro Farm insurance, or other approved specialty crop insurance; new vegetable producers must have a contract with a buyer (waived after 3 years of production). There is no prepayment penalty. Eligible projects include seasonal working capital and other agricultural investments at the discretion of the KAFC Board.

Through a participating Kentucky lender, who submits the application in KAFC's online database (contact KAFC@ky.gov). Monthly board review.

Deadline text on the page: Rolling, with monthly KAFC board review. One LFAVLP loan ($250,000, Boyle County) was approved at the Feb. 13, 2026 meeting (KAFC press release).

A Kentucky Agricultural Finance Corporation participation loan for licensed Kentucky veterinarians who want to build, expand, equip or buy into a practice serving large and food animal producers. KAFC lends up to 50% of project costs, to a maximum of $250,000, at a fixed 2% through a participating Kentucky lender. Existing student debt can count as match. Priority goes to vets serving underserved areas.



- 'Documentation of valid license to practice veterinary medicine in Kentucky'.
- Kentucky resident; project located in Kentucky.
- Aggregate KAFC balance limit of $250,000 across programs, excluding APLP.
- 'Priority consideration will be given to borrowers who will be providing veterinary care to underserved areas'.
- A business plan is required, except for requests under $50,000, which need an explanation of how the asset will help serve producers.

2% fixed on the KAFC portion, with lender servicing up to 0.75%. Maximum term 15 years or useful life; real estate may amortize over 25 years with a 15-year balloon. Secured by fixed assets and a personal guarantee.

Published amounts: Guidelines (LAVLP Revised: November 2025): 'KAFC will loan up to 50% of the project costs, not to exceed $250,000.' Existing student loans can count as match, allowing up to 100% of project cost. KAFC portion fixed at 2% a.p.r. plus lender servicing up to 0.75%.

County funds only: apply to the county agricultural development council(s), which prioritize the request and forward it to the KADB. State funds only: apply to KOAP. For both, apply to the county council(s) and to the KADB at the same time. Submit digitally (contact a KADF Project Manager, 502-573-0282 or KOAP@ky.gov) or by mail to the Kentucky Office of Agricultural Policy, 107 Corporate Drive, Frankfort, KY 40601. Use the 2026 KADF Project Application Request for Funds and the Project Budget Template.

Deadline text on the page: Monthly: 'Project proposals received in the Kentucky Office of Agricultural Policy (KOAP) by the last Friday of the month will be referred to the board’s application review committee at the following month’s KADB meeting.' 'All applications expire after 3 months from the date stamp received in our office.' KADF page: 'The KADB meets the third Friday of the month'.

Alexis Scheidt

KADF Regional Manager

Savanna Hill

Rachel Cowherd

Jesse Moore

The Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund's main project program. Farmers, agribusinesses and nonprofits can request county and/or state tobacco-settlement money for projects that raise farm income, such as capital improvements, equipment, farmers markets, greenhouses and permitted kitchens. For-profit applicants can get up to 50% of new project costs for capital improvements and equipment. Nonprofits can get grants for regional, community or statewide projects that serve Kentucky farmers. The Kentucky Agricultural Development Board decides monthly, and county councils prioritize requests for county funds.



- For-profit applicants: eligible expenses are 'limited to capital improvements and equipment'. Match must be new project expenses paid in cash; in-kind products, services and labor are not eligible match.
- Non-profit regional or community applicants (e.g. farmers markets, high school greenhouses, permitted kitchens) and non-profit statewide organizations that provide marketing, distribution, educational or technical assistance to Kentucky farmers.
- 'Make sure the organization/entity formally exists and is registered with the Secretary of State.'
- Projects should show economic viability, become self-sustaining, and have a significant impact on farm income for multiple producers.
- Farmers Markets track: the applicant must be 'an organization (an entity that has a tax ID number and is not an individual)' and needs a high-priority county commitment.

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

Grant

Cost-reimbursement for receipts dated after KOAP receives the application; no cash purchases. Loans over $25,000 require a security agreement, equipment loans require a UCC filing, and all loans are serviced by KAFC. Annual progress reports are required. The recipient must request a no-cost extension 60 days before expiry if needed.

