Loans and Grants

Grant and loan options and opportunities are constantly changing. Farm loans often require financial records and farm business plans. Farm grant funding is very limited, quite competitive, and generally not available for new or startup farm operations. Not all of the listed items below will be available locally or may fit your operation’s needs.

Please reach out to our Ag Business Center if you need support in loan or grant applications. You can also find more information on our Farm Business Management page, at our local Madison CCE office, or through our Regional Team.

We are also always happy for feedback, suggestions about these links, or additional services or organizations to include!

This is our most current list of grant and loan opportunities that may support farms and farm businesses ( 12/2023 update). Inclusion on this list does not imply CCE's endorsement, recommendation, or favoring of such items or organizations. All material is for informational purposes only—please do your own due diligence and assessment of the vendor, product, or services as appropriate for your farm’s needs. Make sure to check application dates and deadlines, as they can change suddenly between years.

For more information on these opportunities, you can scroll below, or dig into an (upcoming) informal deep dive/explainer on our Mad for Ag blog.

• Beginner Farmer and Farm Purchase/Operational Loans
• Farm Infrastructure Loans
• Private Lenders
• Crowdfunding
• Emergency Lending
• Micro-Loans and Micro-Grants
• Farm Production and Business
• Community and Local Food System
• Environment, Conservation, and Forestry
• Energy

Beginner Farmer and Farm Purchase/Operational Loans

The FSA (Farm Service Agency) is the part of the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) that offers both direct loans and loan guarantees to farmers. Many of their lending tools are listed below, but you can find an overview of program options here: https://www.fsa.usda.gov/Assets/USDA-FSA-Public/usdafiles/FactSheets/2023/202310_fsa_farm_loans_overview.pdf

Farm Operating Loans
Agency: USDA FSA
Type: Loan
Source: Federal
Website: http://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/farm-loan-programs/farm-operating-loans/index
Description: "FSA Farm Operating Loans may be used for normal operating expenses, machinery and equipment, livestock, minor real estate repairs or improvements, and in certain cases, refinancing debt. Operating Loans are a valuable resource to start, maintain and strengthen a farm or ranch. For new agricultural producers, Operating Loans provide an essential gateway into agricultural production by financing the cost of operating a farm. There are two types of Operating Loans to choose from, the main difference being the repayment terms. Annual operating loans are generally repaid within 12 months or when the commodities produced are sold. Term operating loans have a repayment period of up to 7 years."
Amount: $400,000 max
Application period: Ongoing
Contact: Local FSA Service Center: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/contact/find-a-service-center?state=36&county=053

Farm Ownership Loans
Agency: USDA Farm Service Agency
Type: Loan
Source: Federal
Website: http://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/farm-loan-programs/farm-ownership-loans/index
Description: “Farm Ownership Loans are a valuable resource to help farmers and ranchers purchase or enlarge family farms, improve and expand current operations, increase agricultural productivity, and assist with land tenure to save farmland for future generations. Note that Farm Ownership Loans can be used in combination with other FSA and commercial loan products to meet your total financing needs.”
Amount: Up to $600,000
Matching requirement:
Special requirements: Loan will not exceed 45% of the farm or ranch purchase price or appraisal value. Also, financing from FSA and other sources must not exceed 95% of the purchase price.
Application period : Ongoing
Contact: Local FSA Service Center: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/contact/find-a-service-center?state=36&county=053

Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Loan
Agency: USDA Farm Service Agency
Type: Loan
Source: Federal
Website: http://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/farm-loan-programs/beginning-farmers-and-ranchers-loans/index
Description: The Farm Service Agency Loans for Beginner Farmers and Ranchers are aimed to help those who have not been operating for less than 10 years and owns an operation that is 30% of the typical size in America. The "Farm Ownership loans can provide access to land and capital. Operating loans can assist beginning farmers in become prosperous and competitive by helping to pay normal operating or family living expenses; open doors to new markets and marketing opportunities; assist with diversifying operations; and so much more. Through the Microloan programs, beginning farmers and ranchers have an important source of financial assistance during the start-up years."
Amount: Ownership and operating loans: $300,000; Microloans: $50,000
Special requirements: Depends on type of loan. You will need to refer to the website or speak with your local FSA representative. The ownership loans should not exceed 45% of the purchase price or appraisal value of the ranch or farm.
Application period: Ongoing
Contact: Local FSA Service Center: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/contact/find-a-service-center?state=36&county=053

