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Grants and Incentives for Northeast Agriculture Report by Farm Credit East Knowledge Exchange

Updated: July 2026

Message from Farm Credit East Farm Credit East extends more than $14 billion in loans and has local offices throughout its eight-state service area. In addition to loans and leases, the organization also offers a full range of specialized financial services, such as tax preparation, payroll, record keeping, appraisal and consulting for farming, forest products and commercial fishing businesses. Your agricultural business is your livelihood, and Farm Credit East is here to help make your business successful. Farm Credit East’s Knowledge Exchange team gives you access to the financial and management knowledge and expertise you need to enhance and strengthen your business. For the most up to date reports, industry updates, webinars and reports, please visit the Resources section of the Farm Credit East website. This document contains grants and other incentives available in the Northeast states of Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont as well as, for the first time, Pennsylvania. The listings include grant programs, tax incentives, loan programs and other forms of assistance from various funding sources available to agricultural producers and other entities involved in agriculture or related industries. Please note that as grant programs often change, this list should not be viewed as a comprehensive compilation of all grant opportunities. The eligibility requirements listed underneath each grant program may be subject to change every year. Interested parties should consult other sources, such as your state’s department of agriculture, to identify all potential sources of grants and incentives. We hope you find this report to be a useful resource. Visit FarmCreditEast.com/Resources to stay informed. Thank you for continuing to choose Farm Credit East, Farm Credit East Knowledge Exchange July 2026 Report compiled by Isabella Esposito and Ethan Karches

TABLE OF CONTENTS Message from Farm Credit East ................................................................................2 Farm Credit East Resources for Farmers ...................................................................4 Federal/Regional Grants and Incentives ....................................................................6 Beginning Farmers .................................................................................................................................... 6 Conservation, Environment and Forestry ................................................................................................. 8 Dairy ........................................................................................................................................................ 15 Energy ..................................................................................................................................................... 17 Fisheries and Aquaculture ...................................................................................................................... 18 Organic .................................................................................................................................................... 20 Research, Education, and Promotion ..................................................................................................... 22 Row Crops ............................................................................................................................................... 25 Rural Business & Cooperatives ............................................................................................................... 26 Additional Resources .............................................................................................................................. 30

State Grants and Incentives ......................................................................................32 Connecticut ............................................................................................................................................. 32 Maine ...................................................................................................................................................... 38 Massachusetts ........................................................................................................................................ 43 New Hampshire....................................................................................................................................... 53 New Jersey .............................................................................................................................................. 55 New York ................................................................................................................................................. 59 Pennsylvania ........................................................................................................................................... 65 Rhode Island............................................................................................................................................ 70 Vermont .................................................................................................................................................. 72

Disclaimer ................................................................................................................78

Farm Credit East Resources for Farmers Farm Credit East offers a wide range of financial products, business services and management support designed to help agricultural operations of all sizes succeed. In addition to financing, the organization provides tax planning and preparation, recordkeeping, appraisals, business consulting, estate planning, financial benchmarking, grant writing, and access to its secure Farm Credit Connect digital portal. Farm Credit East also supports young, beginning, small, and veteran farmers through specialized programs and incentives, including service discounts and payment of USDA loan guarantee fees. Serving more than 16,000 producers across farming, forestry, livestock, fishing, and related agribusiness industries, Farm Credit East helps agricultural businesses improve profitability, growth, and long-term sustainability. This section provides an overview of some of the financial resources and tools offered by Farm Credit East. You can also read more about Farm Credit East Financing and Farm Credit East's Financial Services on our website. AgEnhancement Grants Each year, Farm Credit East and CoBank award grants ranging from $500 to $10,000 to help organizations promote awareness and strengthen agriculture, commercial fishing and forest products industries in the six New England states, New York and New Jersey. This grant is focused on organizations and nonprofits promoting agriculture, not individual farms. For more information, check out the AgEnhancement Grant webpage. Farmers Market Grants Farmers markets provide an important channel for Northeast producers to market and sell their products as well as connect with consumers. That's why we've seen a significant increase in these markets across the region over the past two decades. To support this important marketing channel, Farm Credit East offers Farmers Market Grants up to $500. Fore more information, check out the Farmers Market Grants webpage. FarmStart FarmStart makes working capital investments of up to $125,000 in beginning farmers who work with an advisor on business planning and financial management. For more information, check out the Farm Start webpage. Food Access Infrastructure Grant Farm Credit East's Food Access Infrastructure Initiative financially supports organizations with grants of up to $50,000 as they work to improve food security and food access in the Northeast. Organizations must be located within Farm Credit East's territory. Awards will be made at the sole discretion of the selection committee. For more information, check out the Food Access Infrastructure Initiative Grant webpage. 4

GenerationNext GenerationNext is an educational series that enhances the overall business knowledge and management ability of next generation managers and young producers. For more information, check out the Generation Next webpage. Grant Writing Services Farm Credit East offers a fee-based grant writing services to help farms and agribusinesses grow, change or expand their enterprises. For more information, check out the Grant Writing Services webpage. Harvesting a Profit A profitability guide and financial primer for farmers beginning a career in agriculture, or for those who would like to increase their financial knowledge. For more information, check out the Harvesting a Profit webpage.

Federal/Regional Grants and Incentives This section lists programs available throughout the region, followed by a section of statespecific opportunities. Please visit the links below each description for due dates, requirements and other information. In some cases, the grant application deadline has passed for this year, but it is still included in this listing if Farm Credit East has reason to believe that the program will be continued in future years. Most of these programs are administered by federal and state agencies or other third parties, so while Farm Credit East believes these sources to be reliable, Farm Credit East does not make any representation or warranty regarding the accuracy of the program information or the linked sites.

Beginning Farmers Agriculture Innovation Center Program The Agriculture Innovation Center (AIC) Program provides grant funding to organizations that support agricultural producers in developing, expanding, and marketing value-added agricultural products. Funds may be used to provide business planning, market development, financial and technical advisory services, product and process development, value chain coordination, and limited direct assistance grants to agricultural producers. The program is designed to strengthen agricultural businesses, improve market access, and support innovation across the agricultural sector. Eligible Recipients • Commercial Organizations • Indian Tribes • Institutions of Higher Education • Local Governments • Nonprofit Organizations • State Governments Funding Amount: Up to $1,000,000 For more information, check out the Agriculture Innovation Center Program Webpage Farmer Veteran Fellowship Fund Sponsor/Agency: Farmer Veteran Coalition The Farmer Veteran Fellowship Fund provides direct assistance to veterans in their beginning years of farming or ranching. The fund supports purchases from third-party vendors for resources to assist in the startup of a farm business. Eligible Recipients: Farmer Veteran Coalition Members with Agricultural Businesses Funding Amount: $1,000-$5,000 For more information, check out the Farmer Vetran Fellowship Fund Webpage 6

The Carrot Project Sponsor/Agency: The Carrot Project For over 15 years, The Carrot Project has worked with farm and food businesses in New England and the Hudson Valley, supporting their successes by helping them build the financial management skills needed to help their businesses thrive. The Carrot Project offers free or lowcost business technical assistance and consulting, as well as a beginning farmer loan program. Eligible Recipients: • Farm, Forestry and Fishery Businesses in New England. • Processing, Distribution, and Storage enterprises that use any type of local agricultural product Funding Amount: $5,000-$250,000 For more information, check out The Carrot Project Webpage

Conservation, Environment and Forestry Agricultural Management Assistance Sponsor/Agency: USDA National Resources Conservation Service The Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA) program provides financial and technical assistance to agricultural producers to voluntarily address issues such as water management, water quality and erosion control by incorporating conservation into their farming operations. Producers may construct or improve water management structures or irrigation structures; plant trees for windbreaks or to improve water quality; and mitigate risk through production diversification or resource conservation practices, including soil erosion control, integrated pest management or transition to organic farming. Eligible Recipients: Livestock or Agricultural Producers Funding Amount: up to $50,000 For more information, check out the Agricultural Management Assistance Webpage Brighter Future Fund Sponsor/Agency: American Farmland Trust The American Farmland Trust (AFT) Brighter Future Fund grants help drive new solutions for resolving key challenges facing our society by increasing the resilience of farms to climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening local food systems, creating greater equity in opportunities for underserved farmers, ensuring the availability of sufficient clean water and habitat for threatened wildlife, and improving farm viability and community vitality. Previous Brighter Future Fund grants included the National Farm Viability Grant, Regenerate VA, and New England Regenerative Livestock Farming Grants. Check the AFT website for up-to-date information. Eligible Recipients: • Applicants must be based in the U.S. • Must be a for-profit business with proof of income • Must have proof of financial hardship as a direct result of disruptive events in recent months Funding Amount: Subject to the details of the grant For more information, check out the Brighter Future Fund Webpage

Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) Sponsor/Agency: USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) CIG provides funding for innovative conservation projects that improve soil health, water quality, air quality, and wildlife habitat on private lands. Eligible Recipients: • State and local governments • Tribal governments • Nonprofit organizations • Colleges and universities • Private organizations and individuals Funding Amount: USDA is providing $65 million for national CIG projects this year. For more information, check out the Conservation Innovation Grant Webpage Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program Sponsor/Agency: USDA Farm Service Agency The Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) targets high-priority conservation concerns identified by a state, providing federal funds which are supplemented with non-federal funds to address those concerns. In exchange for removing environmentally sensitive land from production and establishing permanent resource conserving plant species, farmers are paid an annual rental rate along with other federal and state incentives as applicable per each CREP agreement. Participation is voluntary, and the contract period is typically 10-15 years. Eligible Recipients: • States • Tribal Governments • Non-profit and Private Entities Funding Amount: up to $50,000 For more information, check out the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program Webpage Conservation Reserve Program Sponsor/Agency: USDA Farm Service Agency The Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) is a land conservation program administered by the Farm Service Agency (FSA). In exchange for a yearly rental payment, farmers enrolled in the program agree to remove environmentally sensitive land from agricultural production and plant species that will improve environmental health and quality. Contracts for land enrolled in CRP are 10-15 years in length. Eligible Recipients: Producers who have owned and operated the land 12 months prior signing up (some exceptions may apply) Funding Amount: Participants receive annual rental payments based on soil productivity and the average cash rental rates in the county. Cost-share assistance is also available for up to 50% of the cost of establishing approved conservation practices. For more information, check out the Conservation Reserve Program Webpage 9

Conservation Stewardship Program Sponsor/Agency: USDA National Resources Conservation Service The Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) helps agricultural producers maintain and improve their existing conservation systems and adopt additional conservation activities to address priority concerns. Eligible Recipients: Agricultural and Forest Producers interested in conservation and environmental stewardship Funding Amount: Most participants will be eligible for a $4,000 minimum payment during any year that their total annual contract payment falls below the minimum payment amount. For more information, check out the Conservation Stewardship Program Webpage Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) Sponsor/Agency: Farm Service Agency This program helps farmers and ranchers to repair damage caused by natural disasters and to help set up water conservation methods during drought. Eligible Recipients: Land damaged by natural disasters inspected by the FSA county committee and meet eligible criteria. Funding Amount: $50,000-$100,000+ For more information, check out the Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) Webpage Emergency Forest Restoration Program Sponsor/Agency: Farm Service Agency This program helps to rebuild non-industrial forest owners and restore forest health through financial assistance. Eligible Recipients: Land damaged by natural disasters inspected by the FSA county committee and harms the natural resources on the land and affects future land use. Funding Amount: $50,000-$500,000 For more information, check out the Emergency Forest Restoration Program Webpage Emergency Watershed Protection Program Sponsor/Agency: USDA National Resources Conservation Service The Emergency Watershed Protection Program (EWP) was established by Congress to respond to emergencies created by natural disasters. The EWP is designed to help people and conserve natural resources by relieving imminent hazards to life and property caused by floods, fires, drought, windstorms and other natural occurrences. Eligible Recipients: Public and Private Landowners (must be represented by a project sponsor) Funding Amount: up to 75% of eligible construction costs For more information, check out the Emergency Watershed Protection Program Webpage

Environmental Quality Incentives Program Sponsor/Agency: USDA National Resources Conservation Service The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) is a voluntary program that provides financial and technical assistance to agricultural producers to plan and implement conservation practices that improve soil, water, plant, animal, air and related natural resources on agricultural land and non-industrial private forestland. Eligible Recipients: Farmers, Ranchers, and Forest Landowners who own or rent agricultural land Funding Amount: Subject to the details of the grant For more information, check out the Environmental Quality Incentives Program Webpage Expanding Agroforestry Project Sponsor/Agency: The Nature Conservancy The Expanding Agroforestry Project provides financial incentives and marketing and technical support for farmers interested in planting productive trees on their land for shade in pastures, for fruit, nut or timber production in agroforestry systems, or as windbreaks along the boundaries of fields. Eligible Recipients: Farmers who are (or can become) registered with their local FSA office. See the FAQ for more eligibility information. Funding Amount: Up to $450,000 For more information, check out the Expanding Agroforestry Project Webpage and the Project FAQ linked there. High Tunnel System Initiative Sponsor/Agency: USDA National Resources Conservation Service A part of the EQIP program, the NRCS High Tunnel System Initiative is a conservation program that helps individuals and legal entities engaged in agricultural production install high tunnel (“hoop house”) greenhouses to extend their growing season. Eligible Recipients: • Agricultural Producers • Owners of Non-Industrial Private Forestland • Indian Tribes • Individuals with an interest in Agricultural or Forestry operations • Water Management Entities Funding Amount: Cost share, amount subject to the details of the application For more information, check out the High Tunnel System Initiative Webpage

Landscape Scale Restoration Grants Sponsor/Agency: USDA Forest Service The purpose of the Landscape Scale Restoration (LSR) competitive grant program is to encourage collaborative, science-based restoration of priority forest landscapes, leverage public and private resources, and support priorities identified in State Forest Action Plans. The LSR request for applications comes out once per year. Eligible Recipients: • State Forestry Agencies or other appropriate State Agencies • Units of Local Governments • Indian Tribes • Non-Profit Organizations Funding Amount: up to 50% of project costs For more information, check out the Landscape Scale Restoration Grants Webpage New England Grassroots Grants Sponsor/Agency: New England Grassroots Environment Fund The Grassroots Fund interprets the word ‘environment’ broadly and will provide funding for a wide range of community-based environmental projects, including those involving agriculture and food systems. Grow grants are geared to established groups who are ready to expand the scope of their work. Seed grants are geared to groups launching new projects and/or evolving the scale of an existing project. Grants are intended to support community groups that are not being reached by traditional funders. Eligible Recipients: Groups doing work in CT, ME, MA, NH, RI, and VT Funding Amount: $1,000 - $4,000 for Grow Grants, $500 - $1,000 for Seed Grants For more information, check out The Grow Grants Webpage and The Seed Grants Webpage Northeast Farmers Fund Sponsor/ Agency: Wolfe's Neck Center for Agriculture and the Environment This fund is designed to support adoption of regenerative agricultural practices by local producers. Through generous contributions from food companies and retailers, philanthropic gifts and grant funding, the program provides direct assistance for practices and infrastructure that preserve local farms, strengthen regional food systems and build resilience to climate impacts. Eligible Recipients: The Northeast Farmers Fund aims to enroll approximately 385 Northeast farmers between 2026 and 2028 Funding Amount: dependent on application; up to $20 million between 2026 and 2028 For more information, check out the Northeast Farmers Fund Webpage.

