Grants for Nonprofits - Agriculture

This grant provides funding for nonprofit organizations in Gilroy and surrounding South County areas to support impactful projects in various fields, including education, health, and the environment.

The Massachusetts Food Ventures Program (MFVP) is a grant program designed to enhance access to healthy, affordable food options and generate economic opportunities within low to moderate income communities. It aligns with a broader mission to implement the goals of the Massachusetts Local Food Action Plan and contribute to the financial needs of local Massachusetts food enterprises. The program’s strategic approach emphasizes expanding investment to improve access to Massachusetts grown, harvested, or caught food products through the development of collaborations between local agricultural enterprises and private/public entities. The primary target beneficiaries of the MFVP are low to moderate income communities, including Gateway Cities and rural communities within Massachusetts. The program aims to improve commercial food access and distribution in these areas. The expected outcomes include increased availability of Massachusetts-produced foods, creation of new permanent jobs, greater access to affordable fresh food, and year-round access to diverse food production and distribution. The overall impact goal is to strengthen the local food system and foster equitable access to healthy food options. Key areas of investment for the MFVP include food processing infrastructure to meet the needs of the expanding local food system, improved distribution systems to support equitable access to fresh local food, and retail outlet strategies that enhance access to healthy food. Specific project types considered eligible reflect these priorities, such as the creation of commercial food processing infrastructure benefiting low and moderate income households, innovative proposals by commercial food commissaries that connect local farms, proposals for construction or renovation of food co-ops, development of greenhouses and farmers’ markets, and capital for food hubs. Additionally, the program focuses on innovative projects for commercial markets that connect local food producers and partners to develop or renovate large-scale retail markets for healthy, locally produced food. Mobile markets and other innovative market initiatives are also supported to purchase, design, and upgrade vehicles that provide healthy Massachusetts food. Each of these focus areas is intended to directly contribute to the program's theory of change, which posits that strategic investments in food infrastructure, distribution, and retail will lead to improved food access and economic opportunities for underserved communities. Applicants eligible for the MFVP include Massachusetts Municipalities, Massachusetts Non-Profit or For-Profit Organizations, and Individual Residents of Massachusetts. The program specifically excludes funding for audits, feasibility studies, design work, operation or maintenance costs, and reimbursement for already completed projects or staff/consultant time on proposals for completed projects. This ensures that the grants are directed towards new investments and initiatives that directly support the program’s objectives.

The Northeast SARE Professional Development Grant program aims to advance sustainable agriculture practices by enhancing the knowledge, awareness, skills, and attitudes of agricultural and other service providers. This directly aligns with the foundation's mission to support sustainable agriculture through education and professional development. The grant focuses on empowering professionals who work with farmers, enabling them to teach, advise, or assist in the adoption of sustainable methods. The program seeks to create a ripple effect, where trained service providers then apply their learned expertise to help farmers improve their agricultural practices, fostering a more sustainable food system within the Northeast region. The primary beneficiaries of this program are agricultural service providers, including those in non-profit organizations, colleges, universities, Cooperative Extension, and other entities that serve the farming community. Additionally, the program extends its reach to other service providers such as real estate agents, bankers, and attorneys, who can indirectly influence farmers. The overarching impact goal is to cultivate a more resilient and sustainable agricultural landscape in the Northeast by equipping these professionals with the necessary tools and knowledge. Expected outcomes include increased adoption of sustainable and climate-smart agricultural practices by farmers, improved ecological and economic resilience to climate change, and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. The program prioritizes a wide array of topics, encompassing marketing and business, crop production, raising livestock, aquaculture, social sustainability, urban and Indigenous agriculture, and traditional ecological knowledge. A significant focus is placed on climate-smart agriculture practices, which are intended to improve ecological, social, and economic resilience to climate change. This includes practices such as reduced and no-till farming, cover cropping, prescribed grazing, ruminant feed management, manure management, fertilizer management, and on-farm energy efficiency. The program's strategic priorities are clearly aligned with addressing contemporary agricultural challenges through education and practical application. Northeast SARE actively encourages projects from, or in collaboration with, women, the LGBTQIA+ community, and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). Furthermore, it encourages proposals from Minority Serving Institutions and other organizations in the Northeast that work with historically underserved communities, demonstrating a commitment to equity and inclusivity in agricultural development. The theory of change behind these priorities is that by supporting a diverse range of voices and institutions, the program can foster more innovative and equitable solutions for sustainable agriculture, leading to broader and more effective adoption of sustainable practices across the region. The expected measurable results include an increase in the number of service providers trained in sustainable agriculture, a documented increase in farmers adopting climate-smart practices, and the successful implementation of projects that demonstrate improved ecological, social, and economic resilience. Awards typically range from $30,000 to $150,000, with project lengths usually spanning 2 to 3 years, and a maximum allowed duration of 3.5 years. The program's geographical focus is exclusively on the Northeast region, which includes Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, West Virginia, Vermont, and Washington, D.C., ensuring targeted and localized impact within this specific area.