FSA Microloans Program
Agency: USDA FSA
Type: Loan
Source: Federal
Website: http://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/farm-loan-programs/microloans/index
Description: “Microloans are designed to fit the needs of small farms, beginning farmers, niche and non-traditional farm operations, to include truck farms, farms participating in direct marketing, such as farmers’ markets, CSAs (Community Supported Agriculture), restaurants, and grocery stores. Microloans can also be used for hydroponic, aquaponic, organic and vertical growing methods.”
Amount: Up to $50,000
Matching requirement:
Special requirements: 1) Must have no criminal record, 2) must have ability to obtain legal counsel, 3) have a good credit record, 4) be a US citizen, 5) have no forgiveness of previous debt, 6) owe no taxes to the IRS, or 7) have a previous violation to any FSA crop insurance.
Application period: Ongoing
Contact: Local FSA Service Center: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/contact/find-a-service-center?state=36&county=053

FarmStart
Agency: Farm Credit East
Type: Loan
Source: Private
Website: https://www.farmcrediteast.com/FarmStart
Description: This program makes working capital investments of up to $75,000 to northeast agricultural ventures showing promise of success. The innovative program targets startup farmers and ag businesses (generally in first 3 years of business) with limited financial resources and who are not generally eligible for conventional lending programs.
Amount: Up to $75,000
Application period: Ongoing
Contact: FarmStart@FarmCreditEast.com or your local Farm Credit East office: Cooperstown, 607-282-3002

SBA Microloan Program Agency: USDA Small Business Administration
Type: Loan
Source: Federal
Website: https://www.sba.gov/loans-grants/see-what-sba-offers/sba-loan-programs/microloan-program
Description: The SBA Microloan program provides loans to help small businesses cover start-up and expansion fees. These loans can be used as working capital and for things like equipment, fixtures, inventory, and supplies.
Amount: up to $50,000
Application period: Ongoing
Contact: US Small Business Administration, Answer Desk PH: 800-827-5722 or answerdesk@sba.gov

SBA Small Business Loans
Agency: USDA Small Business Administration
Type: Loan
Source: Federal
Website: https://www.sba.gov/loans-grants/see-what-sba-offers/sba-loan-programs/general-small-business-loans-7a
Description: Primarily, SBA is a guarantor of loans made by private and other institutions. These loans are geared towards helping businesses out and are determine on things such as ownership, place of operation, and practices.
Amount: up to $5 million.
Special requirements: 1) Must be for profit, 2) be a small business as defined by SBA, 3) do business in the USA, 4) have invested equity, 5) have a demonstrated need for a loan, 6) must the funds solely for the business, and 7) don't owe any money to the US government.
Application period: Ongoing
Contact: US Small Business Administration, Answer Desk PH: 800-827-5722 or answerdesk@sba.gov

Farm Infrastructure Loans

Farm Storage Facility Loan Program (FSFL)
Agency: USDA Farm Service Agency
Type: Loan
Source: Federal
Website: https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/price-support/facility-loans/farm-storage/
Description: “The Farm Storage Facility Loan Program (FSFL) provides low-interest financing so producers can build or upgrade facilities to store commodities. Eligible commodities include grains, oilseeds, peanuts, pulse crops, hay, honey, renewable biomass commodities, fruits and vegetables, floriculture, hops, maple sap, milk, cheese, yogurt, butter, eggs, meat/poultry (unprocessed), rye and aquaculture. Eligible facility types include grain bins, hay barns, bulk tanks, and facilities for cold storage. Drying and handling and storage equipment is also eligible, including storage and handling trucks. Eligible facilities and equipment may be new or used, permanently affixed or portable.”
Amount: Varies, up to $500,000
Matching requirement: 15% downpayment required
Application period: Ongoing

Farm Labor Housing Direct Loans and Grants
Agency: USDA Rural Development
Type: Grants and Loans
Source: Federal
Website: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/farm-labor-housing-direct-loans-grants
Description: provides financing to develop housing for year-round and migrant or seasonal domestic farm laborers. Loans and grants are provided to buy, build, improve or repair housing for farm labor, including persons whose income is earned in aquaculture and on-farm processing. Loans to finance affordable, off farm rental housing to low-wage farm workers are used in conjunction with grant funds.
Application period: Due by August 30th (funding period closed for 2023)

Private Lenders that Work with Farmers

Agricultural Banking & Lending
Agency: NBT Banks
Type: Loans
Source: Private
Website: https://www.nbtbank.com/Business/Products-and-Services/Agricultural-Banking/Lending
Description: NBT Banks have various financial services available such as loans available to those in the agricultural community.
Application period: Ongoing

Agriculture Business Loans Agency: M&T Bank
Type: Loans
Source: Private
Website: https://www.mtb.com/business/business-banking/industry-solutions/agriculture-businesses
Description: M&T offers a full suite of agriculture bank accounts and specialized lending solutions, including farm real estate loans, farm equipment loans, working capital lines of credit and more.
Application period: Ongoing