Published amounts: For-profit applicants: 'may apply for funding up to 50% of the new project costs incurred after the application was received', limited to capital improvements and equipment with a cash match. Non-profit regional/community applicants: grants up to 50% (e.g. 'farmers markets, high school greenhouses, and permitted kitchens'). Non-profit statewide applicants: grants for new project costs. Farmers Markets track: 50% cost-reimbursement, 'no more than $250,000 in state funds', and a county lifetime cap of $250,000 since 2001. 'Projects approved for any type of loan will require personal guarantees'.

Work with a participating Kentucky lender: the lead lender prepares and submits the KAFC loan application, and loan applications should now be submitted through KAFC's new online database (questions: kafc@ky.gov). The legacy BFLP Loan Application is still posted.

BFLP assists individuals with farming experience who desire to develop, expand, or buy into a farming operation. Eligible projects include purchases of livestock, equipment, agriculture facilities, and real estate; securing working capital; or investing into a partnership or LLC.



1. A KAFC Beginning Farmer will be defined as someone who: 
- Has not filed a Schedule F for more than 10 years (including any member of the household; next-generation applicants in the same household are referred to the Loan Review and Compliance Committee) 
- Has participated in the business operation of a farm for at least three years c. Will be substantially participating in the proposed operation 
2. For Borrowers meeting the above definition, KAFC will loan up to $250,000, or 50% of the project cost. If applicant has existing agriculture debt with the participating lender and/or FSA, this debt can be used as match such that KAFC can participate up to 100% of the project costs, not to exceed $250,000. If there is no current debt with the participating lender and/or FSA to be matched, KAFC will be limited to 50% of the project costs, up to $250,000. 
3. Annual, off-farm, household income must be less than $175,000, as evidenced by three year’s tax returns based on W-2 income. Income derived from ag-related occupations may be excluded from this calculation (as determined by the board). 
4. Borrower must be a Kentucky resident, as evidence by a Kentucky driver’s license or other valid documentation. 
5. Project must be located on property in Kentucky. 
6. Gross farm income (excluding rental income) generated by the operation (the entire operation proposed by the applicant, including property to be purchased or improved) should be at least 75% of the annual payments for any debts associated with the real estate purchase or improvement(s). (If the gross farm income is less than 100% of the annual payments, an FSA Guarantee may be required.) 
7. Household and/or operation may have multiple KAFC loans but is limited to an aggregate balance of $250,000 in all programs, excluding the Agriculture Processing Loan Program. 

Eligible Projects: 
- Agricultural facilities
- Funds to invest in a farm partnership, LLC or other farm business structure
    - Borrower must receive equity equal to the investment being provided 
    - Business into which borrower is investing must show a positive gain in net worth over the past five years 
- Equipment purchases 
- Livestock purchases 
- Permanent working capital with provisions to lower KAFC’s involvement each year.
- Real estate, up to 50%, this does not include residence 
- Other agricultural investments at the discretion of the KAFC board

- Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development 
- Kentucky Department of Agriculture
- BFLP Guidelines