Pasa AMP: Business Development and Marketing Activities Sponsor/ Agency: Pasa Sustainable Agriculture Financial support of $15,000 or more to help you improve the production, business, and marketing sides of your farm. This funding bucket is broad and designed to support farmers meet their business development needs. Expanding markets needs to be the goal of all project and purchases, and we can help design your application request to best meet your needs and full advantage of this opportunity. Eligible Recipients: Farmers from Maine to South Carolina. You need to have an account with FSA to access this grant. Funding Amount: $15,000 or more For more information, check out the grant program description on this NOFA Vermont Webpage. Pasa AMP: Conservation Practice Installation and Technical Assistance Sponsor/ Agency: Pasa Sustainable Agriculture Financial support of $55,000 or more to implement a suite of NRCS conservation practices. There are 36 eligible practices including agroforestry practices, fencing (including exclusion fencing), high tunnels, livestock shelters, soil carbon amendment, micro irrigation, and more. A Pasa Technical Assistance Provider (TAP) will work with you to plan, map, and contract the conservation practices that meet your needs. NOFA staff can help with implementation support if needed. Eligible Recipients: Farmers from Maine to South Carolina Funding Amount: $55,000 or more For more information, check out the grant program description on this NOFA Vermont Webpage. Pasa AMP: Soil Testing Sponsor/ Agency: Pasa Sustainable Agriculture Unlimited reimbursement for any and all soil testing, as many samples as you have, as many times as you want to test. Eligible Recipients: Farmers from Maine to South Carolina Funding Amount: Unlimited reimbursement For more information, check out the grant program description on this NOFA Vermont Webpage.

The Fruit Guys Community Fund Sponsor/Agency: The Fruit Guys Community Fund This fund was created to provide grants to small farms and agricultural nonprofits that support sustainable agriculture projects with large positive impacts on the environment, local food webs, and farm diversity. Eligible Recipients: Small U.S. farms of 250 acres or less and qualified 501(c)(3) agricultural nonprofits. Applicants must own or operate the farm or have long-term legal access to the land. For-profit farms must have operated for at least 2 years, and nonprofits for at least 3 years. Funding Amount: Up to $5,000 For more information, check out The Fruit Guys Community Fund Webpage

Dairy Dairy Farm Improvement & Modernization Grant Sponsor/Agency: Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center (NE-DBIC) This grant will fund projects that help dairy farmers improve their operations for long-term success. Eligible projects may modernize outdated systems or introduce innovative solutions to improve farm viability, reduce climate impacts, improve milk quality or value, improve worker conditions, and strengthen the farm’s ability to respond to challenges. Eligible Recipients: • Licensed Dairy Farmers/Producers based in the Northeast • Producer Associations that represent, support, or promote dairy products originating from the Northeast • Technical Service Providers Funding Amount: $15,000-$100,000; 25% in-kind and/or cash match contribution required For more information, check out the Dairy Farm Improvement & Modernization Grant Webpage Dairy Indemnity Payment Program (DIPP) Sponsor/Agency: USDA Farm Service Agency The (DIPP) program was created to help support dairy farmers when they get baches of contaminated milk. The program provides payments to farmers who cannot sell their milk on the commercial market due to contamination from residues, chemicals, toxic substances, or nuclear radiation. This helps farmers to recover from the loss in products and continue their operations. Eligible Recipients: Dairy producers who have experienced milk contamination or have had to remove dairy cows from production due to residues, chemicals, toxic substances, or nuclear radiation Funding Amount: Dependent on quantity of dairy products and cows that were contaminated For more information, check out the Dairy Indemnity Payment Program (DIPP) Webpage Dairy Margin Coverage Program (DMC) Sponsor/Agency: USDA Farm Service Agency The (DMC) program was created to protect dairy farmers from decreases in milk prices and increases in feed prices. It will protect farmers when the margin between the all-milk price and average feed cost falls below the coverage level chosen by the producer. There are different levels of coverage, but by enrolling in this program you can hedge away some of the risk that is involved with price fluctuations of commodities. Eligible Recipients: Dairy farmers in the United States that produce and commercially market milk from cows Funding Amount: Dependent on the coverage you buy and prices of milk and feed For more information, check out the Dairy Margin Coverage Program (DMC) Webpage

Dairy Processor Modernization Grant Sponsor/Agency: Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center (NE-DBIC) Funds will support dairy processors and dairy brands in modernizing their production to allow for increased processing of regional dairy, long-term business viability, and ability to meet consumer demands. Projects funded through this grant will focus primarily on acquiring specialized equipment for dairy processing that offers benefits such as increased capacity, higher efficiency, reduced energy usage, increased quality, or ability to produce new or higher-value products. Eligible Recipients: Dairy processors and dairy brands that market Northeast dairy products produced by a licensed dairy processor under a co-packing or other arrangement. Funding Amount: $1,000,000 total funds available. For more information, check out the Dairy Processor Modernization Grant Webpage

Energy Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Sponsor/Agency: USDA Rural Development The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) provides grants and loans to farmers and businesses for energy efficiency improvements and purchase of wind, solar or other renewable energy systems, and provides grants to help farmers with energy audits and renewable energy development. Eligible Recipients: Agricultural Producers and Small Businesses Funding Amount: up to 75% of total eligible project costs For more information, check out the Rural Energy for America Program Webpage. Rural Energy for America Program Energy Audit & Renewable Energy Development Assistance Grants Sponsor/Agency: USDA Rural Development This program assists rural small businesses and agricultural producers by conducting and promoting energy audits and providing Renewable Energy Development Assistance (REDA). Eligible Recipients: • State and Local Governments • Federally Recognized Tribes • Land-Grant Universities or other Institutions of Higher Education • Rural Electric Cooperatives • Public Power Entities • Instrumentalities of State, Tribal, or Local Government • Resource Conservation & Development Councils Funding Amount: up to $100,000 For more information, check out the Rural Energy for America Program Webpage

Fisheries and Aquaculture Commercial Fishing Occupational Safety Training Grants Sponsor/Agency: Centers for Disease Control-ERA The goal of the training grant program is to enhance the quality and availability of safety training for United States commercial fisherman. Availability includes the frequency, geographic considerations, channels or partners of dissemination, culturally and/or educationally appropriate training material, and other characteristics of a successful training program. Eligible Recipients: • County Governments • Native American Tribal Governments • Private Institutions of Higher Education • City or Township Governments • Public and State Controlled Institutions of Higher Education • For-Profit Organizations • Small Businesses, State Governments • Non-Profits, Special District Governments • Public Housing Authorities • Indian Housing Authorities • Independent School Districts Funding Amount: $150,000-$975,000 For more information, check out the Commercial Fishing Research and Training Webpage NOAA Fisheries Grant Opportunities Sponsor/Agency: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), an agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce, offers grant opportunities to national and New England producers and processors. For the most current open opportunities, visit the link below. Eligible Recipients: Depends on Grant Funding Amount: Depends on Grant For more information, check out the NOAA Fisheries Grant Webpage

Saltonstall-Kennedy Grant Program Sponsor/Agency: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)The SaltonstallKennedy Grant Program funds projects that address the needs of fishing communities, optimize economic benefits by building and maintaining sustainable fisheries, and increase other opportunities to keep working waterfronts viable. Eligible Recipients: • US Citizens • Citizens of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Republic of Palau, or Federated States of Micronesia • Individuals representing Corporations, Partnerships, Associations, Non-Federal Entities, and Non-Profits, etc. that are citizens of the US Funding Amount: up to $500,000 For more information, check out the Saltonstall-Kennedy Grant Competition Webpage

Organic National Organic Initiative Sponsor Agency: USDA National Resources Conservation Service Part of EQIP, this initiative provides technical and financial assistance to organic farmers/ranchers, and those looking to transition to organic. Funding can be used to improve operations, help producers’ transition or to develop conservation plans. Eligible Recipients: • Certified Organic Producers • Producers exempt from certification of the NOP • Producers transitioning to organic Funding Amount: up to $140,000 over 4 years For more information, check out the Organic Initiative Webpage Organic Certification Cost Share Program Sponsor/Agency: USDA Farm Service Agency Organic farmers and processors can receive payments for up to 75% of their annual organic certification costs, up to $750. Producers must be certified by an organization that is recognized by USDA. Eligible Requirements: Certified Organic Producers and Handlers who have paid certification fees during the 2023 program years Funding Amount: up to $750 For more information, check out the Organic Certification Cost Share Program Webpage Organic Market Development Grant Sponsor/Agency: USDA Agricultural Marketing Service The Organic Market Development Grant (OMDG) program supports the development of new and expanded organic markets to help increase the consumption of domestic organic agricultural commodities. OMDG aims to increase availability and demand for domestically produced organic agricultural products and address the critical need for additional market paths. OMDG offers three project types: Simplified Equipment-Only, Market Development and Promotion, and Processing Capacity Expansion projects. Eligible Recipients: • Business Entities who produce or handle organic foods • Non-Profit Organizations • Trade Associations • Tribal/State/Territory/Local Government Entities Funding Amount: $10,000-$3,000,000 (Dependent on Type of Project) For more information, check out the Organic Market Development Grant Webpage

Simply Organic 1% Fund Grant Sponsor/Agency: Simply Organic The Simply Organic 1% Fund supports and promotes the growth of organic and sustainable agriculture through the funding of projects that research, develop, teach or promote organic agriculture. Eligible Recipients: US Non-Profit 501©(3) tax-exempt organizations serving the food insecure Funding Amount: $150,000 For more information, check out the Simply Organic Giving Fund Webpage

Research, Education, and Promotion Agricultural and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) Sponsor/Agency: USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture NIFA awards AFRI research, education, and extension grants to improve rural economics, increase food production, stimulate the bioeconomy, mitigate impacts of climate variability, address water availability issues, ensure food safety and security, enhance human nutrition, and train the next generation of the agricultural workforce. Eligible Recipients: Depends on Grant Funding Amount: Depends on Grant For more information, check out the Agricultural and Food Research Initiative Webpage Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP) Sponsor/Agency: USDA Agricultural Marketing Service The FMPP funds projects that develop, coordinate and expand direct producer-to-consumer markets to help increase access to and availability of locally and regionally produced agricultural products by developing, coordinating, expanding, and providing outreach, training, and technical assistance to domestic farmers markets, roadside stands, community-supported agriculture programs, agritourism activities, online sales or other direct producer-to-consumer (including direct producer-to-retail, direct producer-to-restaurant and direct producer-to-institutional marketing) market opportunities. Eligible Recipients: • Agricultural Businesses and Cooperatives • Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Networks and Associations • Food Councils • Economic Development Corporations • Local/Tribal Governments • Non-Profit and Public Benefit Corporations • Producer Networks or Associations • Regional Farmers’ Market Authorities Funding Amounts: $50,000-$500,000 (Dependent on Type of Project) For more information, check out the Farm Market Promotion Program Webpage

Northeast Agricultural Education Grant Sponsor/Agency: Northeast Agricultural Education Foundation, Inc. (NAEF) NAEF grants support education and leadership training organizations dedicated to serving interests of farmers and rural communities in the Northeast. The Foundation will support organizations whose activities either promote agricultural leadership development, help foster a better understanding of agriculture and/or our food production system or improve the quality of life for farmers. Eligible Recipients: 501©(3) Non-Profit Organizations Funding Amount: $1,000-$10,000 For more information, check out the Northeast Agriculture Education Grant Webpage Northeast SARE Grants Sponsor/Agency: Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education (SARE) Northeast SARE has several grant programs for those researching topics in sustainable agriculture that will serve the interests of farmers, agricultural service providers, extension staff, NRCS personnel and others in the agricultural community. Eligible Recipients: Dependent on Grant Program Funding Amount: Dependent on Grant Program For more information, check out the Northeast SARE Grants Webpage Professional Development Grant Program Sponsor/Agency: Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education The Northeast SARE Professional Development Grant funds projects that develop the knowledge, awareness, skills, and attitudes of agricultural and other service providers about sustainable agriculture practices or teach, advise, or assist farmers. Eligible Recipients: Anyone who works with service providers and farmers Funding Amount: $30,000-$150,000 For more information, check out the Professional Development Grant Program Webpage