Agricultural Lending Program
Agency: Community Bank
Type: Loans
Source: Private
Website: https://www.communitybankna.com/
Description: Community Bank has loans and financial services for various business ventures.
Application period: Ongoing

Business and Agricultural Loans
Agency: First Citizens Bank
Type: Loan
Source: Private, Local
Website: https://www.firstcitizensbank.com/agriculture-banking/message-from-the-president.html
Description: First Citizens Bank offers an array of loans for businesses and farms. These loans can be used to cover the cost of a variety of things such as purchasing property, livestock, equipment, and many other things.
Special requirements: Farm or Business Plan
Application period: Ongoing

Loans for Agriculture, Commercial Fishing, and Forest Products Agency: Farm Credit East
Type: Loan
Source: Private
Website: https://www.farmcrediteast.com/FINANCING
Description: Farm Credit is a network of independently owned and operated credit and financial institutions that serve farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses of every size and income range across the country as well as those that desire country living. They are focused expressly on agriculture and are committed to helping you achieve your unique financial goals.
Application period: Ongoing

Crowdfunding Platforms

Kickstarter
Agency: Kickstarter
Type: Grant
Source: Crowdfunding
Website: https://www.kickstarter.com/
Description: Raise funds for any project by attracting online donations.
Amount: Any amount
Matching requirement: None
Application period: Anytime

Kiva Zip Loans
Agency: Kiva
Type: Loan
Source: Crowdfunding
Website: https://www.kiva.org/
Description: Raise funds for a 0% interest loan by attracting online lenders.
Amount: $25 - $15,000
Matching requirement: None
Application period: Anytime
Contact: Kiva Headquarters at 828-479-5482 or https://www.kiva.org/help?contactus=1

Go Fund Me
Agency: GoFundMe
Type: Grant
Source: Crowdfunding
Website: https://www.gofundme.com/
Description: Raise funds for any project by attracting online donations.
Amount: Any amount
Matching requirement: None
Application period: Anytime

Emergency Lending

Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP)
Agency: USDA
Type: Other
Source: Federal
Website: https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/disaster-assistance-program/noninsured-crop-disaster-assistance/index
Description: Provides financial assistance to producers of non-insurable crops when low yields, loss of inventory, or prevented planning occur due to natural disasters.

Assistance for Distressed Borrowers
Agency: USDA Farm Service Agency
Source: Federal
Website: https://www.farmers.gov/loans/inflation-reduction-investments/assistance
Description: The 2022 Inflation Reduction Act provided $3.1 billion for USDA to provide relief for distressed borrowers with certain Farm Service Agency (FSA) direct and guaranteed loans and to expedite assistance for those whose agricultural operations are at financial risk. USDA is implementing this provision with the goals of keeping borrowers farming, removing obstacles that currently prevent many borrowers from returning to their land, and improving the way that USDA approaches borrowing and loan servicing in the long-term. USDA has allocated up to $1.3 billion for initial steps to help distressed borrowers. This includes both automatic and case-by-case assistance. This program complements other assistance made possible through the IRA, including producers who experienced discrimination in USDA farm loan programs.

Emergency Conservation Program (ECP)
Agency: USDA Farm Service Agency
Type: Grant
Source: Federal
Website: https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/conservation-programs/emergency-conservation/index
Description: Emergency grant funding to help farmers and ranchers repair damage to farmlands caused by natural disaster, including water conservation in the time of a drought
Amount: 50,000 while $50,001 to $100,000 requires state committee approval. Amounts over $100,000 require the approval of the national FSA office.
Matching requirement: 25% of project costs

Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP)
Agency: USDA Farm Service Agency
Type: Grant
Source: Federal
Website: https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/disaster-assistance-program/emergency-forest-restoration/
Description: Emergency grant funding for the owners of non-industrial private forests. Helps restore forest health in areas that have been affected by natural disaster
Amount: $50,000. While $50,000 to $100,000 requires state committee approval. Amounts over $100,000 require the approval of the national FSA office.
Matching requirement: 25% of project cost
Special requirements: Nonindustrial private forest

Disaster Loans
Agency: USDA Small Business Administration
Type: Loan
Source: Federal
Website: https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance
Description: SBA Disaster Loan program is open to businesses, homeowners, nonprofit organizations, and renters for the use towards things like repair and replacement of things such as business assets, equipment, inventory, machinery, personal property, and real estate in a declared disaster event.
Amount: Up to $2 million
Matching requirement:
Special requirements: Must be in regards to a declared disaster.
Application period: Ongoing
Contact: US Small Business Administration, Answer Desk PH: 800-827-5722, Disaster Loans PH: 800-659-2955, or answerdesk@sba.gov

