Funding Resources
Overview: Farm Bill Programs & Grants
For access to a quick guide to federal farm and food-related programs and grants from the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition, visit their website to learn more.
USDA Agriculture Marketing Service Grant Programs
Specialty Crop Block Grant Program – This program provides grants to individual state departments of agriculture to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops (defined as: fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, and nursery crops (including floriculture)). The state departments of agriculture then distribute their grant funds to individual producers of specialty crops in their state.
Contact your State Department of Agriculture for information on these or other programs available in your state.
Natural Resource Conservation Service Programs
EQIP Organic Initiative Program – The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) works with landowners through conservation planning and assistance designed to benefit the soil, water, air, plants and animals that result in productive lands and healthy ecosystems. Funds are available for those transitioning to organic and currently certified organic producers through EQIP (Environmental Quality Incentive Program). For further information and to apply, visit: www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/eqip/organic.
Visit www.nrcs/usda/gov/programs for information on additional funding programs that may apply to your operation, including:
- Farm & Ranch Lands Protection Program
- Grassland Reserve Program
- Health Forests Reserve Program
- Agricultural Management Assistance Program
More information on these and other NRCS programs can be found at www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs or by contacting your State NRCS Office.