Grants for Small businesses - Agriculture

Technical and financial assistance to venues aimed at attracting visitors to farm, winery, farmers market, or other agritourism providers. The Tennessee Department of Agriculture offers educational and marketing resources for established or developing agritourism operations. TDA holds workshops and an annual conference focusing on marketing, safety and other important issues. The Pick Tennessee Products campaign and website are valuable free marketing tools provided by the Business Development Division.

This program provides up to $5,000 to small, independently owned businesses in Arcadia, California, to help cover costs associated with permits for opening, expanding, or improving their commercial spaces.

The City of Dallas Office of Environmental Quality and Sustainability’s (OEQS) Urban Agriculture Division, in partnership with Dallas County Health and Human Services, is implementing an Urban Agriculture Infrastructure Support Program (UAISP). This grant program is designed to strengthen the capabilities of urban growers and farmers within the city of Dallas. The overarching mission alignment is to advance food security, foster healthier communities, and mitigate disparities within the local food system, directly addressing critical community needs through sustainable agricultural practices. The primary beneficiaries of this program are urban growers and farmers in Dallas. The program aims to assist them with the planning, design, and installation of eligible infrastructure, while also simplifying the permitting process. The key impact goals are to enhance the capacity of these growers, ultimately leading to a more robust and equitable local food system, improved access to healthy and safe foods, and a reduction in food-related disparities. The UAISP prioritizes projects focused on power and water infrastructure. Allowable expenditures include project plans/designs, counseling, utility connections (on or off-grid for water, off-grid for energy), contracted labor/installations, greenhouses/hoop houses, versatile high tunnels, cold storage equipment, grow light systems, and bee hives. Projects that directly support the production, aggregation, and/or processing of food through power or water infrastructure will receive preferential consideration during the application evaluation. Expected outcomes include a significant improvement in the infrastructure supporting urban agriculture, leading to increased food production and processing capabilities. Measurable results will likely involve the number of grants awarded, the types of infrastructure implemented (e.g., number of new irrigation systems, cold storage units, greenhouses), and the resulting impact on food security and community health within Dallas. The program's strategic priority is to build resilience in the local food system, with a theory of change that posits that by providing financial and technical support for essential infrastructure, urban growers will be empowered to expand their operations, thereby creating a more accessible, sustainable, and equitable food supply for the community.

This funding opportunity supports U.S.-based organizations in conducting research to better understand and manage heart-related side effects of cancer treatments, with a focus on improving detection, monitoring, and data sharing.

This funding opportunity supports a variety of organizations in California to develop and implement safer, sustainable pest management practices that protect public health and the environment while promoting economic vitality.

Farm Credit East recognizes the significance of farmers’ markets for both producers and consumers. In support of this vital marketing channel, we are offering Farmers' Market Grants of up to $500 to eligible applicants. These grants can be utilized to support participating farmers, enhance markets, improve marketing efforts, and implement programs aimed at aiding disadvantaged communities or enhancing access to fresh, local food. Please note that these grants are intended for public markets where multiple farms sell products, not for individual farm markets. Eligibility: Farmers' markets must be located within Farm Credit East’s eight-state territory: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont. Preference will be given to first-time applicants and markets serving underserved communities with limited access to fresh, local food. Awards will be granted at the sole discretion of Farm Credit East. How to Apply/Application Requirements: The 2024 application cycle is currently open. Please submit the Farmers' Market Grant Application by 4:00 PM on May 31. Recipients will be notified by late June.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to Connecticut-based organizations and businesses for developing infrastructure that strengthens the local food supply chain, focusing on enhancing the processing, storage, and distribution of regionally produced food products.

The Historical Society of Michigan's U.P. Centennial Farms grant opportunity is available for Upper Peninsula farming families who have owned and operated a working farm of 10 or more acres continuously for at least 100 years. This program aims to recognize the historical significance of these farms and their contribution to the culture and development of Michigan. Once certified through the Michigan Centennial Farm Program, owners will receive a certificate and a display marker for their farm. The green-and-yellow markers are sponsored by UPPCO in their Upper Peninsula service area. The following Centennial Farms have been recognized by UPPCO: - Augustus Schaffer Farm (1857) in Ontonagon, certified on 02/01/1962 - James Daniels Farm (1865) in Ontonagon, certified on 01/18/1966 - Jermiah Penegor Farm (1850) in Ontonagon, certified on 06/16/1966 - Alex Rheault Farm (1866) in Houghton, certified on 9/22/1969 - Patrick DeLoughary Farm (1882) in Menominee, certified on 04/15/1982 - August and Sophia Krans Farm (1882) in Iron, certified on 03/08/1985 - Joel David and Anna Millard Farm (1857) in Ontonagon, certified on 05/10/1985 - Peder Olaus Olsen Farm (1884) in Iron, certified on 09/23/1985 - Fred A. and Regina Hall Farm (1889) in Iron, certified on 05/20/1986 - Carl Kunde Farm (1881) in Marquette, certified on 11/24/1986 And many more farms have been recognized.