Emergency Farm Loans
Agency: USDA Farm Service Agency
Type: Loan
Source: Federal
Website: http://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/farm-loan-programs/emergency-farm-loans/index
Description: " This applies to land located in a county declared by the President as a disaster area or designated by the Secretary of Agriculture as a disaster area or quarantine area. The purposes of this loan includes (1) to restore or replace essential property, (2) pay all or part of production costs associated with the disaster year, (3) pay essential family living expenses, (4) reorganize the farming operation, and (5) refinance certain debts.”
Amount: $500,000 max
Matching requirement:
Special requirements: Declaration of a natural disaster or emergency such as in the case after a tornado, flood, drought, or quarantine.
Application period: After a declaration of a natural disaster or emergency.

Micro-Loans and Micro-Grants

Farmer Veteran Fellowship Fund
Agency: Farmer Veteran Coalition
Type: Grant
Source: Nonprofit
Website: https://farmvetco.org/fvfellowship/
Description: This fund is for veterans who are getting started in farming or ranching. The monies of this fund are not given directly to the farmers, but instead to third parties for the purchase of items essential for getting started in farming and ranching such as equipment.
Amount: $1,000 - $5,000
Matching requirement: None
Special requirements: 1) Applicants must have served or are currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, 2) for veterans, applicant must have had a honorable discharge, 3) for active service members, must have letter of command support, 4) all applicants must have must have a farm plan, 5) all applicants must be willing to participate fully in the fellowship program activities such as reporting progress, mentoring other aspiring veteran farmers, and representing the Farmer Veteran Coalition at events, 5) all applicants must have a desire to make a positive impact on the veteran community involved in farming.
Application period: Opens Jan 3, 2024
Contact: Farmer Veteran Coalition at 530-756-1395

Youth Loans
Agency: USDA Farm Service Agency
Type: Loan
Source: Federal
Website: http://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/farm-loan-programs/youth-loans/index
Description: The FSA Youth Loans are directed towards youth who are involved in 4-H, FFA, and other agricultural youth groups. These loans provide funds which allow youth to start and operate projects aimed at producing income. All projects require an adult adviser with appropriate experience to oversee the youth projects and give help whenever needed.
Amount: Up to $5,000
Matching requirement:
Special requirements: 1) An adult adviser with appropriate experience to oversee the project, 2) involvement in 4-H, FFA, or another agricultural youth group, 3) Parental consent for the loan closing, 4) project must contain an agricultural and educational component, 5) project must make enough to repay loan an interest.
Application period: Ongoing

Young Farmer Grant Program
Agency: National Young Farmers Coalition
Type: Micro-Grant
Source: Nonprofit
Website: https://www.youngfarmers.org/youngfarmergrants/
Description: Open to beginner farmers, this micro-grant supports startup and regenerative commercial farms of any type of enterprise.
Amount: $5000
Matching Requirement: None
Special Requirements: 2024 is the last year of the grant program
Application Period: Due Jan 15, 2024!
Contact: https://www.youngfarmers.org/youngfarmergrants/

Fund a Farmer Grants
Agency: Food Animal Concerns Trust (FACT)
Type: Grant
Source: Nonprofit
Website: https://foodanimalconcernstrust.org/grants/
Description: Funds grants for raising animals humanely. Two types of projects are eligible, (1) Animal Welfare Certification Projects; (2) Pasture Improvement Projects.
Amount: up to $2,500
Matching requirement: none
Special requirements: Farms must be animal welfare-oriented.
Application period: See grant website, due Jan 15, 2024
Contact: Lisa Isenhart, FACT’s Humane Farming Program Manager at 773-525-4952 or grants@foodanimalconcerns.org

NYS Agricultural Society Foundation
Agency: NYS Agricultural Society Foundation (NYSASF)
Type: Grant
Source: Nonprofit
Website: https://www.nysagsociety.org/grant-application-guidelines/
Description: NYSASF is an organization focusing on education, leadership development and recognition for future generations involved in the New York State food and agriculture industry. Each year the NYSASF selects a focus area for their annual grant-making.
Amount: up to $2500
Matching requirement: None
Special requirements: Must be a nonprofit organization that serves NYS residents
Application period: Due November 30 each year
Contact: Ann Shephard at (315) 727-5449 or email ann@nysagsociety.org