Historically Underserved

1. Participating lender must be a financial institution with offices in Kentucky. 
2. Lead lender is required to prepare and submit the loan application. There must be a commitment by a participating lender who will work with the borrower to capitalize the initial investments outlined in the three-year business plan. The lender will continue to evaluate additional credit needs; however, any additional credit will be at the discretion of the lender and according to their normal underwriting policies. 
3. Interest rate on the KAFC portion of the loan will be fixed at 2% a.p.r. for the life of the loan. KAFC reserves the right to adjust the rate on any new loans as market conditions change. 
4. Lender must agree to service the KAFC participated loan for no more than 0.75% (75 basis points), for the life of the loan. This fee will be added to the KAFC rate to determine the blended rate. 
5. Maximum KAFC loan term shall not exceed 15 years or useful life of asset, collateralizing loans. Loans secured by real estate may be amortized over 25 years with a 15 year balloon. a. If the borrower meets all eligibility requirements of the FSA Down Payment Program, it may be used in conjunction with KAFC financing with up to a 20-year term and amortized over up to 30 years. 
6. Loan must be secured with both fixed assets and the personal guarantee of the borrower. 
7. Lender is encouraged to include KAFC as part of any FSA guarantee request or application. a. In most cases, FSA will waive the 1.5% guarantee fee when the Lender utilizes the KAFC BFLP. Please contact local FSA office for eligibility. 
8. KAFC will consider subordinating debt to participating lender. No future debt can be incurred on mortgaged property without notification of KAFC. 
9. Borrower must submit a three-year business plan (outline available) showing a reasonable return and an ability to retire the KAFC debt.
10. Borrower must be involved in KCARD's mentorship program; the lender completes the form in the mentor section of the application so that KCARD can provide the borrower with a mentor.
11. Borrower must acquire all relevant permits and the project must meet all required construction codes. Property must be in compliance with all environmental regulations. 
12. Construction projects must commence within six months of loan approval and must be completed within eighteen months of loan approval. 
13. Participating lender and/or borrower will provide interim financing during construction of project. KAFC will transfer loan proceeds upon satisfactory completion of project. 
14. Any principal and interest payments made by borrower will be shared pro-rata by lender and KAFC unless both parties agree to modified terms. There shall be no prepayment penalty on the KAFC participated loan. 
15. Only expenses incurred after the Beginning Farmer Loan Application has been received by KAFC will be eligible for consideration under this loan program.
16. KAFC shall review each application and supporting documentation; loan approval will be at the discretion of the KAFC board. 
17. The KAFC Loan Review Committee must review applicants with credit scores below 600 for evaluation and funding recommendation. 
18. Applications with a combined loan-to-value up to 85% may have a government guarantee, but it is not required. 
19. Applications with the approval and obligation of a government guarantee, shall not have a combined loan-to-value greater than 100%. 
20. Any application with a combined loan-to-value greater than 85% without a government guarantee will be referred to the KAFC Loan Review Committee for evaluation and recommendation.

Submit the Food Safety and Efficiency Application to KOAP by the last Friday of any month, as the original (unbound) or digitally through a KADF Project Manager. Questions: KOAP@ky.gov or 502-573-0282.

Deadline text on the page: 'All applications must be submitted to the Kentucky Office of Agricultural Policy no later than close of business on the last Friday of each month.' First-come-first-served until funds run out. Projects must be completed within one year of the legal agreement.

Sarah Charles

KADF Programs Manager

Reimburses Kentucky farm families, businesses and processors that handle Kentucky-grown food for 75% of the cost of food safety and efficiency consulting from an approved consultant, up to $3,750. It is a one-time lifetime award per household or business. Applications are taken monthly by the Kentucky Office of Agricultural Policy.



- 'Only one individual per household and/or business may apply for the Food Safety and Efficiency Incentives Program as a one-time lifetime limit, retroactive to 2022.'
- 'Applicants must process or handle Kentucky grown food product for human consumption.'
- Applicants must be located in Kentucky.
- Consulting must come from an approved Eligible Consultant (Appendix A lists meat/protein and produce consultants); other consultants must submit credentials.

Reimbursement of 75% of consulting costs, up to $3,750 in state and county funds per program year. Only expenses after the application is received count. Immediate-family purchases and cash receipts are not eligible. The applicant must show an improved food safety or efficiency plan at completion.

Published amounts: 'Applicants will be limited to 75% cost-reimbursement for the eligible expenditures not to exceed more than $3,750 in state and county funds within a program year (ex. Spend $5,000 and be reimbursed $3,750).'

Wineries must submit a grant application, label graphic files, and production cost estimates to the Kentucky Grape and Wine Council for consideration, and receive written confirmation of approval prior to purchasing labels. Direct inquiries and mail applications and forms to: The Kentucky Grape and Wine Council, c/o The Kentucky Department of Agriculture, 111 Corporate Drive, Frankfort, KY 40601, (502) 782-4117, tyler.madison@ky.gov.

