Microgrants Program

The Livestock Conservancy is currently accepting applications for its 2025–2026 Microgrant Program, which supports the conservation of heritage livestock and poultry breeds in the United States. The Livestock Conservancy is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Pittsboro, North Carolina, dedicated to protecting endangered livestock and poultry breeds from extinction. These microgrants are part of the Conservancy’s broader efforts to support stewards, breed associations, youth, and emergency responses to maintain genetic diversity and promote sustainable agriculture using heritage breeds listed on the Conservation Priority List (CPL). The Microgrant Program offers funding in several targeted categories. National Microgrants are available to individuals and organizations working with CPL-listed breeds in a variety of agricultural operations, including infrastructure, production (milk, meat, wool, eggs), agritourism, marketing, and more. Youth Microgrants support applicants aged 12 to 18 who are engaged with CPL-listed animals, and Breed Association Microgrants are available to associations and clubs that support conservation efforts and member services. These funds can be used for gene banking, education, software, and similar needs. A fourth category, Emergency Response Microgrants, offers case-by-case funding to preserve animals in urgent situations, such as natural disasters or the death or disability of a caretaker, when losing those animals would significantly harm a breed’s genetic viability. The funding amounts typically range from $500 to $2,000 for most microgrants, while emergency response awards usually range from $500 to $1,000. Funding decisions are made at the discretion of The Livestock Conservancy based on the genetic importance of the animals, project feasibility, and potential conservation impact. All expenditures must support CPL breeds and may include transportation, temporary housing, feed, veterinary care, or infrastructure for emergency response projects. To apply, candidates must submit an electronic application or mail a physical application postmarked by August 15, 2025. The application period opens May 15, 2025. Applications must include a detailed project description, a timeline, a budget, project goals, and an explanation of expected outcomes and evaluation methods. Applicants must also provide two letters of recommendation; youth applicants under 18 must also include a letter of support from a parent or guardian. Letters from Conservancy staff or board members are not permitted. Applications can be submitted online through a dedicated microgrant system or requested via email. Applications are reviewed during September and October, with notifications and contract processing occurring from November through December. Public announcement of winners takes place in January. Recipients must submit a report, along with photos or videos documenting the project's impact, within one year of receiving funding. Special consideration is given to applicants actively participating in breed associations, mentoring others, or promoting heritage breeds at public events. Applicants with questions may contact Jeannette Beranger at Jberanger@LivestockConservancy.org or call (919) 542-5704. For those interested in supporting the program financially, Executive Director Allison Kincaid can be reached at akincaid@livestockconservancy.org or (984) 208-9780. Employees and directors of the Conservancy and their spouses are not eligible for this program. All qualified applicants are considered regardless of personal background, in accordance with The Livestock Conservancy’s nondiscrimination policy.

Watch the “How to Apply” video and read all instructions carefully before beginning the application.