Brighter Futures Fund
Agency: American Farmland Trust
Type: Grant
Source: Nonprofit
Website: https://farmland.org/brighter-future/
Description: The Brighter Future Fund was launched in 2020 to assist farmers in successfully launching, growing, and sustaining farms in the face of forces impacting the food and agricultural system. Funding will be allocated to help farmers 1) Improve farm viability; 2) Access, transfer, or permanently protect farmland; or 3) Adopt regenerative agricultural practices.
Amount: Up to $10,000
Application period: Generally in spring/early summer—very short open application window (a couple of weeks)
Contact: Sign up link to get notice of future grant cycles: https://farmland.salsalabs.org/bffupdates/index.html

Organic Micro Grant
Agency: Organic Crop Improvement Association (OCIA)
Type: Grant
Source: Nonprofit
Website: https://ocia.org/research-education/micro-grants/
Description: OCIA Research and Education is a charitable organization, created in 2003, by OCIA International, an organic certification organization. OCIA's research arm's mission is to support organic research; facilitate connections between farmers, researchers, consumers and decision­ makers; and educate producers and communities regarding organic farming and foods.
Amount: $500 to $3,000
Application period: See grant website, typically March and November deadlines
Contact: (402) 477-2323

Farm Production and Business Grants

NYS Grown and Certified Infrastructure and Technology Program
Agency: NYFVI/NYS Grown and Certified
Type: Grant
Source: State
Website: https://nyfvi.org/nys-growncertified-itrd-grant-program/
Description: New in 2024, grants will be available for infrastructure and technology projects as well as research and development. Many capital costs will be allowed. Specific priorities for projects include: Distribution capacity enhancement, Environmental sustainability related to NYS Grown & Certified participation, Food Safety, New Product Development, Processing and Packing, and Production automation and labor efficiency.
Amount: $20,000 to $250,000 for infrastructure and technology projects, and $10,000 to $50,000 for product research and development projects
Matching requirement: 10% match for all projects
Special requirements: Applications from current NYS Grown & Certified participants or businesses actively working to become certified will be prioritized. Applicants will need to be able to communicate clearly about their business plan and financials in the application.
Application period: opening in winter/spring 2024
Contact: link to get emailed with more information: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfFrsKHMH0yolE0QPW7M2FW7ZMPJA3kG37r_QjDocqXOjK6wA/viewform

SARE Farmer Grants
Agency: Northeast SARE
Type: Grant
Source: Nonprofit
Website: http://www.nesare.org/Grants/Get-a-Grant/Farmer-Grant
Description: Provides funding to "commercial producers who have an innovative idea they want to test using a field trial, on-farm demonstration, marketing initiative, or other technique." Funds can be used to compensate a farmer for his time invested in researching the new idea.
Amount: Up to $15,000
Matching requirement: None
Special requirements: Producers must have a technical advisor that is an extension agent, crop adviser, or another professional.
Application period: Generally in November
Contact: Carol Delaney at 802-229-2096 (Mon, Fri), 802-656-0697 (Tues, Wed, Thurs), or Carol.Delaney@uvm.edu.

New York State Good Agricultural Practices Certification Assistance Program
Agency: New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets
Type: Cost Share/Reimbursement
Source: New York State
Website: https://agriculture.ny.gov/food-safety/good-agricultural-practices
Description: Reimburses fees for certification of good agricultural practice (GAP, GHP) that are needed by producers to sell to certain wholesale buyers.
Amount: up to $2,000
Matching requirement: None, but this is a cost share reimbursement
Special requirements: GAP/GHP audit and water testing costs only
Application period: See grant website
Contact: NYS Department of Ag and Markets GAP team (585) 427-0200 or nysgapinfo@agriculture.ny.gov

Value Added Producer Grants
Agency: USDA Rural Development
Type: Grant
Source: Federal
Website: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/value-added-producer-grants
Description: "The VAPG program helps agricultural producers enter into value-added activities related to the processing and/or marketing of bio-based, value-added products. Generating new products, creating and expanding marketing opportunities, and increasing producer income are the goals of this program. You may receive priority if you are a beginning farmer or rancher, a socially-disadvantaged farmer or rancher, a small or medium-sized farm or ranch structured as a family farm, a farmer or rancher cooperative, or are proposing a mid-tier value chain. Grants are awarded through a national competition. Each fiscal year, applications are requested through a notice published in the Federal Register and through an announcement posted on Grants.gov."
Amount: Up to $75,000 for planning grants and $250,000 for working grants.
Matching requirement: 50% of total project cost
Special requirements: Data Universal Number System (DUNS) and System for Award Management (SAM) need to be set up before applying.
Application period: See grant website, generally spring deadline
Contact: Scott Collins, Acting State Director at 315-477-6400

Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR)
Agency: USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Type: Grant
Source: Federal
Website: https://nifa.usda.gov/program/small-business-innovation-research-program-sbir
Description: Awards grants to small businesses to partake in research which could be of benefit to the public. American-owned, independently operated, for-profit businesses with 500 employees or fewer. Looking for "innovative ideas and technology, resulting in more jobs and long-term commercial value"
Amount: Phase I: up to $100,000
Application period: See grant website, currently closed
Contact: Scott Dockum, USDA Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program Coordinator 202-720-6346 at sdockum@ny.usda.gov

Environmental Quality Incentives Program
Agency: USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
Type: Other
Source: Federal
Website: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov//wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/programs/financial/eqip/
Description: The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) is a wide ranging voluntary program that provides financial and technical assistance to agricultural producers to plan and implement conservation practices that improve soil, water, plant, animal, air and related natural resources on agricultural land and non-industrial private forestland regulations.