Launched in 2024, the TSCRA Leadership Development Foundation's Working Grant Program aims to support individuals in the beef industry, including ranching, beef production, or related areas supporting the beef value chain, who wish to start or grow their businesses. Financial assistance is provided to overcome barriers like equipment purchase, operational expenses, infrastructure building, or labor hiring. Eligibility is determined based on operation in economically depressed areas in Texas or Oklahoma, disadvantaged status, and difficulty in obtaining conventional financing. Grants are not guaranteed even if all eligibility requirements are met, and the foundation retains the discretion in funding decisions. Grant renewed every year. Grant Spring annual opening/closing deadline: May 1st to May 31st

Under the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA) and funded by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), Simplified Equipment-Only Grants are designed to support Pennsylvania's food system transformation. These grants, focusing on equipment purchases for small to mid-size producers and processors, aim to diversify, distribute, and localize food systems to enhance consumer access, producer options, and rural community markets. Grant amounts range from $10,000 to $100,000, requiring no cost sharing. Eligible equipment expenses include purchase costs, delivery, and installation if included in the official bid. Applications are accepted electronically, with project completion required by June 30, 2026.

This program provides funding to individuals, businesses, and organizations in Missouri for projects that increase local food production and availability, particularly in areas facing food insecurity.

Grant Opportunity: Short-term Teaching Artist Residency Program (Illinois) The Short-term Teaching Artist Residency Program in Illinois supports elementary schools, community centers, and public libraries in engaging teaching artists for short-term residencies. The program prioritizes advancing equity and access in the arts, particularly for underserved audiences such as BIPOC communities, individuals with disabilities, older adults, and those with limited access to the arts. Eligible applicants can request a minimum of $250 and a maximum of $4,500 to cover 75% of residency costs. Additional percentages can be added under specific conditions. Applicants must be tax-exempt organizations or units of government in Illinois, while the selected artists must be based in Illinois. The application deadline is at least eight weeks before the project start date. For more information, visit Short-term Teaching Artist Residency Program.

This program provides funding to Utah-based agricultural producers, processors, and organizations to improve food supply chain infrastructure and enhance market access for local food systems.

This program provides funding for Wisconsin-based small businesses, nonprofits, and local governments to purchase equipment that enhances the processing, storage, and distribution of locally produced food products.

Federal Awarding Agency Name: U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)Notice of Funding Opportunity Title: Kentucky NRCS Easement Restoration and Management AssistanceNotice of Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-NRCS-KY-EASE-24NOFO0001320Assistance Listing: This program is listed in the Assistance Listings (previously referred to as the Catalog of Federal Financial Assistance) on Sam.gov under 10.072 Wetlands ReserveProgram and 10.931 Agricultural Conservation Easement Program, which can be found at: https://sam.gov/content/home.SAM is a web-based, government-wide application that collects, validates, stores, and disseminates business information about the federal government's trading partners in support of the contract awards, grants, and electronic payment processes.Notice of Funding Opportunity SummaryThe Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), an agency under the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), is seeking support from natural resource conservation partners to work together to help enhance conservation delivery in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The overall intent of this announcement is to solicit partnerships to help enhance the implementation of key conservation objectives and priorities outlined further in this document.Proposals will be accepted from eligible entities as identified in Section C.1. of this announcement for competitive consideration of awards for projects between one (1) and (5) years in duration to deliver conservation programs and services in Kentucky. NRCS anticipates the amount of funding available for this announcement will be approximately $2,000,000 annually over a five year period (up to $10,000,000), which will be awarded to multiple recipients. All applicants must be capable of providing support throughout the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Entities may use this opportunity to request additional funding for existing Kentucky cooperative agreements.This notice identifies the objectives, eligibility criteria, and application instructions for projects. Proposals will be screened for completeness and compliance with the provisions of this notice. Incomplete and/or noncompliant applications may be eliminated from competition and notification of elimination will be sent to the applicant. The Kentucky State Conservationist reserves the right not to fund any or all applications. NRCS will accept applications under this notice for single or multiyear applications submitted by eligible entities.2For new users of Grants.gov, see Section D. of the full Notice of Funding Opportunity for information about steps required before submitting an application via Grants.gov.Key DatesApplicants must submit their applications via Grants.gov by 11:59 pm Eastern Time on June 30, 2024. For technical issues with Grants.gov, contact Grants.gov Applicant Support at 1-800-518-4726 or [email protected]. Awarding agency staff cannot support applicants regarding Grants.gov accounts.For inquiries specific to the content of the NFO requirements, contact the federal awarding agency contact (section G of this NFO). Please limit questions to those regarding specific information contained in this NFO (such as dates, page numbers, clarification of discrepancies, etc.). Questions related to eligibility, or the merits of a specific proposal will not be addressed.The agency anticipates making selections by August 1, 2024 and expects to execute awards by September 30,2024. These dates are estimates and are subject to change