Regional Food System Partnerships (RFSP) Sponsor/Agency: USDA Agricultural Marketing Services RFSP program supports partnerships that connect public and private resources to plan and develop local or regional food systems. The program focuses on strengthening the viability and resilience of regional food economies through collaboration and coordination. Eligible Recipients: • Agricultural Businesses or Cooperatives • Producer Networks or Associations • Community Supported Agriculture Networks or Associations • Food Councils • Local/Tribal Governments • Nonprofit Corporations • Public Benefit Corporations • Economic Development Corporations • Regional Farmers Market Authorities Funding Amounts: $100,000-$1,000,000 For more information, check out the Regional Food System Partnerships (RFSP) Webpage Research and Education Grant Program Sponsor/Agency: Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education The Research and Education program funds protections that results in gains in farmer knowledge, awareness, skills, and attitudes that are then applied to make measurable on-farm changes leading to greater sustainability. The focus on farmer behavior change is a key requirement of this grant program. Eligible Recipients: Anyone who works with farmers Funding Amount: $30,000-$250,000 For more information, check out the Research and Education Grant Program Webpage Sheep Production and Marketing Grant Program Sponsor/Agency: National Sheep Industry and Improvement Center The Sheep Production & Marketing Grant Program seeks to develop solutions for practical problems on a national basis and address the needs of the entire sheep industry, while focusing on the measurable benefits for sheep producers, encouraging partnerships among other sheep industry organizations, and reducing the duplication of effort among participating organizations. Eligible Recipients: Entities that promote the betterment of the US Sheep Industries Funding Amount: Subject to the details of the grant For more information, check out the Sheep Production and Marketing Grant Program Webpage

Row Crops Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) & Price Loss Coverage (PLC) Sponsor/Agency: USDA Farm Service Agency These programs are administered by the FSA to help support agricultural businesses through price fluctuations. The program will provide payments when revenue is less than the guarantee, set by historical data and market conditions. It will also provide payments up to the guaranteed price of a commodity. The program helps farmers to insure themselves against market downturns and unexpected events. Eligible Recipients: • Farmers who grow any of the following commodities: wheat, oats, barley, corn, grain sorghum, long grain rice, medium/short grain rice, temperate japonica rice, seed cotton, dry peas, lentils, large and small chickpeas soybeans, peanuts, sunflower seed, canola, flaxseed, mustard seed, rapeseed, safflower, crambe, and sesame seed Funding Amount: Varies based on commodity price For more information, check out the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) & Price Loss Coverage (PLC) Webpage Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP) Sponsor/Agency: USDA Farm Service Agency (ECAP) is a program that makes direct payments to commodity producers. They are one-time economic assistance payments that help producers to mitigate the risks involved with increased input costs and decreased commodity prices. Eligible Recipients: • Be actively engaged in farming. • Have an interest in input expenses for a covered commodity. • Have reported acreage of eligible commodities to FSA for the 2024 crop year planted and prevent plant acres to FSA on an FSA-578, Report of Acreage form. • Have reported acres that were prevented from being planted to FSA for the 2024 crop year on an CCC-576 Notice of Loss form (if applicable). Funding Amount: Up to $250,000 For more information, check out the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP) Webpage

Rural Business & Cooperatives Disaster Assistance Tree Assistance Program Sponsor/Agency: U.S. Department of Agriculture The tree assistance program aids orchardists and nursery tree growers to regrow trees and wines lost by natural disasters. Eligible Recipients: Annual crops produced for commercial purposes lost from natural disasters Funding Amount: 75% of lost crop value For more information, check out the Tree Assistance Program Webpage Farm Bureau Innovations Challenge Sponsor/Agency: American Farm Bureau Federation in partnership with Farm Credit The Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge is a national business competition that showcases U.S. startups developing innovative solutions that address challenges facing America’s farmers, ranchers and rural communities. The American Farm Bureau Federation in partnership with Farm Credit, seeks to identify the top entrepreneurs who are addressing both traditional challenges farmers face on their operation, such as access to labor, optimizing yield and reducing operating costs, to entrepreneurs who are addressing new challenges facing farmers and rural communities. Eligible Recipients: Non-Profit Businesses who are Farm Bureau members Funding Amount: up to $100,000 (dependent on prize) For more information, check out the Farm Bureau Innovation Challenge Webpage Farmer Grant Program Sponsor/Agency: Sustainable Agriculture Research Education Northeast Northeast SARE offers grants to farmers to explore new concepts in sustainable agriculture conducted through experiments, surveys, prototypes, on-farm demonstrations or other research and education techniques. Farmer Grant projects address issues that affect farming with longterm sustainability in mind. Eligible Recipients: Commercial Farm Business Owners and Farm Employees in the Northeast Funding Amount: $5,000-$30,000 For more information, check out the Farmer Grant Program Webpage

Local Food Promotion Program Sponsor/Agency: USDA Agricultural Marketing Service The Local Food Promotion Program (LFPP) funds projects that develop, coordinate and expand local and regional food business enterprises that engage as intermediaries in indirect producer-toconsumer marketing to help increase access to and availability of locally and regionally produced agricultural products. Eligible Recipients: • Agricultural Business and Cooperatives • Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Networks and Associations • Food Councils • Economic Development Corporations • Local/Tribal Governments • Nonprofit and Public Benefit Corporations • Producer Networks or Associations • Regional Farmers’ Market Authorities Funding Available: $25,000-$500,000 (dependent on type of project) For more information, check out the Local Food Promotion Program Webpage Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program (MPPEP) Sponsor/Agency: U.S. Department of Agriculture The Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program helps eligible processors expand their processing capacity. The MPPEP will encourage competition and sustainable growth in the U.S. Eligible Recipients: Entities that engage or plan to engage in meat and poultry processing, including private, non-profit, tribal, cooperative, state or local government, among other entities. Funding Amount: $250,000-$10,000,000 For more information, check out the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program (MPPEP) Webpage Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS) Retrofit Program Sponsor/Agency: National ROPS Rebate Program Rollover protective structures ROPS in tractors are 99% effective in preventing rollover deaths and injuries. Rebate funds are good towards the price of the ROPS kit, shipping charges, tax, professional installation costs and a sun canopy. You can buy and install the ROPS kit (rollbar and seatbelt) as well as any of the previous items. Funding Amount: 70% the cost of purchasing and installing the ROPS (up to $865 maximum rebate) For more information, check out the Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS) Retrofit Program Webpage

Rural Business Development Grants Sponsor/Agency: USDA Rural Development Rural Business Development Grants (RBDG) are competitive grants made to rural public entities designed to support targeted technical assistance, training and other activities leading to the development or expansion of small and emerging private businesses in rural areas that have fewer than 50 employees and less than $1 million in gross revenues. Program activities are separated into enterprise or opportunity type grant activities. Eligible Recipients: • Towns • Communities • State Agencies • Authorities • Non-Profit Corporations • Institutions of Higher Educations • Federally Recognized Tribes • Rural Cooperatives (if organized as a private nonprofit corporation) Funding Amount: Rural Business Development Grants (RBDGs) have no maximum award amount or cost-sharing requirement, prioritize smaller funding requests, and are offered as either Opportunity grants (limited to 10% of annual RBDG funding) or Enterprise grants that support small and emerging rural businesses. For more information, check out the Rural Business Development Grants Webpage Rural Cooperative Development Grant Program Sponsor/Agency: USDA Rural Development The Rural Cooperative Development Grant program improves the economic condition of rural areas by helping individuals and businesses start, expand or improve rural cooperatives and other mutually owned businesses through Cooperative Development Centers. Grants are awarded through a national competition. Eligible Recipients: Nonprofit Corporations and Institutions of Higher Education Funding Amount: up to $200,000 For more information, check out the Rural Cooperative Development Grant Program Webpage

Value-Added Producer Grants Sponsor/Agency: USDA Rural Development The Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG) program provides competitively awarded grants to develop value-added, producer-owned businesses. These grants may be used to fund business and marketing plans and feasibility studies or to acquire working capital to operate a value-added business venture or alliance. Farm Credit East has worked with many applicants applying for these incentives. Eligible Recipients: • Independent Producers • Agricultural Producer Groups • Farmer-or-Rancher Cooperatives • Majority-Controlled Producer-Based Business Ventures Funding Amount: Planning Grants up to $50,000. Working Capital Grants up to $200,000. Total available funding: approximately $25 million. 1:1 matching requirement. For more information, check out the Value-Added Producer Grant Webpage

Additional Resources Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Loans Sponsor/Agency: USDA Farm Service Agency America's next generation of farmers and ranchers are supported through FSA's "Beginning Farmer" direct and guaranteed loan programs. Loans include farm ownership loans, operating loans and microloans. Farm Ownership loans can provide access to land and capital. Operating loans can assist beginning farmers in becoming prosperous and competitive by helping to pay normal operating or family living expenses; open doors to new markets and marketing opportunities; assist with diversifying operations; and so much more. Through the microloan programs, beginning farmers and ranchers have an important source of financial assistance during the startup years. Eligible Recipients: Beginning Farmers as defined by the USDA Funding Amount: up to $600,000 (dependent on type of loan) For more information, check out the Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Loans Webpage Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program (BFRDP) Sponsor/Agency: USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture BFRDP is targeted to land grant universities and other local, state and regional partnerships for training beginning farmers and ranchers. It supports financial and entrepreneurial training, mentoring, and apprenticeship programs; “land link” programs that connect retiring farmers and landowners with new farmers; vocational training and agricultural rehabilitation programs for veterans; and education, outreach and curriculum development activities to assist beginning farmers and ranchers. Eligible Recipients: A collaborative state, tribal, local or regionally based network or partnership of qualified public and/or private entities; universities and other organizations. Funding Amount: $49,999-$750,000 For more information, check out the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program Webpage Beginning Farmer Finances and Farm Businesses Sponsor/Agency: Center for Rural Affairs Considerations and resources for new farmers when considering their financial picture overview from the Center for Rural Affairs. For more information, check out the Center for Rural Affairs Farm Finances Webpage

Cornell Small Farms Courses and Resources Sponsor/Agency: Cornell Small Farms A collection of in-depth resources on farming to help farmers, educators and others learn more deeply about various aspects of the business of farming. For more information, check out the Cornell Small Farms Program Webpage Farm Aid Farmer Resource Guides Sponsor/Agency: Farm Aid A collection of resources for topics ranging from farm stress, disaster support, legal assistance, and more. For more information, check out the Farm Aid Farmer Resource Guides Webpage and the Farm Aid Ag Funding Library Webpage US Forest Service - Forest Stewardship Sponsor/Agency: USDA Forest Service The Forest Stewardship Program (FSP) provides assistance to owners of forest land where good stewardship, including agroforestry practices, will enhance and sustain multiple forest resources and contribute to healthy and resilient landscapes. Eligible Recipients: Any private individual or entity that owns land with nonindustrial private forest land For more information, check out the US Forest Service Webpage USDA Small Farm Funding Guide Sponsor/Agency: USDA A guide from the USDA containing information for help when starting a farming operation. Includes resources about farm business planning, funding and program assistance. For more information, check out the USDA Small Farms Funding Guide Webpage USDA Rural Development Programs and Services Sponsor/Agency: USDA Rural Development More information about the over 50 financial assistance programs for a variety of rural applications. For more information, check out the USDA Rural Development Programs and Services Webpage

State Grants and Incentives This section provides grants, loan guarantees and incentives by state. Like the regional grants section, this is not a comprehensive list. Most of the grants listed under each state are available throughout that state; however, some may have location restrictions within the state. Please visit the link below each description for due dates, requirements and other information. In some cases, the grant application deadline has passed for this year, but it is still included in this listing if Farm Credit East has reason to believe the program will continue.

