The UC Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems Small Grants Program 2025-2026, offered by the UC Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program (UC SAREP), funds projects that enhance the resilience and equity of California’s farming and food systems. Grants focus on supporting environmentally regenerative practices, economic returns for sustainable agriculture, and equitable food access in urban, rural, and Tribal communities.
Applications are due by January 14, 2025, at 5:00 PM PST. Funding is available in three categories: Planning Grants (up to $10,000), Education and Outreach Grants (up to $10,000), and Applied Research Grants (up to $20,000 for one project). Grants are cost-reimbursable, with projects running from May 1, 2025, to April 30, 2026. No-cost extensions are unavailable, and unspent funds will be forfeited.
Eligible applicants include farm or food system businesses, nonprofits, government agencies, Tribal governments, and academic institutions in California. Proposals must align with one of two priority areas: 1) supporting farmers and land stewards in transitioning to sustainable practices or 2) enhancing community access to healthy, culturally appropriate foods and fair food systems.
Proposals should include a narrative addressing project relevance, goals, methods, and evaluation, as well as detailed budgets and letters of support. Collaboration among diverse stakeholders, such as farmers, researchers, and community groups, is encouraged, with additional points awarded for engaging socially disadvantaged and Tribal communities.
Applications must be submitted via Google Forms, with a combined proposal document and separate budget file. Award notifications will be sent by mid-March 2025. For questions, contact Kristen Farrar at kfarrar@ucanr.edu or (530) 786-0390.
