Farm Credit East AgEnhancement Grant

The Farm Credit AgEnhancement Grant program is a collaborative funding initiative sponsored by Farm Credit East and CoBank. Since its inception in 1996, the program has committed over $3.5 million to support agriculture-related efforts across the Northeast. The primary mission of the AgEnhancement Grant is to foster the growth, awareness, and economic strength of the agricultural, forestry, and commercial fishing industries in the six New England states, as well as New York and New Jersey. These grants are designed to uplift both traditional and nontraditional agricultural practices, marketing strategies, and education-related activities in the region. The funding is open to a wide array of programs that benefit agriculture, with grant awards ranging from $500 to $10,000. Projects that have a long-term positive impact on the targeted sectors are strongly encouraged. Eligible initiatives include leadership development programs for youth and young farmers, efforts to improve the economic viability of agriculture, promotional campaigns for Northeast agricultural products, and educational programs that build public understanding of agriculture, forestry, and commercial fishing. Past recipients have included Future Farmers of America, the New York Apple Association, and Agriculture in the Classroom programs in multiple states, among others. The grant program has defined exclusions. It does not fund projects for individual farms, local school projects, general operating expenses, capital improvements, websites, or political contributions. Additionally, it will not consider funding for annual meetings or indirect project costs. However, in the interest of promoting diversity and inclusion, the program will consider otherwise ineligible one-county proposals if they are aligned with objectives to support minority engagement in agriculture. To apply, applicants must complete an online application form and upload a two-page letter outlining the project's purpose, objectives, partner involvement, specific dates, budget details, and publicity plans for the funded activity. Supporting materials, limited to three pages, may be submitted. Applications are reviewed three times annually, with deadlines on April 1, August 1, and December 1. Applicants are advised to submit their proposals at least one review cycle ahead of the planned event date to allow sufficient time for notification and disbursement. Applicants will receive an email confirmation upon successful submission of their application and should contact the grant program if they do not receive this confirmation. Final funding decisions are typically communicated within 30 days following the submission deadline. For further assistance or inquiries, applicants can email AgEnhancement@FarmCreditEast.com. While the grant does not specify an application open date, the rolling three-deadline structure allows multiple opportunities for submission throughout the year.

Submit early—at least one cycle ahead of project start date to ensure funding is received in time. Contact program staff if no confirmation email is received after submission.