Rodale Institute BIPOC Micro-Grant

Rodale Institute, in partnership with Organic Farmers Association and TAZO, offers a micro-grant program specifically targeted to support small-scale BIPOC* farmers, whether organic, transitioning to organic, or an aspiring organic farmer.

Grant funding is focused on needs such as tools, equipment, training, consulting, or anything that ensures the farmer’s success. Funding should have the potential to positively impact a farmer’s transition to organic, allow them to better market their products, or solve a particular problem that is typically un-fundable through normal operational or lending strategies. Projects that have a high potential for impact on the individual farm and/or the communities they serve will be given the highest priority.

*Black, Indigenous & People of Color

Any U.S. small-scale BIPOC farmer who is currently organic or wishes to pursue the transition process to become organic, or any student/intern/apprentice involved in an organic operation is eligible to apply for these funds. Organic Farmers Association will be a partner in the process to screen potential recipients for the grants.

Funding Amount

Project budgets should be between $500 and $2,000, with an anticipated average budget of approximately $1,000. Multiple-year budgets will be accepted for projects requiring several years or seasons to complete, with annual milestones being described and met. In that case, the dollar amount of the submission can exceed the maximum allowed for a single year allotment.

Review

Proposals will be reviewed by a committee of Rodale Institute staff and board members, Organic Farmers Association, and/or partnerships with other groups as appropriate. Funding decisions will be made by April 30. Funds will be available immediately and released as per the demands of the project being funded.

Reporting

An annual report will be due 60 days after the end of the project.

To be eligible, farmers must currently be in Foodshed Capital’s pipeline for a loan or be working with their Business Support team and be able to demonstrate a strong commitment to regenerative organic practices on their farm.

To begin the application process, reach out to info@foodcap.org to start a conversation.

• Grant Information Page

• Reporting Information