Connecticut Visit the Connecticut Department of Agriculture Website for more information about resources and programs from the state of Connecticut. Connecticut Grown for Connecticut Kids Grant Sponsor/Agency: CT Department of Agriculture The grant’s purpose is to support and foster the relationship between farms and schools. It will help to increase the availability of local foods in child nutrition programs, allow educators to use hands-on educational techniques to teach students about nutrition and farm to school connections, sustain relationships with local farmers and producers, enrich the educational experience of students, improve the health of children in the state and enhance the state's economy. Eligible Recipients: Any organization or entity, including CT farmers, administering or assisting in the development of a farm to school program. Funding Amount: Up to $75,000 For more information, check out the Connecticut Grown for Connecticut Kids Grant Webpage

Connecticut Resilient Food System Infrastructure Grant Program (RFSI) Sponsor/Agency: CT Department of Agriculture Funds will support expanded capacity for the aggregation, processing, manufacturing, storing, transporting, wholesaling, and distribution of locally and regionally produced food products, including specialty crops, dairy, grains for human consumption, aquaculture, and other food products, excluding meat and poultry. Eligible Recipients: • All applicants must be from Connecticut and be operating middle of the supply chain activities (processing, packing, adding value, shipping) • Agricultural producers or processors • Nonprofit organizations • For- profit entities • Local government entities • Tribal governments • Institutions Funding Amount: • Infrastructure Grant Program- $100,000-$250,000 • Equipment Only Grant Program- $25,000- $100,000 For more information, check out the Connecticut Resilient Food System Infrastructure Grant Program (RFSI) Webpage Dairy Funding Opportunities Sponsor/Agency: CT Department of Agriculture The Connecticut Milk Promotion Board has funding for programming intended to support the CTMB’s mission to develop, coordinate, and implement promotional, research, and other programs designed to promote Connecticut dairy farms and the consumption of milk and dairy products. Funding Amount: Dependent on the Funding Opportunity For more information, check out the Dairy Funding Opportunities Webpage Energize Connecticut Sponsor/Agency: Energize Connecticut Energize Connecticut provides Connecticut consumers, businesses and communities resources and information on energy conservation and clean energy resources. It is an initiative of the Connecticut Energy Efficiency Fund, the Connecticut Green Bank, the state, and local electric and gas utilities. The initiative has funding support from a charge on customer energy bills. Eligible Recipients: Dependent Funding Amount: Dependent on program For more information, check out the Energize Connecticut Webpage

Export Assistance Programs Sponsor/Agency: CT Department of Agriculture Three tracks are available. Exporter Education will help you decide if your company is ready to export. Market Entry is available if your business is ready to begin exporting, helping identify potentially successful markets. Market Promotion is available for those who have a target market and are ready to start promotion. Market Promotion Program Eligible Recipients: Small US companies that produce food and Ag related products Funding Amount: $2,500-$5,000 Please note: the Exporter Education Program and Market Entry Program do not have eligibility requirements or specified funding amounts For more information, check out the Export Assistance Programs Webpage Farm Transition Grant Sponsor/Agency: CT Department of Agriculture Competitive matching grant program for Connecticut farmers and agricultural cooperatives to support the diversification of existing farm operations, transitioning to value-added agricultural production and sales, and other venues in which a majority of products sold are grown in the state. Eligible Recipients: • Agricultural Producers • Agricultural Cooperatives • Previous FTG recipients (grant categories may have their own specified requirements) Funding Amount: up to $49,999 (Dependent on Grant Category) For more information, check out the Farm Transition Grant Webpage

Farm Viability Grant (Now Agricultural Enhancement Grant) Sponsor/Agency: CT Department of Agriculture The Farm Viability Grant (FVG) is a competitive matching grant program open to municipalities, regional planning organizations, associations of municipalities, and 501-C-(3) agricultural non-profits. Funds can be used to develop local land use or agricultural regulations, farmland protection strategies, provide educational workshops for farmers, fund advertising for local or regional agriculture and establish local farmers’ markets, among others. The Farm Viability Grant program has expanded and now offers a Micro Grant program as well. Eligible Recipients: • Municipalities with a current plan of conservation and development • Regional Councils of Government organized under the provisions of sections 4-124i to 4124p • Groups of Municipalities that have established a regional inter-local agreement pursuant to sections 7-339a to 7-339l • Agricultural Non-Profits Funding Amount: up to $5,000 or $49,999 (Dependent on Grant Program) For more information, check out the Farm Viability Grant (Now Agricultural Enhancement Grant) Webpage Farmland Restoration, Climate Resiliency, and Preparedness Grant (RRP) Sponsor/Agency: CT Department of Agriculture The Farmland Restoration, Climate Resiliency & Preparedness (RRP) Grant is a matching grant program designed to support farmers, nonprofits, and municipalities in Connecticut in strengthening the long-term resilience of agricultural operations. It focuses on reducing vulnerability to extreme weather by promoting climate-smart improvements across entire farming systems. Projects funded through the program must be guided by a comprehensive whole-farm Farmland Restoration and Climate Resiliency Plan (FRCR Plan). Funding can be used for capital investments such as equipment, as well as the implementation of climate-smart farming practices that deliver sustained, multi-year benefits to the land and overall operation. Eligible Recipients: • Group A: For BIPOC, new/beginning (1-3 years), or veteran farmers • Group B: Open to all eligible farmers Funding Amount: • Group A: up to $50,000 • Group B: up to $100,000 For more information, check out the Farmland Restoration, Climate Resiliency, and Preparedness Grant (RRP) Webpage

Milk Producer (Dairy Sustainability) Grant Sponsor/Agency: CT Department of Agriculture Public Act No. 09-229 provides grants to Connecticut producers of cow’s milk for pasteurization. Milk Producer Grants are quarterly grant payments for Connecticut dairy producers. The payments are determined by a formula based on regional prices and cost of production. Eligible Recipients: CT Producers of cow’s milk for pasteurization Funding Amount: Grant payments are calculated based on the gap between a state-determined sustainable milk production cost and the federal milk price, multiplied by the producer's monthly milk production, with payments adjusted if total requests exceed available funding. For more information, check out the Milk Producer (Dairy Sustainability) Grant Webpage Property Tax Exemption for Farm Buildings and Farm Machinery Sponsor/Agency: CT Department of Agriculture Up to $100,000 in assessed value for farm equipment and machinery. An additional $100,000 for machinery if the municipality votes to approve such an exemption. An exemption for each farm building used exclusively in farming to an assessed value of up to $100,000, also if the municipality votes to approve. In order to receive any of the above exemptions, you must derive at least $15,000 in gross sales or demonstrate $15,000 in expenses on the farm. You also must declare to Town by November 1 (within 30 days after the assessment date). Funding Amount: up to $100,000 in tax exemptions For more information, check out the Property Tax Exemption for Farm Buildings and Farm Machinery Webpage Sea Grant Research Funding Sponsor/Agency: The University of Connecticut and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Sea Grant Program The Connecticut Sea Grant program supports projects, publications, conferences, or similar initiatives to support healthy coastal and marine ecosystems along the Connecticut coast. Eligible Recipients: Researchers and educators at all non-profit academic institutions, research laboratories, and outreach/educational facilities in Connecticut Funding Amount: Dependent on grant program For more information, check out the Sea Grant Research Funding Webpage

Specialty Crop Block Grant Program Sponsor/Agency: CT Department of Agriculture The Connecticut Department of Agriculture has grant funds to enhance the competitiveness of Connecticut specialty crops. Projects funded through this grant program must benefit more than one specialty crop business, individuals, or organization. Eligible Recipients: Any entity may apply, but projects must benefit Connecticut’s specialty crop industries Funding Amount: up to $100,000 For more information, check out the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program Webpage Traditional Farmland Preservation Program Sponsor/Agency: CT Department of Agriculture Development Rights are sold to the state of Connecticut and the landowner is presented with compensation for the value of those rights. Typically, a good fit for preserving larger (>30 acres) farms that have a significant quantity of good cropland and prime and important soils as defined by the USDA. Eligible Recipients: Best suited for preserving larger farms (over 30 acres) with substantial cropland and high-quality agricultural soils. Funding Amount: Subject to the details of the grant For more information, check out the Traditional Farmland Preservation Program

Maine Visit the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Website for more information about resources and programs from the state of Maine. Agricultural Marketing Loan Fund (AMLF) Sponsor/Agency: Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry AMLF program provides financing to help Maine farms and agricultural businesses enhance and improve their products. AMLF funded projects can demonstrate new and innovative equipment and facilities to improve and enhance the manufacturing, marketability and production of Maine products. Farmers, food processors and aquaculture operators can access the fund to enhance production processes, innovate marketing techniques and/or make product improvements. Eligible Recipients: Agricultural or Aquaculture Enterprises located in the state of Maine Funding Amount: up to $250,000 For more information, check out the Agricultural Marketing Loan Fund (AMLF) Webpage Dairy Improvement Fund (DIF) Sponsor/Agency: Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry The Dairy Improvement Fund provides financing to help Maine agricultural businesses undertake projects to enhance the viability of the farm, and improve the manufacturing, marketability, and production of their products. DIF provides eligible borrowers with direct loans of up to $250,000 at a 1% fixed interest rate for capital improvements. Eligible Recipients: Maine Dairy Enterprises, Dairy Farms, or Businesses making milk products who keep cows, sheep, and/or goats that contribute milk to their products that produce milk products that are sold commercially Funding Amount: up to $250,000 For more information, check out the Dairy Improvement Fund (DIF) Webpage Farm Business Planning Programs Sponsor/Agency: Maine Farmland Trust Maine Farmland Trust offers two business programs that help farmers analyze their business with support from local technical service providers. The first program is the Business of Farming program that works with experienced farmers who want to analyze their current business model and use the information for decision making. The second program is the Farming for the Long-Haul program which is a two-year business planning program for experienced farmers that combines technical assistance, peer learning, and an opportunity to apply for a grant to implement their business plan. Eligible Recipients: Dependent on Program Funding Amount: Dependent on Program For more information, check out the Farm Business Planning Programs Webpage 38

Farmers Drought Relief Fund Sponsor/Agency: Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry Created by the State to support farmers by providing farmers with grants during times of drought. Eligible Recipients: • Farm operation located in Maine. • In at least one of the last three years, you produced agricultural products with a gross annual value of at least $10,000, OR you produced agricultural products with a gross annual value of at least $2,000 and can demonstrate that the farm provides unique benefits to the local food economy as determined by the Commissioner, OR that you have an ancestral history of disinvestment or land dispossession in the State of Maine. • The application is intended to address agricultural water management of cropland. Funding Amount: Dependent on program For more information, check out the Farmers Drought Relief Fund Webpage Journeyperson Program Sponsor/Agency: Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association seeks applicants who are serious about operating farm businesses in Maine that will make significant contributions to the agricultural community and economy. While open to farms at any stage of development, the program is best utilized by those who have an established farm businesses with secure land tenure and will use this program as a tangible step toward achieving their farm goals. Eligible Recipients: Farms with a minimum of two years of farming experience and one calendar year of farm experience in Maine Funding Amount: Participants receive two years of support, including free access to MOFGA resources and training, discounts on farming supplies, shared equipment access, land access assistance, a $200 educational stipend in year one, a paid mentor in year two, and ongoing networking through the Journeyperson farmer community. For more information, check out the Journeyperson Program Webpage Land for Maine’s Future (LMF) Sponsor/Agency: Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry Multi-purpose land conservation funding is available to coordinate and finance public acquisition of land. This land, which currently includes over 9,700 acres of farmland, goes into the public trust to ensure its permanent use indefinitely. Eligible Recipients: Dependent on Type of Proposal Funding Amount: Dependent on Type of Proposal For more information, check out the Land for Maine's Future (LMF) Webpage

Maine Agriculture, Food System and Forest Products Infrastructure Investment Fund (AFFPIF) Sponsor/Agency: Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry The Fund was established by the Maine legislature to expand infrastructure investments and strengthen the State's agricultural, food and forest products economy, with a priority of making resulting efforts more inclusive of and increasing investments in historically marginalized, underrepresented and underserved communities. Eligible Recipients and Funding Amount: This is a new fund with details forthcoming. Refer to the Fund’s webpage for more information. The AFFPIF Advisory Board meets the last Wednesday of each month. For more information, check out the Maine Agriculture, Food System and Forest Products Infrastructure Investment Fund (AFFPIF) Webpage Maine Farms for the Future Program Sponsor/Agency: Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry A two-phase competitive program that provides selected farms with business planning assistance and investment support. The first phase of the program is the Business Plan Development Program. A business is awarded $6,000 to be used to work with a business advisor and develop a plan. After you receive this first grant you are eligible to apply for phase 2 of the program. Phase 2 is the Investment Support Program to Implement a Business Plan and can qualify you for a loan of up to 250,000 at a 2% rate and a cash grant of $25,000. Eligible Recipients: Farmers in Maine that have been producing agricultural products for at least 2 years. Funding Amount: Dependent on phase of the program For more information, check out the Maine Farms for the Future Program Webpage No-Cost Soil Health Testing Sponsor/Agency: Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry The Maine Healthy Soils Program is partnering with Augusta-based Woods End Laboratories to provide no-cost soil health testing. Soil health testing differs from traditional soil nutrient testing, as it also includes measurements of some physical and biological characteristics of your soil that impact the productivity of your soil. This test establishes a soil health baseline that can help you make decisions about nutrient inputs, cover cropping, and field operations in the future. Eligible Recipients: Farm operations that support the community by providing access to agricultural products, nonprofits, farms that produce $2,000+ of agriculture products Funding Amount: Subject to the details of the grant For more information, check out the No-Cost Soil Health Testing Webpage

Potato Marketing Improvement Fund Sponsor/Agency: Finance Authority of Maine The Potato Marketing Improvement Fund (PMIF) provides financing to potato growers and packers to construct modern storages, modernize existing storages, and purchase packing lines as part of the industry’s plan to improve the quality and marketing of Maine potatoes. The PMIF provides long-term, fixed-rate loans at low interest rates for the construction or improvements to storage and packing facilities. Funds cannot be used for working capital, refinancing, or nonproject related equipment. PMIF funds may only be used for permanent financing after a project is completed. Eligible Recipients: Any person or business engaged in growing, processing, or marketing potatoes in Maine Funding Amount: Dependent on the Loan Program For more information, check out the Potato Marketing Improvement Fund Rural Rehabilitation Trust Fund Sponsor/Agency: Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, & Forestry The Division manages this dedicated revenue fund for purposes of providing policy and loanmaking decisions of this fund. Investments of fund dollars go to providing low interest loans to farmers for purchasing land, or feeder cattle. The fund also provides capital improvement loans to agricultural fairs. Eligible Recipients: Dependent on Loan Program Funding Amount: Dependent on Loan Program For more information, check out the Rural Rehabilitation Trust Fund Webpage Soil Health Implementation Grant Sponsor/Agency: Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry The Maine Healthy Soils Program is making grants available to farmers to address on-farm barriers to improving or maintaining soil health. Eligible expenses are equipment, labor, materials, etc. Eligible Recipients: • Maine Farmers • One of the past 3 years has grossed > $2000 • You have access to > 1 acre of farmable land • You have enrolled in the Maine Healthy Soils Program • You have a current soil health management plan that includes a soil health test three (3) or fewer years old, OR you commit to working with MHSP staff to complete soil health testing and management planning in your application • You have NOT received a Soil Health Implementation Grant in any of the last three (3) funding cycles. Funding Amount: Up to $65,000 For more information, check out the Soil Health Implementation Grant Webpage 41

