Southern Maryland Farmer Mini-Grant Program

The Farmer Mini-Grant Program was launched in FY'17 and has become more popular and competitive as each new round is offered. The program is open to applicants ages 16 and older, residing and farming in Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, Prince George's, or St. Mary's counties. Grant awards are up to $3,000 per applicant, as a one-to-one dollar match, and can be used for a variety of projects. The Mini-Grant program is designed to assist new and beginning farmers who own or lease existing agricultural properties with small start-up projects, and to assist experienced farmers who are looking to diversify or expand a current agriculture project. To date, the program has received 263 applications with 208 applications funded for a total of $361,763.

Eligibility (Round 13):

• Does not include non-profits or community organizations.

• Applicants must be living in the State of Maryland and actively farming in Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, Prince George's, or St. Mary's counties.

• Youth (16 years and older) who are in or have been in FFA, 4-H, agricultural-related programs or classes, or who have a farming background, are encouraged to apply. If the applicant is not 18 years old, a letter from their parent(s) or guardian allowing them to apply for the Agricultural Mini-Grant is required.

• The applicant must match funds awarded dollar-to-dollar (matching must be in dollars, not in-kind or labor).

• Only completed applications with all applicable supporting documentation attached will be considered.

Awards will be granted based on the following criteria

• Consistent with definition of the Farmer Mini-Grant stated purpose

• Demonstrated ability of applicant to initiate, administer and complete project within proposed timeframe and budget.

• Matching funds are required for this grant.

• If the applicant is not 18 years old, a letter from their parents or guardian allowing them to apply for the Farmer Mini-Grant is required.

• The first 30 complete applications (with the required uploaded attachments) submitted will be ranked higher and may be used as a determining factor in the review process.

• SMADC reserves the right to review applications, suggest changes, and have the applicant resubmit.

1. Prepare your application using the Round 13 Criteria and Guidelines and the required Budget Template.

2. Obtain the required letter of reference from your county's Soil Conservation District, Farm Bureau, University of Maryland Extension, or Economic Development Office.

3. Gather required supporting documents: proof the enterprise is a real farm business, proof of property ownership/lease, proof of agricultural zoning, permits (if applicable), a current Nutrient Management Plan (if applicable), and a completed W-9.

4. Apply online at https://www.cognitoforms.com/Smadc/SMADCsSouthernMarylandFarmerMiniGrantRound13. Applications must be received by December 31, 2025. After submitting, you will receive a confirmation email; applications are reviewed by an independent Mini-Grant Review Committee and applicants are notified by early-to-mid February 2026.

• Round 13 Criteria and Guidelines

• Budget Template