Federal Grants for Farmers

Federal grants for farmers provide direct funding, cost-share assistance, and loan programs supporting all aspects of agricultural operations including crop production, livestock management, farm business development, conservation practices, equipment purchase, and rural community infrastructure. Federal programs administered through USDA, Department of Commerce, and other agencies offer billions in annual funding to support the agricultural community. Below are 43 verified federal grants for farmers.

Types of Federal Grants for Farmers

Operating Assistance & Equipment

Farm operating loans, equipment purchase assistance, technology adoption, seed stock, fuel assistance, and farm management grants for day-to-day farming operations.

Conservation & Environmental

Conservation Stewardship Program, EQIP cost-share, soil health, water quality, wetland restoration, and environmental sustainability grant programs.

Business Development & Marketing

Value-added agriculture grants, agritourism development, farmer market development, cooperative development, and farm business planning assistance.

Specialty Programs

Beginning farmer programs, minority/socially disadvantaged farmer grants, women farmer support, organic transition assistance, and specialty crop development.

Major Federal Farmer Grant Programs

USDA Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)

Funding: $8.9B annually (~$23K-$38K/year)

Focus: Annual payments for improving soil health, water quality, wildlife habitat, and carbon sequestration

Eligibility: Farmers with land in agricultural production

Website: NRCS CSP

Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP)

Funding: Cost-share up to 75% (max $450K/year)

Focus: Cost-share assistance for installing conservation practices

Practices: Irrigation, grazing management, crop rotation, cover crops, erosion control

Website: NRCS EQIP

FSA Farm Loans (Direct & Guaranteed)

Funding: Up to $1.8M (land), $600K (operating)

Purpose: Farm land acquisition, operating expenses, equipment, facilities

Terms: Lower interest rates than commercial loans, favorable repayment terms

Website: FSA Loans

Beginning Farmer Programs

Funding: Down payment assistance (40% of down payment), microloans (up to $35K)

Eligibility: Operations less than 10 years old, income under $350K

Support: Lower interest rates, longer repayment terms, direct assistance

Website: Beginning Farmers

Agricultural Marketing Service Grants

Funding: Competitive grants for market development

Focus: Value-added agriculture, organic promotion, specialty crop development, local food systems

Awards: Typically $50K-$500K per project

Website: AMS Grants

USDA Rural Development (RD) Grants

Funding: Infrastructure and community development grants

Programs: Water systems, broadband infrastructure, business grants, community facilities

Areas: Rural areas with population under 50,000

Website: USDA RD

Who Can Apply for Federal Farmer Grants?

Federal farmer grants serve diverse agricultural audiences. Most programs are open to all farmers, while others target specific demographics or farm types.

All Farmers & Ranchers: Most programs open to farms of any size or commodity type
Beginning Farmers: Operations less than 10 years old with income under $350K receive enhanced support
Socially Disadvantaged Farmers: African American, Hispanic, Native American, Asian, women, and LGBTQ+ farmers receive priority
Organic & Sustainable Farmers: Enhanced support and higher payment rates for certified organic and sustainable operations
Specialty Crop Farmers: Fruit, vegetable, horticulture, and specialty crop producers eligible
Livestock & Ranchers: Cattle, poultry, dairy, sheep, swine, and other livestock operations
Farm Cooperatives: Agricultural cooperatives, marketing associations, and farmer-owned businesses
Rural Communities: Rural nonprofits and communities eligible for infrastructure and development grants

Frequently Asked Questions

What grants are available for farmers with no experience?

Excellent news for new farmers: USDA has dedicated beginning farmer programs including Down Payment Loans (cover up to 40% of down payment for land/equipment), Direct Farm Loans with favorable terms, and Microloan Program (up to $35K). Definition of "beginning farmer": operating less than 10 years, personal labor is 50% or less of management, annual income under $350K. No experience requirement—many programs specifically target no-experience farmers transitioning to agriculture. Additional support: NRCS provides free conservation planning and technical assistance, many states offer beginning farmer mentorship, extension services provide business planning. Start by contacting your local FSA office to explore loan options and your NRCS office for conservation support. Allow 2-3 months for loan approval.

How much federal farm funding can I get?

Funding depends on program type and your farm characteristics: (1) CSP annual payments: $23K-$38K/year for conservation practices, (2) EQIP cost-share: 75% of practice costs up to $450K/year, (3) FSA Direct Loans: up to $1.8M for land, $600K for operations, (4) Beginning Farmer Down Payment: up to 40% of down payment, (5) Microloans: up to $35K, (6) Marketing/Value-Added grants: $50K-$500K per project. Combining programs increases total available: example—farm combining CSP ($30K/year) + EQIP ($200K for practice installation) + FSA equipment loan ($100K) + state grants could total $300K+ in annual support. Maximize by applying to multiple programs aligned with your farm operation goals.

