The FruitGuys Community Fund Grant

The FruitGuys Community Fund provides microgrants up to $5,000 to small farms and agricultural nonprofits in the United States to support sustainability projects. The 2025 grant cycle is now closed, and applications were accepted until January 31, 2025. The grant program prioritizes projects that improve soil health, conserve water, extend the growing season, promote pollination, or increase energy efficiency. Ineligible expenses include hydro/aquaponic systems, land purchases, labor, consultants, general marketing, administrative costs, and one-time experiences. Eligibility is limited to small farms of 250 acres or less that are owned and operated by the applicant or where the applicant has long-term, legal land access. For-profit farms must be operational for a minimum of two years, while 501(c)(3) agricultural nonprofits must have been in operation for at least three years and provide IRS documentation and a board list. Applicants who have previously received a grant from the fund are not eligible. Additionally, the fund encourages applications from agricultural projects led by BIPOC farmers and nonprofits in states where it has not yet funded projects, with slight preference given to new states each cycle. The 2025 award distribution schedule includes grant awards in May, an interim report in August, and final project completion and reporting due by December 2025. Successful applicants are required to submit two progress reports, one in August and the final in January 2026. Applications require a detailed project description, budget, and timeline. Projects must be completed by December, with the final report due the following January. Special funding opportunities are available for BIPOC-led agricultural nonprofits through sponsorship by Aramark. Projects in specific states such as Nevada, Idaho, Utah, North Dakota, Nebraska, Minnesota, Arkansas, Alabama, Florida, South Carolina, New Hampshire, and Delaware may receive priority due to a focus on areas that have not yet been funded. However, farms from other states are still encouraged to apply. In addition to financial assistance, the FruitGuys Community Fund also encourages community engagement and education on sustainability practices. Volunteer opportunities are available to help evaluate grant applications, with a commitment of 15-20 hours in February and March for reading and scoring applications and participating in group discussions. Past grantees include a range of small farms and agricultural nonprofits across the country. The fund has supported projects focused on sustainable farming practices, energy-efficient infrastructure, and increasing food access in low-income communities. A comprehensive list of past grantees is available on their website, showcasing the impact of the fund over the years.

Applicants are encouraged to focus on projects that promote sustainability and community impact. Emphasis is placed on BIPOC-led agricultural nonprofits and farms in states where funding has not yet been allocated.