The gBETA AgBioScience Accelerator is a free, seven-week pre-accelerator program designed for early-stage companies focusing on agriculture innovations, or "AgBioScience." It aims to help these companies achieve rapid growth and/or raise venture capital. The program is hosted by Gener8tor, a nationally ranked accelerator, and runs multiple times a year across the United States. While the AgBioScience program is based in Indianapolis, it incorporates both in-person and virtual components, making it accessible to a national pool of applicants. Gener8tor's broader mission aligns with fostering innovation and economic development by supporting promising startups through individualized coaching, mentorship, and access to resources. The primary target beneficiaries of the gBETA AgBioScience Accelerator are early-stage companies with a focus on agriculture innovations. These companies can range from those with just an idea to those with significant revenue, though most are typically post-product and pre-scale. The program seeks out entrepreneurs who are committed to their business, even if not yet full-time, and are ready to grow. The impact goals are centered on accelerating the development and market readiness of these AgBioScience companies, thereby contributing to advancements in agriculture and potentially creating new economic opportunities. The program's priorities and focuses include providing individualized coaching and mentorship on company growth and investor readiness. This is complemented by weekly "Lunch & Learns" and "Mentor Swarms," which offer opportunities for learning and networking. A significant focus is also placed on preparing companies for investor and accelerator pitches, crucial for securing funding. Furthermore, participants benefit from over $1 million in deals and perks from various vendors, providing valuable resources for their operations. The program also emphasizes ongoing post-program support and involvement within the gener8tor community. Expected outcomes and measurable results include the rapid growth of participating companies and their increased readiness to attract venture capital. Success can be measured by the number of companies that secure funding, the rate of their customer growth, and their overall advancement towards scaling their operations. The program also aims to build a stronger network within the AgBioScience sector. Gener8tor's strategic priorities are to identify and nurture high-potential startups, and their theory of change posits that intensive, individualized support, coupled with access to a robust network and resources, will significantly increase a startup's chances of success and contribute to regional and national economic vitality.

Funding and Duration: Grant amounts for the conventional program range from $100,000 to $500,000. The maximum grant duration is two (2) years, eight (8) months, and grant funds cannot be expended before November 1, 2025, or after June 30, 2028.   Projects submitted through the Additional Assistance for Historically Underrepresented Organizations (Additional Assistance) Program will range from $100,000 to $250,000. Program requirements and submission deadlines differ for Additional Assistance Program applicants. Please reference the 2025 Request for Concept Proposals - Additional Assistance Program or email [email protected] for more information.   CDFA reserves the right to offer an award amount different than the amount requested.    

This track of the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) program provides approximately $1 million for grants aimed at purchasing equipment necessary for the middle of the food supply chain activities in Vermont. The grants range from $30,000 to $100,000 with no match requirement. Applications for this track are set to open in late August 2024 and close in early October 2024, with grant activities beginning in early 2025.

The 2024 Dairy Digester Research and Development Program (DDRDP) and Alternative Manure Management Program (AMMP) offer grants, funded by the California State Budget, to support projects that reduce methane emissions from dairy and livestock operations in California, with a focus on funding new projects and those that have successfully implemented AMMP projects in the past.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to U.S.-based small businesses that have previously received Phase I awards to further develop and commercialize innovative research in agriculture, food systems, and environmental sustainability.