High Tunnel System Initiative
Agency: USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
Type: Other
Source: Federal
Website: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov//wps/portal/nrcs/detailfull/national/programs/?&cid=stelprdb1046250
Description: A part of the EQIP program, the NRCS High Tunnel System Initiative is a conservation program that helps individuals and legal entities engaged in agricultural production install high tunnel ("hoop house") greenhouses to extend their growing season.
National ROPS (Rollover Protective Structure) Retrofit Program

Agency: National Tractor Safety Coalition
Type: Rebate (after purchase)
Source: Nonprofit
Website: https://www.ropsr4u.org/national-rebate-program.php
Description: The National ROPS Rebate Program (NRRP) is a voluntary program that provides rebates for approximately 70%* of the cost of purchasing and installing a ROPS (Rollover Protective Structure; rollbar) kit. This rebate covers the ROPS kit (rollbar and seatbelt), shipping, and professional installation, if desired.
Amount: 70% of cost (prices can run from $200 to $6000-ish)
Matching requirement: 30%
Special requirements: Professional installation is encouraged
Application period: Rolling
Contact: (877) 767-7748 or info@ropsr4u.org

John May Farm Safety Fund
Agency: Bassett—NYCAMH (NY Center for Agricultural Medicine and Health)
Type: Grant
Source: Nonprofit
Website: https://www.nycamh.org/programs-and-services/john-may-farm-safety-fund.php
Description: The John May Farm Safety Fund provides matching funds to small and mid-sized farm operations for repairs and upgrades that make for a safer workplace. You pay half. We pay half, up to $5,000.
Amount: Up to $5000
Matching requirement: 50%
Application period: Ongoing
Contact: 800-343-7527, JMFSF@bassett.org

Pro Dairy—Dairy Advancement Program
Agency: Cornell PRO-DAIRY
Type: NYS
Source: NYSDAM and NY DEC
Website: https://cals.cornell.edu/pro-dairy/our-expertise/dairy-advancement-program/program-guidelines
Description: The Dairy Advancement Program (DAP) (previously known as the Dairy Acceleration Program) was expanded to provide more opportunities for New York farmers to address business needs necessary to meet the challenges of today’s marketplace and to better position themselves for long-term success. In addition to continuing to provide funding assistance for business planning, new recordkeeping systems, operational planning and advisory teams, new funds support the development of human resource management practices such as SOPs, development of job descriptions and employee handbooks.
Amount: Varies
Matching requirement: 20%
Special requirements: Farm must have complete financial records to qualify for business planning or operational planning funds. Must have a current Comprehensive Nutritient Management Plan (CNMP) if applying for funds to design Best Management Practices (BMPs).
Application period: Ongoing
Contact: Please contact Caroline Potter with any questions at cjh42@cornell.edu or (315) 882-2083

Dairy Food Safety & Certification Grant
Agency: Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center
Type: Grant
Source:
Website: https://nedairyinnovation.com/grants/dairy-food-safety-certification/
Description: Projects funded by this grant will allow dairy farmers, processors, and/or producer associations to take actionable steps to improve the safety of dairy products and improve marketability.
Amount: $10,000 to $40,000
Matching requirement: 25%
Application period: Currently closed, but expect to reopen December 2023
Contact: ben.eldredge@vermont.gov

Dairy Farm Innovation & Alternative Management Grant
Agency: Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center
Type: Grant
Source:
Website: https://agriculture.vermont.gov/dbic/grants/dairy-farm-innovation-grant
Description: This program will provide grants for dairy farmers to access resources and technical assistance to support the implementation of community- and climate-forward production strategies. Projects funded through this grant program should take a whole farm system approach and increase collaboration with other farms or dairy sector stakeholders.
Amount: $15,000 to $75,000
Matching requirement: 25%
Application period: Currently closed
Contact: Laura.Ginsburg@vermont.gov