Woods WISE Incentives to Stewardship Enhancement Sponsor/Agency: Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry Taking care of woodlands is extremely important to Maine’s economy and well-being. A key element of woodland stewardship is working with a professional forester to develop a management plan. The Woods WISE Incentives program currently offers cost-share assistance for forest management planning known as a Woodland Resource Action Plan (WRAP). A WRAP will provide a good description of the current and potential values of your woodland, and a blueprint of activities to reach your objectives to maintain and improve your woods. Eligible Recipients: Maine landowners who own 10-1,000 forested acres statewide. Ownerships of up to 5,000 forested acres may also be eligible under certain circumstances. Landowners may be individuals, families, organizations such as land trusts, or businesses. Funding Amount: Landowners may receive reimbursement for eligible planning, forestry, and implementation expenses, with payments based on established maximum reimbursement rates. For more information, check out the Woods Wise Incentives to Stewardship Enhancement Webpage

Massachusetts Visit the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources Website for more information about resources and programs from the state of Massachusetts. Agricultural Composting Improvement Program (ACIP) Sponsor/Agency: Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources This grant program funds projects and equipment to facilitate composting best management practices, use of compost for agricultural purposes, and enhance overall management of agricultural composting operations. Eligible Recipients: • Registered Agriculture Composters • Agricultural Composting Farms exempt from registration • Agriculture Composters in the process applying for registration prior to the release of this grant Funding Amount: Maximum funding per applicant is 80% of total project or equipment costs up to a maximum of $50,000. For more information, check out the Agricultural Composting Improvement Program (ACIP) Webpage Agricultural Climate Resiliency and Efficiencies (ACRE) Program Sponsor/Agency: EEA Office of Grants and Technical Assistance This grant program is for the implementation of projects that help the agricultural sector adapt to climate change, mitigate climate change, improve economic resiliency, and advance general goals identified in the Massachusetts Local Action Food Plan. Eligible Recipients: Agricultural Operations engaged in production agriculture for commercial purposes Funding Amount: Reimburses approved project costs after the project is completed and you submit receipts, invoices, or other proof of payment; expenses incurred before signing a contract with MDAR are not eligible For more information, check out the Agricultural Climate Resiliency & Efficiencies (ACRE) Program Webpage

Agricultural Energy Grant Program (ENER) Sponsor/Agency: EEA Office of Grants and Technical Assistance This grant program is for the implementation of agricultural projects that improve energy efficiency and facilitate adoption of alternative clean energy technologies. Eligible Recipients: Agricultural Operations that are principally and substantially engaged in the business of production agriculture or farming for commercial purposes Funding Amount: Reimburses approved project costs after the project is completed and you submit receipts, invoices, or other proof of payment; expenses incurred before signing a contract with MDAR are not eligible For more information, check out the Agricultural Energy Grant Program (ENER) Webpage Agricultural Environmental Enhancement Program (AEEP) Sponsor/Agency: EEA Office of Grants and Technical Assistance This grant program is for the implementation of agricultural conservation practices that reduce or prevent negative impacts to the Commonwealth's natural resources that may result from agricultural practices, while maintaining sustainability and productivity of the agricultural operation. Eligible Recipients: Agricultural Operations engaged in production agriculture for commercial producers Funding Amount: Reimburses approved project costs after the project is completed, and you submit receipts, invoices, or other proof of payment; expenses incurred before signing a contract with MDAR are not eligible For more information, check out the Agricultural Environmental Enhancement Program (AEEP) Webpage Agricultural Food Safety Improvement Program (AFSIP) Sponsor/Agency: Massachusetts Department of Agricultural and Resources This grant program is for the implementation of practices that prevent or reduce food safety risks for produce or aquaculture operations, meet regulatory requirements, and improve market access. Eligible Recipients: Produce or Aquaculture Operations that are principally and substantially engaged in agricultural production for commercial purposes Funding Amount: Reimburses approved project costs after the project is completed and you submit receipts, invoices, or other proof of payment; expenses incurred before signing a contract with MDAR are not eligible For more information, check out the Agricultural Food Safety Improvement Program (AFSIP) Webpage

Agricultural Preservation Restriction Program (APR) Sponsor/Agency: Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources Program designed to protect agricultural land, particularly farmland soils, from being developed or used for non-agriculture purposes. On a voluntary basis, the program will buy the development rights on agricultural land in exchange for a permanent deed restriction, securing its future use as agricultural land. Eligible Recipients: Farms at least 5 acres in size that have been actively devoted to agriculture for the two preceding tax years. Farms must produce at least $500 in gross sales per year for the first five acres plus $5 for each additional acre or $0.50 per each additional acre of woodland and/or wetland. Funding Amount: Dependent on grant For more information, check out the Agricultural Preservation Restriction Program (APR) Webpage APR Improvement Program (AIP) Sponsor/Agency: Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources This grant program provides business and technical assistance to farms with land that has already been protected through MDAR's Agricultural Preservation Restriction (APR) Program. Grant funds may be available on a reimbursement basis with a 25% match to participants for capital infrastructure improvements on the farm identified through the planning process. Eligible Recipients: APR privately family-owned or operated farm that has been in active commercial agricultural use for at least three years and meets a minimum gross income as stated in the current RFR. Funding Amount: up to $80,000, $125,000 or $150,000 may be available on a cost reimbursement basis, with a 10% match For more information, check out the APR Improvement Program (AIP) Webpage

Climate Smart Agriculture Program Sponsor/Agency: Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources The Climate Smart Agriculture Program combines MDAR’s separate water, energy and climate grants into one application. The three grant programs combined in this application are the Agricultural Climate Resiliency & Efficiencies (ACRE) Grant, the Agricultural Environmental Enhancement Program Grant (AEEP) and the Traditional Ag-Energy Program Grant (ENER). By bringing the three grants under one program, MDAR is seeking to simplify the application process by allowing a single application process for these grants. Eligible Recipients: Agricultural Operation that is principally and substantially engaged in the business of production agriculture Funding Amount: Reimburses approved project costs after the project is completed and you submit receipts, invoices, or other proof of payment; expenses incurred before signing a contract with MDAR are not eligible For more information, check out the Climate Smart Agriculture Program Webpage Cranberry Bog Renovation Grant Program Sponsor/Agency: Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources Funding to implement cranberry bog renovations that promote more efficient bogs both in design and production while enhancing the business and environmental sustainability of the cranberry operation. Eligible Recipients: Agricultural Operation that are principally and substantially engaged in business of cranberry production for commercial purposes with bogs greater than one acre in size Funding Amount: $25,000 per acre, up to $125,000 For more information, check out the Cranberry Bog Renovation Grant Program Webpage Cranberry Bog Renovation Tax Credit Program Sponsor/Agency: Massachusetts Division of Conservation Services The Cranberry Bog Renovation Tax Credit helps provide necessary funds to renovate cranberry bogs to install a new tile drainage system, pumps and more. This legislature will offset 25% of the cost of renovating bogs in Massachusetts up to a $100,000 credit Eligible Recipients: Massachusetts cranberry bogs with a renovation project plan approved by the state Funding Amount: Up to a $100,000 credit For more information, check out the Cranberry Bog Renovation Tax Credit Program Webpage

Dairy Farmer Tax Credit Program Sponsor/Agency: Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources The Dairy Farmer Tax Credit Program enables a dairy farmer who holds a Certificate of Registration to receive a refundable income tax credit based on the amount of milk produced and sold. The credit shall be based on the United States Federal Milk Marketing Order for the applicable market such that if the United States Federal Milk Marketing Order price drops below a trigger price anytime during the taxable year, such taxpayer may receive the tax credit. Eligible Recipients: Dairy Farms registered to Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources Funding Amount: The dairy farmer credit is a refundable tax credit. The total amount of credits granted through the program cannot exceed $8,000,000 in any year. For more information, check out the Dairy Farmer Tax Credit Program Webpage Dairy Promotion Board Grants Sponsor/Agency: Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources The Board works with the MDAR to seek proposals for projects that advance Massachusetts dairy products. This includes the image, sales and demand for dairy. Funding Amount: Subject to the details of the grant For more information, check out the Dairy Promotion Board Grants Webpage Farm Energy Discount Program Sponsor/Agency: Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources The Farm Energy Discount Program provides discounts on electricity and natural gas bills of 10% to eligible entities engaged in production agriculture. Persons or corporations determined to be engaged in the business of production agriculture or farming for an ultimate commercial purpose will, upon written application, be eligible for a 10% discount on rates. Eligible Recipients: People or Corporations determined to be principally and substantially engaged in the business of production agriculture or farming for an ultimate commercial purpose Funding Amount: 10% discount on electricity and natural gas bills For more information, check out the Farm Energy Discount Program Webpage

Farm Viability Enhancement Program (FVEP) Sponsor/Agency: Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources FVEP provides business planning and technical assistance to help established farms identify strategies to increase farm viability. Participants selected to participate in the program may be offered grant funds to implement strategies identified in the planning process in return for signing an agricultural covenant on the farm property for a 5, 10 or 15-year term. Eligible Recipients: Privately family-owned farms of at least 5 acres of land that is currently in active agricultural use for at least three years and meets a minimum gross income as stated in the current RFR. Funding Amount: up to $90,000, $130,000 or $175,000 For more information, check out the Farm Viability Enhancement Program Webpage Food Security Infrastructure Grant (FSIG) Program Sponsor/Agency: Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources The Food Security Infrastructure Grant ensures farmers and other entities be better engaged with a strong, resilient food system to help mitigate food supply and ensure that individuals and families throughout the Commonwealth have equitable access to food. Eligible Recipients: Applicants may be individuals, for-profit, or non-profit entities. Applicants must be an agricultural operation that is principally and substantially engaged in the business of production. Applicants also must play a role in addressing food access and/or improving and strengthening the resiliency of the Commonwealth’s local food system. Funding Amount: up to $500,000 For more information, check out the Food Security Infrastructure Grant (FSIG) Program Webpage Food Ventures Grant Program Sponsor/Agency: Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources The overall goal of the Massachusetts Food Ventures Program (MFVP) is to increase access to healthy, affordable food options and improve economic opportunities for low to moderate income communities. The MFVP provides funding through grants to support food ventures, sited primarily in or near communities of low or moderate income, including Gateway Cities and rural communities. Eligible Recipients: • Massachusetts Municipalities • Massachusetts Non-Profit or For-Profit Organizations • Individual Residents of Massachusetts Funding Amount: Subject to the details of the grant For more information, check out the Food Ventures Grant Program Webpage

Local Farmer Awards – Harold Grinspoon Foundation Sponsor/Agency: Harold Grinspoon Foundation Recognizing that farming is essential to communities, the foundation provides funds to selected local farms (Western Massachusetts) for necessary farm improvements. The goal of the award is to strengthen local farmers’ ability to compete in the marketplace so that the region benefits from the environmental, health and economic advantages of local farming. Eligible Recipients: Farms with annual gross sales of at least $10,000 that grow, harvest, and market their own agricultural products as more than 50% of their economic activity. Farms must be in Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin, or Berkshire County of Massachusetts or a member of the Berkshire Grown or CISA. Funding Amount: Dependent on the award For more information, check out the Local Farmer Awards – Harold Grinspoon Foundation Webpage Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (Mass CEC) Funding Sponsor/Agency: Massachusetts Clean Energy Program Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (Mass CEC) administers the Massachusetts Renewable Energy Trust Fund which may provide grants, contracts, loans, equity investments, energy production credits, bill credits and rebates to customers. Eligibility Requirements: Dependent on Funding Program Funding Amount: Dependent on Funding Program For more information, check out the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (Mass CEC) Funding Webpage

Massachusetts Food Trust Program Sponsor/Agency: Mass Food Trust Program This grant program funds projects that increase access to healthy, affordable food options, sourcing Massachusetts grown, caught, or harvested healthy food and to improve economic opportunities for nutritionally underserved communities in urban, rural and suburban localities. Eligible Recipients: • Grocery and Corner Stores • Food Co-Ops that are open to the public without requiring membership • Farmers Markets and Mobile Markets • Food Hubs, Community Kitchens, Indoor and Outdoor Greenhouses and other infrastructure for gathering, preparing, and distributing health food for retail in areas that are low-and-moderate income (LMI) and underserved Funding Amount: Subject to the details of the grant. Funds are for one-time investments in hard assets and/or in business assistance services with a consultant, such as business planning, financial management, food-safety compliance, marketing and sales, and operations management. For more information, check out the Massachusetts Food Trust Program Webpage Massachusetts Society for Promoting Agriculture Grant (MSPA) Sponsor/Agency: The Massachusetts Society for Promoting Agriculture Private grant funding that is available to benefit agriculture in a way that is economically and environmentally sound, broaden knowledge of and support for Massachusetts farmers, stimulate research in new areas, or to improve chances of receiving a grant from elsewhere, particularly when government or corporate funding isn’t available. Funding Amount: $500-$25,000 For more information, check out the Massachusetts Society for Promoting Agriculture Grant (MSPA) Webpage Matching Enterprise Grants for Agriculture Program (MEGA) Sponsor/Agency: Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources This grant program assists beginner farmers who are between 1 and 6 years in business by providing technical assistance and business planning. Grant funds are to assist farmers whose goal is to raise agricultural products and develop their farms into commercially viable operations. Eligible Recipients: Beginning Farmers who are between 1-10 years in business Funding Amount: up to $15,000, $20,000, $30,000 For more information, check out the Matching Enterprise Grants for Agriculture (MEGA) Webpage

