Micro-grants supporting people pursuing long-term careers in farming, ranching, fishing, and aquaculture, with a small-farm focus.
Typical award
4–6 grants of $1,000–$5,000+
Deadline
Annual application window ~July
Type of support
Funding / grants · Beginning farmer & career development
Who can apply
Individual producer, Beginning / underserved
Fits these operations
Mixed / diversified, Vegetables & produce, Orchard & fruit
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
Individual farmers, ranchers, and farm businesses may apply
Beginning, veteran, and historically underserved producers are prioritized
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 Pine Cone Foundation before writing — most funders will tell you if you are a fit
3Draft the narrative, budget, and any required letters of support
4Submit before the posted deadline; late applications are not accepted
5Sign the award agreement and track spending for reporting
What you'll need
Farm or business name, address, and tax ID / EIN
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
Timeline & contact
Expect 2–6 months from deadline to award notice, plus contracting time
Get help: Pine Cone Foundation — contact details are on the official program page
Ready to apply?
Applications go through Pine Cone Foundation, 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.