Community and Local Food System Grants

Community Foods Project
Agency: USDA
Type: Grant
Source: Federal
Website: https://nifa.usda.gov/funding-opportunity/community-food-projects-cfp-competitive-grants-program
Description: The Community Food Projects Competitive Grants Program (CFP) awards grants to eligible nonprofits, tribal organizations and food program service providers to promote self-sufficiency and food security, address specific needs and provide comprehensive, community-based solutions in low-income communities.
Amount: $35,000 - $400,000
Matching requirement: 100% match required
Application period: in 2023, deadline was August

Farmers Market Promotion Program
Agency: USDA Agricultural Marketing Service
Type: Grant
Source: Federal
Website: https://www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants/fmpp
Description: to increase domestic consumption of, and access to, locally and regionally produced agricultural products
Amount: Varies
Matching requirement: None
Special requirements: Data Universal Number System (DUNS) and System for Award Management (SAM) need to be set up before applying.
Application period: usually April/May
Contact: E-mail: USDAFMPPQuestions@ams.usda.gov
Phone: 202-720-0933

Farm to School Grant Program
Agency: USDA Farm Service Agency
Type: Grant
Source: Federal
Website: http://www.fns.usda.gov/farmtoschool/farm-school-grant-program
Description: Provides funding to groups that initiate or implement farm to school programs.
Amount: Varies
Matching requirement: 25% match
Special requirements: Schools eligible for planning & implementation grants. Producers, producer networks, and agencies eligible for support service & training grants.
Application period: See website
Contact: USDA Farm to School Grant Program at farmtoschool@fns.usda.gov

Local Food Promotion Program Planning Grants
Agency: USDA Agricultural Marketing Service
Type: Grant
Source: Federal
Website: https://www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants/lfpp
Description: Helps fund the planning stages of a "local or regional food business enterprise"
Amount: $25,000 - $100,000
Matching requirement: 25% match
Special requirements: Eligible entities may apply if they support local and regional food business enterprises that process, distribute, aggregate, or store locally or regionally produced food products.
Application period: generally spring deadline
Contact: USDA, Agricultural Marketing Service at 202-720-2731 or any of the following grant specialists: Kim Harmon at Kim.Harmon@ams.usda.gov,Velma Lakins at Velma.Lakins@ams.usda.gov, Zoemi Santiago at Zoemi.Santiago@ams.usda.gov.

Local Food Promotion Program Implementation Grants
Agency: USDA Agricultural Marketing Service
Type: Grant
Source: Federal
Website: https://www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants/lfpp
Description: Helps to fund the establishment or expansion of a "local or regional food business enterprise."
Amount: $100,000 - $500,000
Matching requirement: 25% match
Special requirements: Eligible entities may apply if they support local and regional food business enterprises that process, distribute, aggregate, or store locally or regionally produced food products.
Application period: generally spring deadlines
Contact: USDA, Agricultural Marketing Service at 202-720-2731 or any of the following grant writing specialist: Kim Harmon at Kim.Harmon@ams.usda.gov, Velma Lakins at Velma.Lakins@ams.usda.gov, Zoemi Santiago at Zoemi.Santiago@ams.usda.gov.

Rural Business Development Grants
Agency: USDA Rural Development
Type: Grant
Source: Federal
Website: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/rural-business-development-grants
Description: Rural Business Development Grants (RBDG) are competitive grants made to rural public entities designed to support targeted technical assistance, training and other activities leading to the development or expansion of small and emerging private businesses in rural areas that have fewer than 50 employees and Jess than $1 million in gross revenues.
Amount: There is no maximum grant amount; however, smaller requests are given higher priority
Matching requirement:
Special requirements:
Application period: Feb 2024

Regional Food System Partnerships
Agency: USDA
Type: Grant
Source: Federal
Website: https://www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants/rfsp
Description: The Regional Food System Partnerships (RFSP) program supports partnerships that connect public and private resources to plan and develop local or regional food systems. The program focuses on strengthening the viability and resilience of regional food economies through collaboration and coordination. RFSP supports public-private partnerships that plan and develop relationships between local and regional producers, processors, intermediaries, and institutional markets or institutional food service operations through local and regional producers and local and regional food systems.
Amount: $100,000 and up
Matching requirement: 25% of project cost
Application Period: Closed for 2023, see website

NY Urban Farms and Community Gardens Grant
Agency: NYS Department of Ag and Markets
Type: Grant
Source: State
Website: https://agriculture.ny.gov/rfp-0318-urban-farms-and-community-gardens-grant-program
Description: The grant program will fund projects for the development and enhancement of urban farms, school gardens, and community gardens. The Department is seeking feedback on the greatest needs and ways for this funding to create a lasting impact on local food resiliency.
Amount: $20,000 to $50,000
Matching requirement: at least 10%
Special requirements: must apply through NYS grants gateway
Application period: was fall 2023, closed for the year
Contact: Megan Haggerty, NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets, megan.haggerty@agriculture.ny.gov

Conservation, Environment, and Forestry Grants

Climate Resilient Farming Grants
Agency: New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets
Type: Grant
Source: State
Website: https://agriculture.ny.gov/soil-and-water/climate-resilient-farming
Description: Provides funding to farmers for projects the mitigate the impact of agriculture on climate change—particular focus is on manure storage and water management
Special requirements: Farms MUST apply by contacting the county Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD). Only SWCDs are directly eligible.