Tyler Madison

The Kentucky Grape and Wine Council Wine Labels Cost-Share Grant is intended to assist licensed small farm wineries, defined by KRS 241.010(45), by reimbursing up to 50% of future approved label production costs for wines comprised of at least 75% Kentucky grown fruit. The funding&#x2004;will be distributed on a first come, first served basis. By offsetting label production costs on Kentucky grown wines, this grant aims to increase the number of these wines by decreasing the overall price per bottle, ultimately growing demand and resulting in vineyard expansion. Funding for this program is provided by the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund. This grant program is administered by the Kentucky Grape and Wine Council (KGWC), in collaboration with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture.



The Kentucky Grape and Wine Council Wine Labels Cost-Share Grant is intended to assist licensed small farm wineries, defined by KRS 241.010(45), by reimbursing up to 50% of future approved label production costs for wines comprised of at least 75% Kentucky grown fruit. The funding will be distributed on a first come, first served basis. By offsetting label production costs on Kentucky grown wines, this grant aims to increase the number of these wines by decreasing the overall price per bottle, ultimately growing demand and resulting in vineyard expansion. Funding for this program is provided by the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund. This grant program is administered by the Kentucky Grape and Wine Council (KGWC), in collaboration with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture.

A licensed Kentucky small farm winery (as defined by KRS 241.010(45)) may be reimbursed up to 50% of future approved label production. All label costs eligible for reimbursement must be for wines comprised of a minimum of 75% Kentucky grown fruit. Front labels must list 'Kentucky' as the designation of origin (which, by Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau law, requires a minimum of 75% of the fruit sourced originating from the state specified). Labels (front or back) must contain the Kentucky Proud logo (only Kentucky Proud members are allowed to utilize the Kentucky Proud logo).

Grants are awarded from January 1 – October 31. Wineries must submit a grant application and receive written confirmation of approval prior to purchasing wine labels; no expenses are eligible prior to KGWC's approval. KGWC provides a reimbursement cost share of 50% of approved label costs, distributed on a first come, first served basis with a limit of $1,000 per winery. Should funds remain after October 31, additional requests beyond the stated cap may receive consideration of further reimbursement (new caps determined by dividing remaining funds equally among eligible participants; rollover payouts only issued if new caps exceed $50 per participant). All reimbursement requests must be submitted to the KGWC within 60 days of purchase.

Complete the KADF Project Application. The county council(s) prioritize it and forward it to the KADB for the final decision. Include the KCARD-reviewed business plan and the meat-consultant summary, and answer the consultant's feedback before the Application Review Committee meeting.

Deadline text on the page: Monthly KADF project cycle: applications are due by the last Friday of the month for the next month's KADB review. Reauthorized for 2026 ('Meat Processors - Reauthorized for 2026. No changes.').

KADF money, as a forgivable loan covering up to 50% of eligible costs, to build a new USDA-certified meat processing facility or to expand or renovate an existing one, including equipment. State funds are capped at $250,000 per program year. A high-priority commitment of county funds from the facility's county is required. Custom-exempt processors are ineligible.



- Project must be a new USDA-certified meat processing facility, or an expansion or renovation of an existing USDA-certified facility.
- 'Applicants must obtain and maintain USDA processing certification for the duration of their agreement. Applicants who wish to remain a custom processing facility are ineligible for funding.'
- A formal business plan reviewed by KCARD or another third party, plus a consultation summary from an approved third-party meat consultant.
- A high-priority commitment of county funds from the facility's county.
- Match must be new project expenses or documented donated materials; land, in-kind services, labor and other KADF funds do not count.

50% cost-reimbursement as a forgivable loan. Only expenditures after KOAP receives the application count. Itemized receipts plus a cancelled check or card statement are required; no cash receipts.

Published amounts: 'Applicants will be limited to 50% cost-reimbursement for the eligible expenditures as a forgivable loan.' 'Applicants will be limited to no more than $250,000 in state funds, per program year.' KADF (state and county) cannot exceed 50% of total project cost.

Submit the 2026 KADF Project Application to KOAP by the last Friday of the month, as the original (unbound) or digitally through a KADF Project Manager, together with the county council funding request.

Deadline text on the page: 'Applications received in the Kentucky Office of Agricultural Policy (KOAP) by close of business on the last Friday of the month will be referred to the board’s application review committee at the following month’s KADB meeting.' Reauthorized for 2026.