USDA/FAS will accept applications for projects in the following priority countries: Angola, Bangladesh, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Guatemala, Guinea-Bissau, Laos, Malawi, and Rwanda. Of these, Angola and El Salvador are countries that do not currently have active McGovern-Dole projects. Applicants are advised to refer to Appendix B: Country Specific Guidance for country-specific information on program emphasis and agency priorities. USDA/FAS will also accept applications for non-priority countries; however, it will prioritize funding applications for the identified priority countries. McGovern-Dole projects are implemented in low-income, food-deficit countries globally.

This grant provides funding to Maine-based agricultural producers, processors, and organizations to enhance the capacity and resilience of the food supply chain through the purchase of essential equipment.

The Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are offering the Step Up for School Wellness (SUFSW) grant, an innovative program designed to empower school health leaders, educators, administrators, families, and communities. This initiative aims to improve the health and well-being of K-12 students and staff across all public, charter, or private nonprofit schools in Michigan. The program aligns with the foundation's mission by fostering healthier school environments and cultivating a culture of wellness, which directly contributes to the development of lifelong healthy behaviors. The primary beneficiaries of this program are K-12 students and school staff throughout Michigan. The program's core impact goals revolve around reducing the incidence of obesity and undernourishment, combating absenteeism, addressing trauma, and nurturing a more productive teaching and learning atmosphere. Through a five-step model, the SUFSW program translates into specific goals focused on improving knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to health and wellness. The program prioritizes several key areas, including empowering students to be more physically active daily and make healthy food choices that incorporate fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy, whole grains, and lean protein. Furthermore, it aims to empower students to learn and practice social and emotional skills, and equip staff to implement and participate in well-being initiatives. A significant focus is also placed on encouraging staff to instigate policy, system, and environmental changes that bolster the well-being of both students and staff within schools. Expected outcomes include improved physical activity levels, healthier eating habits, enhanced social and emotional skills among students, and a stronger culture of wellness for all school employees. The program also anticipates policy and environmental changes within schools that support overall well-being. These measurable results are driven by three distinct focus areas: physical activity and physical education resources, healthy eating and nutrition education resources, and well-being resources, all working towards a greater collective impact.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to community-based organizations in Minnesota to deliver job training, mentorship, and entrepreneurial skills development for individuals from communities of color and low-income backgrounds, focusing on high-growth industries.

The Enhancing Agricultural Opportunities for Military Veterans Program provides grants to non-profits to increase the number of military veterans gaining knowledge and skills through comprehensive, hands-on and immersive model farm and ranch programs offered regionally that lead to successful careers in the food and agricultural sector. The program encourages the development of training opportunities specifically designed for military veterans. AgVets projects will offer onsite, hands-on training and classroom education leading to a comprehensive understanding of successful farm and ranch operations and management practices. Projects may also offer workforce readiness and employment prospects for service-disabled veterans. Ensuring there are pathways for military veterans interested in pursuing careers in agriculture regardless of age or production choice strengthens agricultural production and rural economies across the United States. NIFA requests applications for the AgVets to provide grants to nonprofit organizations for training programs and services to establish and enhance farming and ranching opportunities for military veterans.

The San Francisco Bay Restoration Authority, a regional government agency, allocates funds for restoring and enhancing wetland and wildlife habitats along the San Francisco Bay shoreline. Grants exceeding $1 million are available for projects lasting up to five years, with a deadline of September 20, 2024. Eligible projects must be located within the nine Bay Area counties—Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, and Sonoma—and align with priorities outlined in Measure AA. These priorities include maximizing positive environmental impacts, ensuring geographic distribution, leveraging additional resources, and benefiting economically disadvantaged communities. The Authority funds various project phases, including planning, construction, and scientific studies, provided they support habitat restoration, flood management, or public access initiatives. Projects must meet specific criteria related to improving water quality, enhancing wildlife habitats, providing flood protection, and improving public access. Eligible applicants include federal, state, and local agencies, tribal governments, nonprofits, and shoreline parcel owners in the San Francisco Bay Area. For more information, visit the San Francisco Bay Restoration Authority website.

The 2024 AMMP and DDRDP grants, funded by the California State Budget and the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, aim to provide financial support for projects that reduce methane emissions from dairy and livestock operations, with a focus on alternative manure management and dairy digester research and development.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations, schools, churches, hospitals, and government entities in Arkansas to improve access to locally grown foods, particularly in underserved areas.

This grant provides funding for research projects that help improve production practices and address challenges faced by iceberg lettuce farmers in Arizona.