Urban and Community Forestry Grants
Agency: DEC (note: this is a unique grant opportunity funded by the USDA Forest Service through the Federal Inflation Reduction Act and is not to be confused with the regular rounds of DEC Urban and Community Forestry Grants)
Type: Federal
Source: USDA Forest Service
Website: https://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/5285.html
Description: Inflation Reduction Act Urban and Community Forestry Grants Available - 12.9 million is available for urban forestry work in disadvantaged communities across New York State for the following two categories: Community Forest Management Plan Implementation in Disadvantaged Communities and Ash Tree Management in Disadvantaged Communities
Amount: $10,000 to $500,000
Matching requirement: none
Special requirements: See RFP on applicant eligibility, aimed at municipalities and nonprofit organizations
Application period: Next round due Jan 2024

Wood Innovations Grant and Community Wood Grant
Agency: USDA Forest Service
Type: Grant
Source: Federal
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/science-technology/energy-forest-products/wood-innovation
Description: The Wood Innovations Grants Program stimulates, expands, and supports U.S. wood products markets and wood energy markets to support the long-term management of National Forest System and other forest lands. Focus areas include mass timber, renewable wood energy, and technological development that supports hazardous fuel reduction and sustainable forest management. The Community Wood Grant Program provides funding for grants to install thermally led community wood energy systems or to build innovative wood product manufacturing facilities. The Forest Service expects renewable wood energy systems installed under this program to use the most stringent control technologies. The program places extra emphasis on assisting sawmills in economically challenged areas to retool or add advanced technology
Application Period: Deadline December 1 ^st and 15^th, 2023

Regenerate NY Forestry Cost Share
Agency: NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
Type: Cost reimbursement
Source:
Website: https://www.dec.ny.gov/nature/forests-trees/private-forest-management/regenerate-new-york-grant-program
Description: Through Regenerate NY, landowners can apply for financial assistance for projects on their land that support the establishment and renewal of healthy forests. Includes afforestation/reforestation projects, forest stand regeneration, competing vegetation control, and deer exclosure projects.
Amount: $10,000 to $100,000
Matching requirement: 25% match
Special requirements: This is a cost share reimbursement program, so all costs must be incurred by the landowner or fiscal sponsor before they can be reimbursed. Applicants must work with a forester or other natural resource professionals to develop their project. Must apply through NY Grants Gateway.
Application period: Closed for 2023, reopens in spring
Contact: Scott Moxham, Program Coordinator, RegenNY@dec.ny.gov

Energy Grants

Rural Energy for America Program Renewable Energy Systems & Energy Efficiency Improvement Loans & Grants
Agency: USDA Rural Development
Type: Grants and Loans
Source: Federal
Website: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/energy-programs/rural-energy-america-program-renewable-energy-systems-energy-efficiency-improvement-guaranteed-loans
Description: The Rural Energy for America program provides loans and grants to help agricultural producers and small businesses of rural areas invest to purchase and install renewable energy systems and/or improve their energy efficiency.
Amount: Loans: greater than $5,000. Grants up to $500, 000.
Matching requirement: Loans: at least 25% of total cost. Grants: 75% of total project costs. Loan and Grant Combined: at least 25% of total project costs.
Special requirements: 1) Agricultural producers must have at least 50% of gross income coming from their agricultural operation. 2) Small business must be in one of the define eligible regions. 3) Applicants must not owe any money to the federal government.
Application period: Four rounds in late 2023 through 2024
Contact: Brian Murray, State Director (315) 477-6400

Ag Energy NY
Agency: CCE Ag Energy NY
Type: Clearinghouse
Source: Listing of federal, NYSERDA, other incentives
Website: https://agenergyny.org/incentives-grants/
Description: This page lists opportunities for support improving farm energy efficiency. This includes no-cost, no-commitment technical assistance, equipment and facility rebates, and grants to share the costs of energy efficiency upgrades or installations. Extension staff are happy to help you navigate these options at any point in the process of improving your farm’s energy efficiency.
Amount: Varies
Matching requirement: Varies
Contact: https://agenergyny.org/contact-us/

Last updated January 5, 2024