Youth Pathways Grant for Careers in Agriculture

The Youth Pathways Grant for Careers in Agriculture is a strategic funding initiative of the Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation. It aims to prepare and inspire the next generation of professionals in Ohio’s agricultural sector, which is the largest industry in the state, contributing $107.9 billion in economic output and supporting over 778,000 jobs. With a projected need for 470,000 agribusiness workers and 90,000 direct farming operators over the next decade, the grant addresses an urgent workforce development gap by supporting programs that expose youth to ag-related career pathways. The purpose of the Youth Pathways Grant is to support nonprofit-led programs that introduce students to career and educational opportunities in agriculture and food systems. The foundation is especially interested in initiatives that emphasize long-term impact, cross-sector collaboration, and programmatic sustainability. All applicants must partner with at least one county Farm Bureau and one regional K–12 pipeline entity, such as an Education Service Center, Career Technical Center, or local school district. This ensures that grant-funded programs are deeply integrated into the education-to-career continuum and can effectively prepare youth for post-secondary training or direct industry entry. There are two funding tiers under the Youth Pathways Grant. The Program Growth Grant provides up to $25,000 for organizations seeking to expand existing youth-focused ag programs. The Program Sustainability Grant, offering up to $75,000, is reserved for mature programs with a demonstrated track record and a clear plan for long-term impact. Organizations that receive the Sustainability Grant may not reapply for three years. Preference is given to applicants looking to scale innovative solutions with lasting benefits for agricultural career development in Ohio. Eligibility is primarily limited to nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status or those with a qualified fiscal sponsor. Under certain conditions, charitable programs offered by non-501(c)(3) entities may be considered. County Farm Bureaus that previously received a Workforce Development & Ag Literacy Grant are still eligible to apply for Youth Pathways funding. This inclusive approach allows for a wide range of community-based educational and workforce partners to participate in strengthening Ohio’s food and agriculture systems. The application process is structured to include a mandatory in-person pitch session, which is designed to give applicants feedback from the Youth Pathways Advisory Committee before submitting a full proposal. Organizations must sign up between September 5 and September 26 to participate in the pitch session, which will be held on October 3 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Final proposals may be submitted between October 6 and October 20, 2025. Only organizations that complete the pitch session will be eligible to submit a proposal. A required PowerPoint template must be used for pitch presentations. This grant provides not only financial support but also strategic feedback and partnership alignment to ensure that funded programs can meet the state’s growing demand for skilled agricultural workers. For questions or further information, applicants are encouraged to contact the Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation at foundation@ofbf.org.

Participation in the in-person pitch session is required prior to proposal submission. Applicants must use the provided PowerPoint template.