Multi-year funding for nonprofit-led projects that link low-income communities to local food — incubator farms, food hubs, market access programs, and community gardens with a production component.
The eligibility and application details below are general guidance for this kind of program, not text copied from the funder. The facts above — who runs it, how much, and when it closes — are hand-checked. Always confirm specifics on the official page.
Am I eligible?
Open nationwide — check for state-level ranking or set-asides
Non-profits, co-ops, and community organizations may apply
Tribes, tribal producers, and tribal enterprises are eligible
Active SAM.gov registration and UEI number required before award
Must be in compliance with USDA/federal program rules (AGI limits, conservation compliance)
Matching funds or in-kind contribution may be requested
How to apply
1Read the current program page or notice of funding to confirm this cycle's rules
2Contact USDA NIFA before writing — most funders will tell you if you are a fit
3Register in SAM.gov and get a UEI (this can take 2–4 weeks — start early)
4Draft the narrative, budget, and any required letters of support
5Submit before the posted deadline; late applications are not accepted
6Sign the award agreement and track spending for reporting
What you'll need
Farm or business name, address, and tax ID / EIN
SAM.gov UEI number and active registration
Project description and itemized budget
Maps, photos, or quotes for anything you plan to build or buy
Proof of land ownership or a lease covering the project period
Organizational documents (501(c)(3) letter, board list) if applying as a non-profit
Timeline & contact
Expect 2–6 months from deadline to award notice, plus contracting time
Get help: USDA NIFA — your local USDA Service Center or state office can walk you through it
Ready to apply?
Applications go through USDA NIFA, not through this site. Open the official page below for eligibility rules, forms, and contacts. For federal programs it's worth calling your local USDA Service Center or Cooperative Extension office first — they help with paperwork for free and know what your county actually funds.
General operating support for organizations strengthening food and farming systems, protecting land, and increasing equity in agriculture. Nonprofit or fiscally sponsored applicants only.
Open nationwide — check for state-level ranking or set-asides
Non-profits, co-ops, and community organizations may apply
Very small, low-paperwork grants for biodiversity, seed saving, school gardens, and community food projects. A realistic first grant for a grower with no grant-writing history.
Open nationwide — check for state-level ranking or set-asides
Individual farmers, ranchers, and farm businesses may apply
Typically $500–$5,000
Community food systemsIndividual producerNon-profitOther
A crowdfunding challenge plus matching grants for community food garden projects, including urban farms and school growing spaces. Every participant raises money whether or not they win the top grants.
Open nationwide — check for state-level ranking or set-asides
Non-profits, co-ops, and community organizations may apply