KADF money for licensed Kentucky veterinarians who serve large and food animals. It pays for building, expanding or renovating a practice, buying into a practice, equipment and mobile-vet vehicles, and practice-efficiency consulting, with a $100,000 lifetime cap. County agricultural development council funds must be committed first. The state then matches up to 5:1 as a forgivable loan.



- 'Applicants must be licensed, practicing veterinarians that service large and/or food animals in Kentucky.'
- One individual per household and/or practice, unless funds are used to buy into a practice.
- 'Applicants must receive support (funds) from the county agricultural development council to be eligible for state funds.'
- Excluded: operating or refinancing loans, equipment used only for small animals, pharmaceuticals and animal health products.

Up to 75% cost-reimbursement. KADF (state and county) cannot exceed 75% of project cost. $100,000 lifetime limit. State funds are a forgivable loan over five years (three years with vehicles). Only expenditures after the application is received count.

Published amounts: 'Applicants will be limited to 75% cost-reimbursement for the eligible expenditures not to exceed more than $100,000 in state and county funds as a lifetime limit.' County support is required, with up to a 5:1 state/county match, and 'state funds offered as a forgivable loan over five years' (three years when motorized vehicles are included; vehicles capped at $60,000).

Apply through your county's NextGen administrative entity using the Producer Application it provides (KOAP posts only a sample). Administrators apply through the County Agricultural Development Council. County administrator contacts: CAIP/YAIP administrator map (https://uky-edu.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/basic/index.html?appid=f4a702497bde41abb378410c8f191d4c).

Deadline text on the page: Producer sign-up windows are set by each county administrator. KADB will not approve county program applications in December 2026; administrator applications received after the Oct 30 deadline go to January 2027 under 2027 guidelines. Program sunset: December 31, 2026.

A county-administered KADF cost-share program for Kentucky producers aged 18 to 40 with at least three years in an agricultural operation. It uses the same 11 incentive areas as CAIP, such as livestock genetics, fencing and water, farm infrastructure and on-farm energy. Awards are up to $5,000 a year with a $25,000 lifetime limit. Applicants need a 3-year business plan, an educational component and a mentor.



- 'Applicant shall be between the ages of 18 and 40.'
- At least three years in an agricultural operation as an owner, tenant or employee, proven with Schedule F returns or employer letters.
- Kentucky resident with an SSN and Farm Serial Number. Tenants need 5 years of landowner access permission. Employees need the landowner's written FSN permission, and seeding and capital projects are not eligible for employees.
- 3-year business plan, at least one educational component, and a mentor (UK Extension, a commodity group facilitator or another professional) who is not immediate family.
- One applicant per household. Applicants may take part in only one of CAIP, NextGen or YAIP in a program year.

Reimbursement after completion, following the 2026 CAIP Producer Guidelines & Responsibilities. Up to $5,000 per program year, $25,000 lifetime.

Published amounts: 'Eligible producers may receive up to $5,000 per program year.' '$25,000 lifetime limit.' 'Funding amount is determined by the county.' It uses the same 11 CAIP incentive areas and their cost-share percentages.

Fill out the application, making sure to complete everything on the checklist on the first page, and mail or email it to:

Johnathan Van Balen
Kentucky Department of Agriculture 
111 Corporate Drive 
Frankfort, KY 40601
Jonathan.VanBalen@ky.gov

Please apply for membership at www.kyproud.com.

Jonathan Van Balen

The Kentucky Department of Agriculture facilitates a number of grant opportunities for Kentucky farmers and other businesses that grow and help&#x2004;market Kentucky grown agricultural products. Sources for these investments include the United States Department of Agriculture, the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund, and General Funds from the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Each program has specific expectations, guidelines, award levels, and timelines. For more details on each funding area, select the program link or contact KDA staff for information.


Kentucky Proud members who have direct Kentucky farm impact may be eligible to receive up to 50% reimbursement for eligible advertising and marketing expenses.





The Kentucky Department of Agriculture facilitates a number of grant opportunities for Kentucky farmers and other businesses that grow and help market Kentucky grown agricultural products. Sources for these investments include the United States Department of Agriculture, the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund, and General Funds from the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Each program has specific expectations, guidelines, award levels, and timelines. For more details on each funding area, select the program link or contact KDA staff for information.