National Grid Incentives Sponsor/Agency: National Grid For businesses whose energy provider is National Grid, the company has a number of incentives for renewable energy projects or energy efficiency programs. Eligible Recipients: Dependent on Service/Rebate Funding Amount: Dependent on Service/Rebate For more information, check out the National Grid Incentives Webpage Organic Cost Share Program Sponsor/Agency: Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources MDAR works with the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service to reimburse certified organic farmers and food processors up to 75% ($750 dollars maximum) of the total certification cost. Farms and food companies must be inspected and certified to receive funds. Parties receiving renewal of certification may be eligible. Eligible Recipients: Organic operations certified for crops, wild crops, livestock, and handlers Funding Amount: up to 75% ($750 maximum) of the total certification cost For more information, check out the Organic Cost Share Program Webpage Stewardship Assistance and Restoration on APRs (SARA) Sponsor/Agency: Massachusetts Department of Agriculture Resources This grant program funds projects to restore farmland for agricultural use on agricultural preservation restriction (APR) farms. Funds may be used for materials and contracted labor or equipment rental costs to clear or reclaim inactive fields that are out of production at no fault of the current owner. Eligible Recipients: Individuals who are not the original owners of land that was placed under the APR (exceptions may apply) Funding Amount: up to $50,000 For more information, check out the Stewardship Assistance and Restoration on APRs (SARA) Webpage Specialty Crop Block Grant Program Sponsor/Agency: Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources has an availability of grant funds to enhance the competitiveness of Massachusetts specialty crops. Projects funded through this grant program must benefit more than one specialty crop business, individuals, or organization. Eligible Recipients: Any entity may apply, but projects must benefit Connecticut’s specialty crop industries Funding Amount: Subject to details of the grant For more information, check out the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program Webpage

Urban Agriculture Program Sponsor/Agency: Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources This grant program advances the agricultural goals and objectives of Massachusetts. The program funds infrastructure needs, innovative food production, zoning ordinances, technical assistance, land acquisition, and youth leadership development. Eligible Recipients: • Municipalities • Nonprofit Organizations 501©(3) • Public or Non-Profit Educational or Public Health Institutions • Established Urban Farmers with more than three years of commercial urban farming experience Funding Amount: Subject to details of the grant For more information, check out the Urban Agriculture Program Webpage

New Hampshire Visit the New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, Markets, and Food Website for more information about resources and programs from the state of New Hampshire. Agricultural Mini-Grant Program Sponsor/Agency: New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food The Agricultural Promotion Mini-Grant Program offers matching grants of up to $1,000 to organizations that wish to conduct a project focused on promoting New Hampshire agriculture. Eligible Recipients: Organization or Commodity Groups engaged in production, marketing, or promotion of New Hampshire agricultural products Funding Amount: up to $1,000 For more information, check out the GAP Certification Webpage Integrated Pest Management Program Sponsor/Agency: New Hampshire Department of Agriculture Markets & Food Through outreach and funding this grant supports farmers by giving them the resources needed to manage pests in a sustainable way. The IPM program can support and fund agriculture, horticulture, arboriculture, landscape and building maintenance. Eligible Recipients: Open to all New Hampshire residents. Funding Amount: Subject to details of the grant For more information, check out the Integrated Pest Management Program Webpage New Hampshire Department of Energy Programs Sponsor/Agency: New Hampshire Department of Energy New Hampshire’s Department of Energy administers energy-related programs to support the states’ goal of providing affordable, efficient, innovative, sustainable, and secure energy options to the state and its citizens. Eligible Recipients: Dependent on Program Funding Amount: Dependent on Program For more information, check out the New Hampshire Department of Energy Programs Webpage Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS) Retrofit Program Sponsor/Agency: National ROPS Rebate Program The ROPS Rebate Program will rebate 70% of the cost of purchasing and installing the ROPS (Rollover Protective Structure) on farm equipment. Funding Amount: 70% the cost of purchasing and installing the ROPS ($500 out of pocket cap) For more information, check out the Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS) Retrofit Program Webpage

Specialty Crop Block Grant Program Sponsor/Agency: New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food The NHDAMF offers eligible New Hampshire organizations the opportunity to apply for a portion of these funds under the New Hampshire Specialty Crops Grant Program to conduct projects that benefit New Hampshire Specialty Crops. Eligible Recipients: • Commodity Groups • Agriculture Organizations • Colleges and Universities • Municipalities • State Agencies • Non-Profit Organizations Funding Amount: Subject to details of the grant For more information, check out the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program Webpage The Local Crowd Upper Valley Sponsor/Agency: The Local Crowd The Local Crowd Upper Valley, a community-based crowdfunding program hosted by Vital Communities, invites emerging and established businesses based in the Upper Valley of New Hampshire and Vermont to submit project proposals. Projects that benefit the environment, community, and are in Orange and Windsor Counties will receive extra support. Eligible Recipients: Upper Valley Vermont/New Hampshire farmers Funding Amount: Up to $15,000 For more information, check out The Local Crowd Upper Valley Webpage

New Jersey Visit the New Jersey Department of Agriculture Website for more information about resources and programs from the state of New Jersey. Farmland Preservation Program Sponsor/Agency: New Jersey State Agriculture Development Committee Incentives designed to ensure future purpose of land is agricultural use. Farms can choose to sell development easements or to sell their entire property outright. Sales will be made at fair-market value, while easements are sold at the difference between the lands value in agriculture and its value to a developer. Funding Amount: TBD For more information, check out the Farmland Preservation Program Webpage. New Jersey Innovative Healthy Food Retail Initiative Sponsor/Agency: The Food Trust The New Jersey Innovative Healthy Food Retain Initiative targets the disparities in food access across New Jersey. Applicants must submit a project proposal that will expand or preserve the availability of an assortment of staple and perishable foods in high poverty areas. Eligible Recipients: A project that serves a low to moderate income area or a low supermarket area Funding Amount: up to $200,000 For more information, check out the New Jersey Innovative Healthy Food Retail Initiative Webpage New Jersey Wine Industry Project Grants Sponsor/Agency: New Jersey Department of Agriculture The New Jersey Department of Agriculture/ New Jersey Wine Industry Advisory Council (NJWIAC) awards grants for wine industry projects to address research, development and promotion of the New Jersey Wine Industry. Eligible Recipients: Subject to details of the grant Funding Amount: Subject to details of the grant For more information, check out the New Jersey Wine Industry Project Grants Webpage

Nutrient Management Assistance Grant Sponsor/Agency: New Jersey Department of Agriculture BMP stands for Best Management Practices and was created by the NJDA to reduce water pollution through enforcing safe and standardized manure spreading techniques. Farms of any size are required to follow BMPs for the land application of manure. However, many farms lack the equipment that is needed to efficiently and effectively transport and spread manure. This grant opportunity seeks to provide funding to bring critical tools to farms for the implementation of nutrient management BMPs. Funding Amount: Up to $25,000 For more information, check out the Nutrient Management Assistance Grant Webpage Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvements Program Sponsor/Agency: USDA Rural Development This program provides guaranteed loan financing and grant funding to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems or to make energy efficiency improvements. Agricultural producers may also apply for new energy efficient equipment and new system loans for agricultural production and processing. Eligible Recipients: Agricultural Producers and Small Businesses Funding Amount: up to 75% of total eligible project costs For more information, check out the Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvements Program Webpage

Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program Grants Sponsor/Agency: New Jersey Department of Agriculture Grant provides funding for projects that aim to enhance the capacity of aggregating, processing, manufacturing, storing, transporting, wholesaling, and distributing locally and regionally produced food products. These include specialty crops, dairy, grains for human consumption, aquaculture, and other food products. Eligible Recipients: • All businesses must be in New Jersey and be operating middle of the supply chain activities (processing, packing, adding value, shipping) • Agricultural producers or processors • Nonprofit organizations • For- profit entities • Local government entities • Tribal governments • Institutions Funding Amount: • Infrastructure Grant Program: $100,000 - $3,000,000 • Equipment Only Grant Program: $10,000 - $100,000 For more information, check out the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program Grants Webpage Soil and Water Grants Sponsor/Agency: New Jersey State Agriculture Development Committee The State Agriculture Development Committee (SADC) provides grants to help fund up to 50% of the costs of approved soil and water conservation projects on farms enrolled in permanent or eight-year farmland preservation programs. Funding Amount: up to 50% of project costs For more information, check out the Soil and Water Grants Webpage Specialty Crop Block Grant Program Sponsor/Agency: New Jersey Department of Agriculture The New Jersey Department of Agriculture offers eligible organizations the opportunity to apply for a portion of these funds under the New Jersey Specialty Crops Grant Program to conduct projects that benefit New Jersey specialty crops. Funding Amount: Up to $40,000 For more information, check out the, Specialty Crop Block Grant Program Webpage

Underserved, Beginning and Military Veteran Farmers Mini-Grant Program Sponsor/Agency: New Jersey Department of Agriculture The purpose of this grant is to build upon the SCBGP’s mission to enhance New Jersey’s specialty crop industry through our community of underserved farmers. Eligible Recipients: • Qualified agricultural producers who seek to develop projects that will increase production, marketing, and research of specialty crops. • Organizations must be majority-owned (51% or greater) by individuals who identify as either Socially-Disadvantaged (including women), Beginning, or Veteran Farmers. Funding Amount: Up to $5,000 For more information, check out the Underserved, Beginning and Military Veteran Farmers Mini-Grant Program Webpage Wildlife Fencing Sponsor/Agency: New Jersey Department of Agriculture This grant was created to help unpreserved farmers install wildlife fencing to help protect their crops. Eligible Recipients: Unpreserved New Jersey farm owners Funding Amount: 50% matching funds up to $50,000 For more information, check out the Wildlife Fencing Webpage

New York Visit the New York Department of Agriculture and Markets Website for more information about resources and programs from the state of New York. Agricultural Nonpoint Source Abatement and Control Program Sponsor/Agency: New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Program funds are available for nonpoint source abatement and control projects that plan or implement Agricultural Best Management Practice Systems on New York State farms. All projects must consist of activities that will reduce, abate, control or prevent nonpoint source pollution origination from agricultural sources. Grants can cost share up to 75% of project costs or more if farmers contribute to the areas of planning or implementation. Funding Amount: up to 75% of project costs For more information, check out the Agricultural Nonpoint Source Abatement and Control Program Webpage. Agricultural Resiliency Against Tariffs Sponsor/Agency: New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets The Agricultural Resiliency Against Tariffs Program provides direct financial assistance to New York agricultural producers affected by increased costs and market disruptions resulting from federal tariff policies in 2025. The program supports farm resilience by helping eligible producers offset economic impacts experienced across dairy, livestock, specialty crop, and aquaculture sectors. Applications will be accepted until August 11, 2026. Eligible Recipients: New York agricultural producers that were in business during 2025 and remain in operation, have active agricultural production in New York State, and derive at least two-thirds of federal gross income exceeding $30,000 from agricultural activities. Eligible participants include cow dairy farms, livestock and livestock product producers, specialty crop growers, and aquaculture operations. Funding Amount: Direct payments ranging from a minimum of $1,000 to a maximum of $25,000 per legal business entity. The program has $30 million in available funding. For more information, check out the Agricultural Resiliency Against Tariffs Webpage

Agriculture Energy Audit Program Sponsor/Agency: New York State Energy and Research Development Authority The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) offers free energy audits to identify energy efficiency measures for eligible farms and on-farm producers, including but not limited to dairies, orchards, greenhouses, vegetables, vineyards, grain dryers and poultry/egg. In addition, greenhouse facilities can receive a free benchmarking report that describes their energy use intensity and benchmarks their facility against an anonymous aggregate of peer facilities. Eligible Recipients: Farms who are customers of New York State investor-owned utilities and contribute to the electric System Benefits Charge (SBC) Funding Amount: Dependent For more information, check out the Agriculture Energy Audit Program Webpage Beginning Farmer Competitive Grant Program Sponsor/Agency: New York Farm Viability Institute (NYFVI) in partnership with the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets The Beginning Farmer Competitive Grant Program supports beginning farmers in New York State as they build financially sustainable and independent agricultural enterprises. Funding may be used for farm start-up, improvement, or expansion projects, including the purchase of land, equipment, livestock, infrastructure improvements, marketing initiatives, workforce training, and other investments that strengthen farm financial viability. Eligible Recipients: New York beginning farmers with 10 years or less of farm operation experience who materially and substantially participate in operating a farm located in New York State. Applicants must demonstrate that the proposed project will improve business growth and financial sustainability. Funding Amount: Grants ranging from $5,000 to $200,000 with a required 5% match. Track 1 awards range from $5,000–$50,000, and Track 2 awards range from $50,001–$200,000. For more information, check out the Beginning Farmer Competitive Grant Program Webpage Dairy Advancement Program Sponsor/Agency: Cornell CALS PRO-DAIRY The Dairy Advancement Program is an initiative of the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets and the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation designed to enhance profitability of New York dairy farms. Funding is made available for business planning/analysis, certification management or designing new/remodeled facilities. In the past, this program has been utilized for Farm Credit East Consulting Services. Eligible Recipients: New York Dairy Cattle Farm that ships milk Funding Amount: Dependent on Project Type For more information, check out the Dairy Advancement Program Website

