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 $2,000 per applicant, as a one-to-one 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.

• Established farm enterprises only (does not include non-profits or community organizations).

• Must have an official tax document that proves the enterprise is an established farm business; a Schedule F, K1 Form, 1120S, or similar form. The document can be uploaded in the application portal.

• Applicant must be 18 years of age and own or operate an established farm business.

• Applicants residing and farming in Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, Prince George’s or St. Mary’s counties.

• No more than one application awarded, per applicant during a 12-month period, with a lifetime award limit of $6,000, whichever comes first.

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 application template. You can copy your answers from here into the online form.

2. Prepare your required budget using this template.

3. Make sure you have the required letter of reference from either your county’s Soil Conservation District, Farm Bureau, University of Maryland Extension, or Economic Development Office.

4. Apply online here.

• Round 10 Criteria and Guidelines

• Budget Template