The Fairs Capital Improvement Grant Program provides essential funding to certified agricultural fairs in Pennsylvania for the construction, renovation, and maintenance of fairground structures. Eligible fairs can receive up to $25,000 in grants, which require a 50% funding match by the recipients. This reimbursement grant aims to support the physical infrastructure of fairgrounds, enhancing their capacity to host agricultural events. Grant funds can be used for various projects, including new construction, renovation of existing buildings, utility upgrades, fencing improvements, roadway and pathway development, stormwater management, public address system installations, and land purchases. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual deadline: June 30th

The RFSP supports partnerships that connect public and private resources to plan and develop local or regional food systems. The RFSP focuses on building and strengthening local or regional food economy viability and resilience, and this includes pandemic response and recovery. Applicants will work with their partners to catalyze the development of local or regional food systems. Applicants will coordinate efforts within the partnership to set priorities, connect resources and services, and measure progress towards common goals. Partnerships are authorized to:Determine the size and scope of the local or regional food system in which the projects goals, outreach objectives, and eligible activities are to be carried out,Coordinate with AMS to receive technical assistance, andConduct outreach and education for potential participation in the partnership agreement and eligible activities.Partnerships must bring a variety of financial and technical capabilities, demonstrate experience or readiness to work effectively and collaboratively with public and private entities across sectors, and present innovative, sustainable, and measurable approaches to achieving the projects goals. RFSP grant recipients may apply for other LAMP programs on behalf of producers or eligible entities that desire to participate in eligible activities under the partnership agreement.

The purpose of this research is to systematically evaluate the diastereomeric composition of LEQVIO (Inclisiran), an FDA-approved, N-acetyl galactosamine (GalNAc)-conjugated siRNA drug, and to understand the biological/pharmacological activity of each diastereomer in LEQVIO through stereo chemically controlled synthesis and biological activity assessment using in vitro and animal models. The proposed studies will focus on 1) synthesis of each diastereomer of LEQVIO (Inclisiran) in stereo chemically pure form; 2) assessment of the biological activity of each stereo chemically pure diastereomer in inhibiting PCSK9 activity using in vitro assays and in a transgenic mouse model; 3) development of analytical methods to identify and characterize the stereochemical structure of each diastereomer in LEQVIO; and 4) assessment of the individual contribution of each diastereomer to the overall pharmacological activity of LEQVIO. Tools developed in this research can also be applied to other similar GalNAc-conjugated siRNAs specifically, and other siRNAs in general. Knowledge gained from this research will also contribute to the sameness evaluation of generic siRNAs, and to the quality control of oligonucleotide drugs.

The EQT Foundation Grant program is designed to support nonprofits that demonstrate positive, needed, and trusted impacts within their communities. The foundation is deeply committed to fostering education and training for both children and adults, developing diverse and livable communities, and preserving natural environments. This mission aligns with their belief in meaningful community engagement and responsible corporate citizenship, emphasizing trust-based philanthropy to ensure resources directly contribute to community stability and, in turn, support successful business operations in their operational footprint. The foundation's funding strategy prioritizes organizations and programs that directly impact community residents. They seek proposals grounded in analysis that demonstrate creative approaches to addressing critical issues. The target beneficiaries include children and adults receiving education and training, residents of diverse and livable communities, and those benefiting from natural environment preservation efforts. The impact goals revolve around creating positive and needed change, fostering community stability, and contributing to the overall well-being of the areas where EQT Corporation operates. The EQT Foundation focuses on three core areas: Community Enrichment, Education & Workforce, and Environment. Community Enrichment encourages the development of diverse, safe, healthy, and sustainable communities, with examples ranging from food banks and libraries to arts programs and community festivals. Education & Workforce aims to promote STEM proficiency for youth and create a skilled future workforce through initiatives like in-school STEM curricula, computer camps, and career planning. The Environment focus supports natural resource preservation and educates communities on conservation techniques, including community gardens, watershed conservation, and green space restoration. Beyond these thematic priorities, the EQT Foundation also seeks evidence of a geographic setting that aligns with EQT Corporation’s business locations, effective management of available resources, and outreach that garners solid public recognition and support for the nonprofit, its programs, and sponsors. While specific expected outcomes and measurable results are not detailed, the emphasis on "positive, needed, and trusted impacts" and "creative approaches to addressing critical issues" suggests a commitment to tangible community benefits. The foundation's theory of change appears to be that by strategically investing in education, community development, and environmental preservation in their operational areas, they contribute to the long-term stability and success of these communities, which in turn supports their business operations.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in Massachusetts for reentry programs aimed at helping young adults transition successfully from incarceration to the community, thereby reducing recidivism and enhancing public safety.

This program provides financial assistance to farmers in Howard County, Maryland, who have suffered losses due to the extreme heat and drought conditions of 2024.

This funding opportunity supports research projects that promote innovation and development in North Carolina's agricultural economy, targeting universities, non-profits, and businesses involved in agriculture.

This program provides funding to organizations that improve bison production and marketing, particularly benefiting small farms, tribal groups, and underserved communities across the United States.