Farmland Protection Implementation Grants Sponsor/Agency: New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Municipalities, counties, Soil and Water Conservation Districts, and land trusts are eligible to apply for individual grants of up to $2 million to help offset the costs of conservation easement projects that protect viable agricultural land from being converted to non-agricultural use. Eligible Recipients: Dependent on Grant Funding Amount: Dependent on Grant For more information, check out the Farmland Protection Implementation Grants Program Webpage Farm-to-School Program Sponsor/Agency: New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets The New York State Farm-to-School Program was created to connect schools with local farms and food producers to strengthen local agriculture, improve student health, and promote regional food systems awareness. The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets provides financial assistance to New York State schools through New York State’s Farm-to-School program. It also provides technical and promotional assistance to schools, farms, distributors and other supporting organizations to bring more local, nutritious, seasonally varied meals to New York students. Eligible Recipients: • Kindergarten through Grade 12 Food Authorities • Public, Charter, and Not-for-Profit Schools • Indian Tribal Organizations • Other entities participating in the National School Lunch Program, the School Breakfast Program, or the Summer Food Service Program. • Non-for-profit entities working with school food authorities and eligible schools Funding Amount: up to $100,000 For more information, check out the Farm-to-School Program Webpage John May Farm Safety Fund Sponsor/Agency: New York Center for Agriculture and Health Cost share funding for New York farmers that need financial help improving safety on their farms. After a NYCAMH farm safety audit occurs, 50% up to $5,000 of the cost to improve priority area concerns could be made available. Eligible Recipients: An active farmer who is a New York State resident, that has a gross annual farm income of $10,000-$999,999 or any size dairy farm. Funding Amount: up to $5,000 (must not exceed 50% of the estimated total project cost) For more information, check out the John May Farm Safety Fund Webpage

Milk Security Program Sponsor/Agency: New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets The main objective of the security program is to protect producers against loss of income in the event a milk dealer defaults in paying for milk received. Pursuant to Section 258-b of Agriculture and Markets Law, licensed dealers who purchase milk directly from producers or cooperatives are required to secure their purchases by either participating in the state’s Milk Producers Security Fund (MPSF) or by filing full alternate security in the form of a bond or letter of credit. Milk sales between cooperatives are exempt from this security provision. Eligible Recipients: Licensed Dealers how purchase milk directly from producers or cooperatives Funding Amount: Dealers participating in the MPSF must pay a $0.012 per hundredweight assessment on milk purchases and, unless exempt, provide financial security (surety bond or letter of credit) covering at least 12 days of purchases, with exemptions generally available for dealers whose 40-day purchases are under $250,000. For more information, check out the Milk Security Program Webpage National Grid Incentives Sponsor/Agency: National Grid For businesses whose energy provider is National Grid, the company has a number of incentives for renewable energy projects or energy efficiency programs. Eligible Recipients: Dependent on Service/Rebate Funding Amount: Dependent on Service/Rebate For more information, check out the National Grid Incentives Webpage

FVI Grant Program Sponsor/Agency: NY Farm Viability Institute NYFVI proposals will be judged based on the project's potential to help NYFVI achieve its mission to help New York farms become more economically viable. NYFVI is most interested in projects that will create knowledge to quickly and directly benefit farmers through work in one of the five portfolio priority areas: • Improve Operational Practices • Foster Industry-wide Innovation • Incubate New Ideas • Increase Routes to Market and Improve Marketing Practices • Develop Human Capital Eligible Recipients: • Farmer Groups • Researchers and Educators • Organizations, Agencies, and Businesses Funding Amount: $15,000-$125,000 For more information, check out the FVI Grant Program Webpage NYFVI Focus Opportunity Grants Focus Opportunity (FOC) projects typically have unique conditions related to urgent, emerging needs or high priority areas. Projects may have a broader scope or require more coordination and multi-discipline collaboration than other efforts funded by the New York Farm Viability Institute. FOC funds have also been used as matching funds for other grants. Funding priority goes to proposals that include farmer participation across agriculture sectors, production and management systems or regions of the state. Eligible Recipients: • Farmer Groups • Researchers and Educators • Organizations, Agencies, and Businesses Funding Amount: $15,000-$125,000 For more information, check out the NYFVI Focus Opportunity Grants Webpage NYS Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) Sponsor/Agency: New York State Energy Research and Development Authority NYSERDA has a number of programs to help farmers with energy conservation and renewable energy projects. Eligible Recipients: Dependent on Program Funding Amount: Dependent on Program For more information, check out the NYS Energy Research and Development Authority Webpage 63

NYS Good Agricultural Practices/Good Handling Practices Sponsor/Agency: New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets The Good Agricultural Practices (GAP)/Good Handling Practices (GHP) Certification Assistance Program is a cost-share/reimbursement program designed to assist New York State’s specialty crop industry with the cost of a GAP/GHP food safety audit. Funding Amount: up to $2,000 the cost of the audit For more information, check out the NYS Good Agricultural Practices Webpage Urban and Community Forestry Grants Sponsor/Agency: New York State Department of Environmental Conservation This reimbursement grant program focusses on partnerships, volunteers, community groups, professionals, and outreach and education because these are components of strong and sustainable community forestry programs. Eligible project categories include tree inventories, management plans, tree planting, maintenance and education programming for those who care for community trees. Eligible Recipients: • New York municipalities • Quasi-government entities • Not-for-Profit Corporations Funding Amount: Dependent on Grant Program For more information, check out the Urban and Community Forestry Grants Webpage USDA Specialty Crop Block Program Sponsor/Agency: NY Farm Viability Institute The New York Farm Viability Institute partnered with New York State’s Department of Agriculture and Markets (NYSDAM) to manage the New York State’s USDA Specialty Crop Block Program. This program seeks work that will achieve the following outcomes: improve pest control & disease control processes, develop new seed varieties & specialty crops, expand specialty crop research and development, and improve environmental sustainability of specialty crops. Eligible Recipients: • Non-for-Profit Organizations • Not-for-Profit Educational Institutions • Local and Tribal Governments Funding Amount: $50,000-$200,000 For more information, check out the USDA Specialty Crop Block Program Webpage

Pennsylvania Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture for more information about resources and programs from the state of Pennsylvania. Agricultural Promotion Matching Grant Program Sponsor/Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture The Agricultural Promotion Matching Grant Program provides matching funds to support nonprofit organizations engaged in market research, education, promotion, and export development for agricultural products grown, raised, or produced in Pennsylvania. The program aims to expand market opportunities, increase consumer awareness, and strengthen domestic and international demand for Pennsylvania agricultural products. Eligible Recipients: Nonprofit organizations involved in market research, marketing, promotion, or export development of Pennsylvania agricultural products. Preference is given to organizations with international marketing experience. Funding Amount: Matching grants covering up to 50% of eligible project costs, with a minimum grant award of $1,000. The 2025–2026 program has up to $381,810 available for funding. For more information, check out the Agricultural Promotion Matching Grant Program Webpage Conservation Excellence Grant Sponsor/Agency: Pennsylvania State Conservation Commission The Conservation Excellence Grant (CEG) Program provides financial and technical assistance to Pennsylvania farmers for implementing conservation best management practices (BMPs) that improve environmental stewardship and water quality. Funding is distributed through local conservation districts and supports projects that help farmers adopt effective conservation measures in priority agricultural areas. Eligible Recipients: Pennsylvania farmers and agricultural operations implementing eligible conservation projects through their local county conservation district. Funding Amount: Up to $250,000 per project through grants, loans, tax credits, or a combination of funding sources. Small grants are also available for projects under $25,000. For more information, check out the Conservation Excellence Grant Webpage

Dirt, Gravel, and Low Volume Road Maintenance Program Sponsor/Agency: Pennsylvania State Conservation Commission The Dirt, Gravel, and Low Volume Road (DGLVR) Maintenance Program provides grant funding to reduce stream pollution caused by runoff and sediment from publicly owned dirt, gravel, and low-volume roads in Pennsylvania. The program supports environmentally sensitive road maintenance practices that improve water quality and road infrastructure. Eligible Recipients: Pennsylvania state agencies and local municipal entities that own eligible dirt, gravel, or low-volume roads. Roads must be open to public motor vehicle travel, impact a stream or other water body through drainage, and meet program eligibility requirements. Funding Amount: Funding varies by project and county allocation. The program receives an annual state appropriation of $28 million, with at least $8 million dedicated to low-volume paved roads. Grants are awarded through county conservation districts. For more information, check out the Dirt, Gravel, and Low Volume Road Maintenance Program Webpage Farm Vitality Grant Sponsor/Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture The Farm Vitality Planning Grant Program helps Pennsylvania farmers fund professional services that support long-term farm viability. The program is designed to strengthen farm businesses through business planning, ownership transitions, strategic expansion, diversification of agricultural production, financing planning, and the development of financial and technical advisory teams. Eligible Recipients: Pennsylvania farm owners and operators seeking professional planning assistance related to farm business management, succession planning, expansion, diversification, or other activities that support long-term farm vitality. Funding Amount: Up to $15,000, covering 75% of eligible project costs on a reimbursement basis. Applicants are responsible for the remaining 25% of project costs. For more information, check out the Farm Vitality Grant Webpage Financial Assistance Programs for Organic Sponsor/Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture The Organic Certification Cost-Share Program (OCCSP) helps offset the cost of annual organic certification for certified organic operations in Pennsylvania. The program reimburses a portion of certification expenses to support producers and handlers maintaining USDA organic certification. Eligible Recipients: Certified organic operations, including those certified for crops, wild crops, livestock, and processing/handling activities. Funding Amount: Reimbursement of 75% of eligible organic certification costs, up to $750 per certification scope (crops, wild crops, livestock, and processing/handling). For more information, check out the Financial Assistance Programs for Organic Webpage

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Recovery Reimbursement Grant Sponsor/Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture The Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Recovery Reimbursement Grant Program provides reimbursement to Pennsylvania farms, integrators, and allied poultry industries that experienced financial losses due to HPAI and were impacted by quarantine or control zones. The program also supports biosecurity improvements to help prevent future outbreaks and strengthen disease prevention measures across the poultry industry. Eligible Recipients: Pennsylvania farms, integrators, and allied poultry industry businesses that experienced financial losses from HPAI or are implementing eligible biosecurity improvements. Funding Amount: Up to $25,000 per premises for eligible biosecurity reimbursements; recovery reimbursement amounts vary based on documented losses and available funding. For more information, check out the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Recovery Reimbursement Grant Webpage Next Generation Farmer Loan Program Sponsor/Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) The Next Generation Farmer Loan Program uses federal tax-exempt financing to provide reduced-interest loans for beginning and next-generation farmers. The program helps farmers finance capital purchases that support agricultural operations, including farmland acquisition, agricultural improvements, and equipment purchases. Eligible Recipients: Beginning and next-generation farmers seeking financing for eligible agricultural land, agricultural improvements, or depreciable agricultural property. Funding Amount: Loans of up to $682,000, with no more than $62,500 used for the purchase of used equipment. For more information, check out the Next Generation Farmer Loan Program Webpage

Pennsylvania Agricultural Surplus System Sponsor/Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (administered through Feeding Pennsylvania) The Pennsylvania Agricultural Surplus System (PASS) reimburses Pennsylvania farmers and food producers for costs associated with harvesting, processing, packaging, and transporting surplus agricultural products for donation to the charitable food system. The program helps reduce food waste, support local farms, and increase access to nutritious food for those experiencing food insecurity. PASS supports both surplus products and planned donations through contract planting arrangements. Eligible Recipients: Pennsylvania farmers and agricultural producers with eligible surplus food or agricultural products, including fruits, vegetables, eggs, dairy, poultry, pork, beef, grains, and value-added products made with Pennsylvania-sourced ingredients. Funding Amount: Reimbursement for eligible costs associated with harvesting, processing, packaging, and transporting donated agricultural products. Funding amounts vary based on approved project costs and available program funding. For more information, check out the Pennsylvania Agricultural Surplus System Webpage Resource Enhancement & Protection (REAP) Program Sponsor/Agency: Pennsylvania State Conservation Commission The Resource Enhancement & Protection (REAP) Program provides Pennsylvania income tax credits to farmers, landowners, and businesses that implement conservation best management practices (BMPs) that improve water quality and reduce environmental impacts. The program helps offset the cost of conservation projects while encouraging the adoption of practices that reduce nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment pollution. Eligible Recipients: Pennsylvania farmers, landowners, and businesses that are in compliance with Pennsylvania Clean Streams Law requirements and implement eligible conservation best management practices. Non-agricultural businesses and individuals may also participate by sponsoring eligible projects. Funding Amount: Tax credits equal to 50%, 75%, or 90% of eligible project costs, depending on the conservation practice. Agricultural operations may receive up to $250,000 in REAP tax credits within a seven-year period. For more information, check out the Resource Enhancement & Protection Program Webpage

