Louisiana Agricultural Workforce Development Program

The Louisiana Agricultural Workforce Development Program (LAWDP), administered by the Louisiana Agricultural Finance Authority (LAFA), offers financial support to agricultural businesses across Louisiana seeking to develop and strengthen the future workforce in agriculture. The initiative is managed by the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF), whose broader mission includes supporting and promoting agricultural sustainability, resource conservation, and economic development throughout the state. The primary objective of the LAWDP is to encourage agricultural enterprises to create internship opportunities for Louisiana-based secondary and postsecondary students, as well as beginning farmers or ranchers. The program provides cost-sharing incentives to businesses that participate by hiring interns. Through these internships, young and emerging agricultural workers gain valuable hands-on experience while contributing directly to the operations of local agribusinesses. Each year, the application window for businesses opens from July 1 to August 31. Applications are evaluated on a first-come, first-served basis, making early submission critical for potential applicants. Approved businesses may receive reimbursement for up to 50% of the costs associated with hiring interns, with a maximum allowable reimbursement amount of $5,000 per business. This funding can be used specifically to offset intern wages, provided that those interns are paid no less than the federal minimum wage under the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938. Internships supported under the LAWDP must last no more than one year and must involve a minimum of 130 hours of paid work. Participating businesses are required to carry Workers' Compensation insurance for their interns, ensuring basic protections for both parties. Qualified business types include agricultural producers, businesses engaged in agriculture, and those offering agriculture-related support services. In turn, eligible interns must be either enrolled in a Louisiana secondary or postsecondary school or be classified as beginning farmers or ranchers. To apply, businesses must complete and email two documents—the Application Form and the Supplemental Questions Form—in a single email submission to agworkforce@ldaf.state.la.us. If selected, the intern or beginning farmer must subsequently complete an internship application, which will be provided by LAFA. Program staff may follow up with selected businesses or interns to confirm eligibility or request additional documentation. Contact for this opportunity is available through the Louisiana Agricultural Finance Authority. Inquiries can be made via email at agworkforce@ldaf.state.la.us or by phone at (225) 952-8162. With its annual application window and practical implementation requirements, this recurring program represents a stable opportunity for Louisiana agribusinesses to support workforce development while partially defraying the cost of hiring new talent.