Kentucky Proud members who have direct Kentucky farm impact may be eligible to receive up to 50% reimbursement for eligible advertising and marketing expenses.



- Kentucky Proud members.
- Applicant must have direct Kentucky farm impact, meaning agricultural products bought, sold, grown, raised, produced, or sourced from Kentucky farms.
- Members with Supporter status are not eligible.
- Applicant must be age 18 or older.
- Applicant must not be delinquent in Kentucky state taxes.
- Applicant must comply with all laws and regulations, especially those on public health, food safety, and the accuracy and legality of advertising.

Farmers Market

Food Systems

Deadlines: 
Meetings take place the second Wednesday of each month. Applications that are incomplete or missing forms (survey for past POP participants, notarized affidavit, or EZ Vendor Registration Form) will not be considered for funding until these items are submitted. Applications are due the last day of the month to be considered at the next month’s meeting.

The grant maximum: 
Grants are awarded between January 1 and December 31 and cannot exceed 10 percent of the applicant’s reported direct Kentucky farm impact. The maximum award is $8,000. Grantees have 6 months from their application’s approval date to use funds. 
- Lifetime maximums are $36,000 beginning with the use of 2014 funds at the request of the KADB. 
- If you will not use your grant, or if you require a lower amount, you must inform KDA no later than 3 months after approval. If you do not, whatever amount you were originally approved for will be counted against your lifetime maximum. 

Your grant will be withheld if you are delinquent in state taxes. KDA reserves the right to audit the compliance, amend the guidelines, revoke the award, or interpret the intent of this grant at any time, without liability, at its sole discretion. All funds are first-come, first-served.

Fill out the PACE Donation Application and mail it with the required documents to KDA/PACE, 111 Corporate Drive, Frankfort, KY 40601. A PACE representative will then contact you. Questions: PACE Program Coordinator, 502-782-4131.

Deadline text on the page: Rolling donation applications. 'Please be mindful that the process to complete a donation takes 9 to 18 months.' Purchase rounds are not currently offered.

PACE Program Coordinator

Purchase of Agricultural Conservation Easement Program

Kentucky's state farmland-preservation program, created by the General Assembly in 1994. It holds perpetual agricultural conservation easements that keep farmland from being developed while the owner keeps ownership and the right to sell. PACE currently accepts only donated easements, which may carry tax benefits for the donor, rather than buying them. Over 31,500 acres on 200+ farms are protected.



- Kentucky farmland owners willing to donate a perpetual agricultural conservation easement.
- Before applying, review the PACE Welcome Packet and consult tax and legal advisors.
- Donors pay for the appraisal, title opinion and survey.

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

Easement

Perpetual agricultural conservation easement. The landowner keeps ownership and can sell or transfer title. The donation process takes 9 to 18 months.

Published amounts: No payment at present: donated easements only. Donors should 'expect an out of pocket expense' for an appraisal, title opinion and survey, and are told to 'Speak with your tax advisor and legal counsel on the benefits of donating an agricultural conservation easement'. Historically PACE bought development rights with NRCS FRPP/ACEP matching funds ('over 14 million dollars').

The organization applies through the County Agricultural Development Council using the Shared-Use Application. Farmers rent the equipment from the local organization.

Deadline text on the page: Applications go through the County Agricultural Development Council and are due to KOAP by the last Friday of the month. No county program approvals in December 2026; applications after the Oct 30 deadline roll to January 2027 under 2027 guidelines.

County Kentucky&#x2004;Agricultural Development Fund money helps broad-based community organizations, such as a county Farm Bureau or conservation district, buy equipment that local farmers can rent, for example no-till drills, bale wrappers, pasture renovators, lime spreaders, livestock handling equipment and horticulture equipment. KADF covers up to 75% of the purchase, and the organization sets rental fees, the same for members and non-members, that cover maintenance and replacement. Farmers don't apply: the local organization applies through the County Agricultural Development Council, and you rent the equipment from it.



County Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund money helps broad-based community organizations, such as a county Farm Bureau or conservation district, buy equipment that local farmers can rent, for example no-till drills, bale wrappers, pasture renovators, lime spreaders, livestock handling equipment and horticulture equipment. KADF covers up to 75% of the purchase, and the organization sets rental fees, the same for members and non-members, that cover maintenance and replacement. Farmers don't apply: the local organization applies through the County Agricultural Development Council, and you rent the equipment from it.

- 'Eligible applicants shall be limited to broad-based community organizations (e.g. County Farm Bureau or the County Conservation District).'
- Three written bids, equipment insurance and liability insurance, and a user-fee structure that is the same for members and non-members.

KADF share up to 75%. Future rental fees and trade-ins cannot count as match. Equipment disposed of within 3 years requires a pro-rated payback. Semi-annual reports are required.

Published amounts: 'Kentucky Agricultural Development Funds contributed to Shared-Use Equipment cannot exceed 75%, unless it is determined that a reduced match is needed for this program.' The council may lower the entity's match to no less than 25%.

Apply via the KDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program page. Contact Anne Harney at (502) 782-4102 or Anne.Harney@ky.gov.

Anne Harney

The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) is a USDA program that helps the Kentucky Department of Agriculture fund projects that enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops in the state and support specialty crop growers through marketing, education, and research.



Privately owned companies, small business owners, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, and quasi-government entities (including public universities) are eligible to apply. Applicants must reside in Kentucky, or their business or educational affiliation must be in Kentucky. The KDA will not award grant funds for projects that solely benefit a particular commercial product or provide profit to a single organization, institution, or individual.

Stewardship

Trials

For 2026, Kentucky anticipates receiving $413,908.66 in SCBGP funding. Matching funds are encouraged but not required.

Students apply through the county YAIP administrative entity using the Student Application it provides (KOAP posts a sample). County administrator map: https://uky-edu.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/basic/index.html?appid=f4a702497bde41abb378410c8f191d4c

Deadline text on the page: County-administered program year. Windows are set by the county administrator. Reauthorized for 2026.

A county-administered KADF cost-share program that reimburses Kentucky students for half the cost of their own agricultural projects, up to $1,500 a year. Examples are livestock, equipment and production inputs within the program's investment areas. Students must be at least 9 and enrolled in school, including home school. They need a 4-H or FFA mentor, six hours of education and a presentation or event.



- Enrolled in elementary, middle or high school, including home-schooled students.
- 'Applicant shall be at least 9 years at the time of application.'
- County resident, or a non-resident active in the county's youth programs.
- SSN required, plus parental consent if under 18.
- Mentor: a 4-H leader or Extension agent, or an FFA leader or school ag teacher.
- At least six hours of education, plus a presentation or a 4-H/FFA event.
- Individual projects only; school or organization projects are not eligible. Only one of CAIP, NextGen or YAIP per program year.

50/50 reimbursement after completion, up to $1,500 per program year. Proof of payment is required; no cash purchases. Breeding livestock needs health papers, and heifers need the Heifer Affidavit.

Published amounts: 'Eligible up to $1,500 maximum per program year on a pro-rated basis'. 'Eligible cost-share is on a 50/50 basis'.

See the KDA RFSI webpage or contact RFSI@ky.gov, (502) 573-0282.

Kentucky Department of Agriculture — RFSI Program

The Kentucky Department of Agriculture was awarded $8.6 million through the USDA Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) program. Eligible projects expand capacity for aggregation, processing, manufacturing, storing, transporting, wholesaling, and distribution of food products — for specialty crops, dairy, grains for consumption, aquaculture, and other food products (excluding meat and poultry).



Kentucky food and farm businesses in the middle of the supply chain are eligible. Infrastructure grant applicants can apply for a minimum of $100,000 and a maximum of $3 million, with a 50% match of the total proposed project cost (some historically underserved farmers and businesses may be eligible for a reduced 25% match). Equipment-Only project applicants can apply for grants between $10,000 and $100,000 with no match required.

Two funding streams: Infrastructure Grants ($100,000–$3,000,000, 50% match / 25% for some underserved applicants) and Equipment-Only Grants ($10,000–$100,000, no match). Meat and poultry are excluded.

List of Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KYDA) Funding Opportunities