Small Business Advantage Grant Sponsor/Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection The Small Business Advantage Grant Program provides reimbursement grants to Pennsylvania small businesses for projects that improve energy efficiency, reduce pollution or waste, upgrade equipment, improve operational processes, or reduce runoff into affected waterways. The program helps businesses lower operating costs while reducing their environmental impact. Eligible Recipients: Pennsylvania-based small businesses with 100 or fewer full-time employees undertaking eligible energy efficiency, pollution prevention, or natural resource projects. Funding Amount: Reimbursement grants covering 50% to 80% of eligible project costs, with maximum awards ranging from $7,500 to $12,000 depending on the project's environmental impact and whether the business is located in an Environmental Justice Area. For more information, check out the Small Business Advantage Grant Webpage Urban Agriculture Infrastructure Grant Sponsor/Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture The Urban Agriculture Infrastructure Grant Program provides reimbursement grants to support individuals and organizations investing in urban agriculture infrastructure across Pennsylvania. The program aims to strengthen urban agriculture systems by addressing infrastructure gaps, encouraging collaboration, expanding operations, overcoming food deserts, and creating opportunities for social entrepreneurship. Grants are available as micro grants for one-time projects and collaboration grants for larger-scale efforts. Eligible Recipients: Individuals and entities investing in urban agriculture infrastructure projects in Pennsylvania through eligible urban agriculture initiatives and collaborations. Funding Amount: Varies by grant type (Micro Grants and Collaboration Grants available) For more information, check out the Urban Agriculture Infrastructure Grant Webpage Very Small Meat and Poultry Processor Reimbursement Grant Sponsor/Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture The Very Small Meat and Poultry Processor Reimbursement Grant Program supports the growth of Pennsylvania’s very small meat and poultry processing industry by reimbursing eligible expenses related to opening new processing operations, expanding existing facilities, and obtaining a USDA Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) Grant of Inspection. The program helps increase processing capacity, improve services for livestock and poultry producers, and expand access to Pennsylvania-produced meat and poultry products. Eligible Recipients: Very small meat and poultry processing operations in Pennsylvania that are currently operating under a USDA Grant of Inspection or will obtain a Grant of Inspection upon completion of the approved project. Funding Amount: Up to $100,000 per applicant For more information, check out the Very Small Meat and Poultry Processor Reimbursement Grant Webpage 69

Rhode Island Visit the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management for more information about resources and programs from the state of Rhode Island. Agricultural Energy Grant Program Sponsor/Agency: Rhode Island Office of Energy Resource The Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources (OER) manages the Agricultural Energy Grant Program that provides grants of up to $20,000 for eligible energy efficiency and renewable energy projects located on farms throughout Rhode Island. Our goal is to support clean energy projects in the agricultural sector. Eligible Recipients: Agricultural entities with a physical location located in Rhode Island that can demonstrate that it has produced at least $2,500 in income from agricultural operations in one of the last two calendar years Funding Amount: up to $20,000 For more information, check out the Agricultural Energy Grant Program Webpage Local Agriculture and Seafood Act (LASA) Grants Program Sponsor/Agency: Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, Division of Agriculture administers a Local Agriculture and Seafood Act Grants Program. The goal of the program is to support the growth, development and marketing of local food and seafood in Rhode Island. It is made possible by funding from the State of Rhode Island and matching foundation funds. This unique and unprecedented public-private partnership will provide grants intended to directly benefit and strengthen the local food system in Rhode Island. Eligible Recipients: • For-profit Farmers • Fishermen/women • Producer Groups • Non-Profit Organizations Funding Amount: up to $20,000 For more information, check out the Local Agriculture and Seafood Act Grants Program Webpage

Rhode Island Agricultural Energy Program Sponsor/Agency: Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management To promote a shift towards renewable energy in farming practices, DEM is offering a grant to support the construction costs of green energy projects. Green energy focused investments help benefit the environment and help farmers save on energy costs. Eligible Recipients: Agricultural businesses in Rhode Island Funding Amount: Up to $20,000 For more information, check out the Rhode Island Agricultural Energy Program Webpage Specialty Crop Block Grant Program Sponsor/Agency: Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management The purpose of the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) is to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops. Specialty crops are defined as “fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops (including floriculture).” Eligible Recipients: • Organizations • Industry Groups • Academic Institutions Funding Amount: Approximately $270,000 in total funding is available statewide, with recent average grant awards of about $42,000–$44,000 per project and no maximum award limit. For more information, check out the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program Webpage

Vermont Visit the State of Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets for more information about resources and programs from the state of Vermont. Agricultural Clean Water Program Sponsor/Agency: Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets (VAAFM) Water Quality Division supports businesses, organizations, or individuals to work with farms to support the improvement of water quality across the state of Vermont through education and outreach, technical assistance, organizational capacity development, and conservation practice surveys. Eligible Recipients: • Farm Operations or Agricultural Associations • Local Government Entities • Public or Private Schools • Other Educational Institutions • Nonprofit Organizations working with Vermont farms Funding Amount: Up to $8M available through this funding opportunity For more information, check out the Agricultural Clean Water Program Webpage Capital Equipment Assistance Program (CEAP) Sponsor/Agency: Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets Financial assistance is available for new or innovative equipment that will aid in the reduction of surface runoff of agricultural wastes to state waters, improve water quality of state waters, reduce odors from manure application, separate phosphorus from manure, decrease greenhouse gas emissions, and reduce costs to farmers when they apply manure. Eligible Recipients: • Vermont Farms • Custom Operators • Non-Profit Organizations • Phosphorus Extraction Equipment Providers Funding Amount: up to $70,000 (Dependent on Equipment Type) For more information, check out the Capital Equipment Assistance Program Webpage

Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) Sponsor/Agency: Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets Vermont’s CREP is a voluntary program designed to reduce sediment runoff and improve water quality by removing land from agricultural production and establishing vegetative buffers. State and federal funds are used to compensate landowners for the loss of productive agricultural land through upfront incentive payments and annual rental payments based on the total acreage dedicated to vegetated filter strips, forested buffers or grassed waterways. Federal cost-share and incentive payments are available to cover 90% of the implementation costs associated with fencing, alternative water systems, stream crossings and vegetative buffer establishment. In most instances the costs may be 100% covered with help from the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Eligible Recipients: Vermont Farms adjacent to a perennial stream or river that lack vegetative buffers and have agricultural related water quality impacts Funding Amounts: 90% of the implementation costs For more information, check out the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program Webpage Diesel Emissions Reduction Assistance Sponsor/Agency: Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets This grant helps to support farmers that are interested in switching over old diesel engines to a newer system or a different kind of engine. There are 2 routes that you can take each with funding limits. If you want to replace a diesel engine and switch to a new, zero tailpipe exhaust vehicle (grid, battery, or fuel cell), you are eligible for up to 45% of the costs to be covered. You can also install a newer cleaner diesel engine or a hybrid and get funded for up to 25% of the project. Eligible Recipients: All farms and businesses located in Vermont Funding Amount: Dependent on Program For more information, check out the Diesel Emissions Reduction Assistance Webpage

Engineering Services and Farmstead Best Management Practices Program Sponsor/Agency: Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets The Agricultural Engineering Section assists farmers with on-farm improvements designed to abate non-point source agricultural waste discharges into the waters of the state of Vermont. The Section administers three programs to assist farmers: 1) The EQIP-Assist Program is an opportunity for farmers with NRCS EQIP contracts to receive additional cost share on the practices installed as part of the EQIP contract. 2) The Technical Assistance Program is available to provide water quality compliance consultations, state permitting assistance or variance assistance. 3) The Farmstead Best Management Practices (BMP) Program provides engineering services on a priority basis for the design of BMPs at no cost to the farmer and can cost share on the construction of eligible practices. Eligible Recipients: Farms who comply with Vermont’s Required Agricultural Practices Funding Amount: Dependent on Program For more information, check out the Engineering Services and Farmstead Best Management Practices Program Webpage Eric Rozendaal Memorial Award Sponsor/Agency: Vermont Land Trust Eric Rozendaal was a thoughtful, creative, and entrepreneurial farmer. After he passed away in July of 2018 this award was created to honor his memory. Yearly one farmer is selected and awarded $5,000, for embodying the values that Eric lived by. Eligible Recipients: Vermont farmers Funding Amount: $5,000 For more information, check out the Eric Rozendaal Memorial Award Webpage Farm Agronomic Practices (FAP) Program Sponsor/Agency: Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets The Farm Agronomic Practices program utilizes state funding to help Vermont farms implement soil-based agronomic practices that improve soil quality, increase crop production, and reduce erosion and agricultural waste discharges. The FAP program also provides education and instructional activity grants to support outreach regarding the impacts of agricultural practices on water quality and current state agricultural water quality regulations. Eligible Recipients: • Farms who comply with Vermont’s Required Agricultural Practices • Organizations and Businesses providing educational events for Vermont Farms Funding Amount: up to $10,000 For more information, check out the Farm Agronomic Practices Program Webpage

Farm to Institution Market Development Grants Sponsor/Agency: Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets The Farm to Institution Market Development Grant (formerly Local Market Food Development Grant) is intended to support market development opportunities for local food producers and market processors, with a focus on Vermont institutional markets. Funding is provided to help improve local producer access to, and engagement with local schools, hospitals, correctional facilities, and other local institutions. Eligible Recipients: • Vermont Farm of Food Businesses • Vermont Producer Groups or Associations • Supply Chain Facilitators Funding Amount: $10,000-$30,000 For more information, check out the Farm to Institution Market Development Grants Webpage. Farm to School and Early Childhood Capacity Building Grant Sponsor/Agency: Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets The Farm to School and Early Childhood Capacity Building Grant will help organizations develop and expand farm to school programs to enhance relationships with local farmers and producers. Along with financial support, grantees will receive technical assistance from the Vermont Farm to School an Early Childhood Network and partner organizations to help implement these changes. Eligible Recipients: Any of the following entities: Vermont resident or licensed early care providers Independent schools participating in any federal child nutrition programs Individual public schools Supervisory unions or educational districts on behalf of a public school or consortium of schools Funding Amount: Dependent on grant For more information, check out the Farm to School and Early Childhood Capacity Building Webpage

Grassed Waterway and Filter Strip (GWFS) Program Sponsor/Agency: Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets The Grassed Waterway and Filter Strip (GWFS) program provides technical and financial assistance to Vermont farmers for in-field agronomic best practices to address critical source areas, erosion and surface runoff. The program’s goal is to reduce soil erosion and improve soil and water quality on cropland that contributes a disproportionately high level of nutrients in runoff. Such areas of cropland are considered “Critical Source Areas” (CSAs), representing a small proportion of the landscape yet a high proportion of nonpoint source pollution loads. Eligible Recipients: Vermont farm with an annual cropping history within 5 years and adjacent to surface waters and/or ditches Funding Amount: 90% of installation costs For more information, check out the Grassed Waterway and Filter Strip Program Webpage. Historic Preservations Barn Grants Sponsor/Agency: Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets Established in 1992, the State-funded Barn Preservation Grant program helps individuals, municipalities, and non-profit organizations to rehabilitate the historic agricultural buildings that are a symbol of Vermont’s rural landscape. This is the oldest state-funded agricultural-based grant program in the United States. Eligible Recipients: Vermont Barn Owners Funding Amount: 50/50 matching grant up to $20,000 For more information, check out the Historic Preservations Barn Grants Webpage Pasture and Surface Water Fencing (PSWF) Program Sponsor/Agency: Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets The Pasture and Surface Water Fencing (PSWF) Program provides pasture management technical assistance and financial assistance to Vermont farmers to improve water quality and on-farm livestock exclusion from surface waters statewide. Eligible Recipients: Vermont Farms Funding Amount: up to $10,000 or $15,000 (Dependent on Type of Project) For more information, check out the Pasture and Surface Water Fencing Program Webpage

The Local Crowd Upper Valley Sponsor/Agency: The Local Crowd The Local Crowd Upper Valley, a community-based crowdfunding program hosted by Vital Communities, invites emerging and established businesses based in the Upper Valley of New Hampshire and Vermont to submit project proposals. Projects that benefit the environment, community, and are in Orange and Windsor Counties will receive extra support. Eligible Recipients: Upper Valley Vermont/New Hampshire farmers Funding Amount: Up to $15,000 For more information, check out The Local Crowd Upper Valley Webpage. Vermont Farmworker Housing Repair Loan Program Sponsor/Agency: Champlain Housing Trust The Vermont Farmworker Housing Repair Loan Program gives farmers a forgivable loan to make any necessary improvements to farmworker housing. These programs help to improve the health and well being of the farm workforce, Eligible Recipients: Units include manufactured homes, stick-built homes, and apartments in barns or other buildings going under health and safety related repairs. Funding Amount: $30,000 at 0% forgiven over 10 years For more information, check out the Vermont Farmworker Housing Repair Loan Program Webpage Working Lands Enterprise Grants Sponsor/Agency: Vermont Working Lands Enterprise Initiative The Working Lands Enterprise Initiative (WLEI) offers funding opportunities to a variety of business structures encompassing forest, farm, and food enterprises. These include producer associations, farms, food cooperatives, business assistance provider organizations and more. The Working Lands Enterprise Board (WLEB) meets each summer to decide which funding opportunities to offer for the coming year based on the available funds and the needs across Vermont. Eligible Recipients: Dependent on Grant Funding Amount: Dependent on Grant For more information, check out the Working Lands Enterprise Grants Webpage

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2026 Grants and Incentives for Northeast Agriculture