What if I farm part-time or have a small farm?

Federal grants available for all farm sizes and part-time operations: CSP and EQIP have no minimum farm size requirement—payments/cost-share calculated based on actual practices and acreage, FSA Direct Loans available for operations as small as $5K annual revenue, Farm Microloan Program designed for small/part-time operations (up to $35K). Part-time farmers qualify for most programs if meeting income thresholds and operation requirements. Some programs specifically support small farmers: USDA Beginning Farmer programs, Specialty Crop Grants often favor smaller producers, Organic transition grants available regardless of size. Contact USDA office to confirm eligibility for your specific farm size—no size minimums for most programs.

How do I apply for federal farm grants?

Process varies by program: (1) FSA Loans: Visit county FSA office, complete loan application with tax returns, financial statements, farm records. (2) NRCS Conservation Programs (CSP/EQIP): Contact county NRCS office, develop conservation plan, submit application during signup windows (typically Feb-April). (3) Marketing Grants: Submit competitive applications through AMS website on published deadlines. (4) Specialty Programs: Vary by agency—check Grants.gov for all federal opportunities. Timeline: 2-6 months from submission to approval decision. Start by locating your county USDA office (FSA + NRCS) at USDA Service Locator. Services are completely free.

Are minorities and women farmers eligible for special grants?

Yes. USDA has strong diversity programs: Socially Disadvantaged Farmers (African American, Hispanic, Native American, Asian, women, LGBTQ+ farmers) receive priority for most programs including CSP, EQIP, farm loans. Specific programs targeting minorities: USDA Minority/Socially Disadvantaged Farmer direct grants, Women Farmer Programs (some states), Beginning Farmer Programs prioritize underrepresented groups. Some states and nonprofits offer dedicated grants for minority farmers—check your state's Department of Agriculture. Application process identical to other farmers—check "socially disadvantaged" box on applications to ensure consideration for priority funding. Additional resources: Heirs Property Program (USDA), Native American agricultural programs, Women in Agriculture office at USDA.

Can I get grants for sustainable or organic farming?

Yes. Multiple federal programs support organic/sustainable farming: Organic Certification Cost-Share (covers up to $750/year for 3 years toward certification), CSP and EQIP offer higher payment rates for organic and sustainable operations, Crop Insurance subsidies available for organic crops, Organic transition grants in some states. Eligible sustainable practices: cover crops ($50-$120/acre), no-till farming ($10-$20/acre), rotational grazing, integrated pest management, crop diversity. Organic operations receive priority and higher cost-share percentages (up to 90% in some EQIP cases). Begin with NRCS conservationist to develop sustainability/organic plan, then apply for matching programs. Timeline: 2-4 weeks for planning + 2-6 months for program enrollment.

How to Apply for Federal Farmer Grants

Identify Your Needs: Determine what funding you need: land acquisition (FSA land loans), operating expenses (FSA operating loans), conservation (CSP/EQIP), equipment (FSA equipment loans), market development (AMS grants), or beginning farmer support. Research which programs match your farm type, size, and goals.
Find Your Local USDA Office: Visit USDA Service Locator to locate FSA (Farm Service Agency) and NRCS (Natural Resources Conservation Service) county offices. Services are free. Schedule appointment or visit during office hours. Staff review programs, confirm eligibility, provide application materials, explain timelines.
Prepare Required Documents: Gather: farm financial statements, tax returns (3 years), farm records, proof of farm ownership/lease, farm map showing property boundaries, credit report authorization (for loans), farm operation details (crops/livestock, acreage, annual income). Organized documentation significantly speeds application process.
Develop Farm/Conservation Plan (If Applicable): For conservation programs (CSP/EQIP), work with NRCS conservationist to develop farm conservation plan detailing current practices and proposed conservation improvements. Field visit by NRCS staff (1-2 hours) typical. Plan development 1-4 weeks. Stronger plans more competitive.
Complete & Submit Application: FSA Loans: Complete loan application at county office with all documentation. Conservation Programs: Submit through NRCS, deadlines vary by state (typically Feb-April for major programs). Marketing/Specialty Grants: Submit through Grants.gov or specific agency websites with published deadlines. Include all requested attachments.
Follow Up & Approval: Track application status through USDA office. Respond promptly to requests for additional information. Typical timeline: 2-6 months from submission to approval decision. Once approved, receive Notice of Award/loan approval documents. Sign documents and begin program participation or receive funding. Annual compliance reporting required.

Federal Farmer Grant Resources

Farm Service Agency (FSA)

Farm ownership, operating, and equipment loans for all farm types and sizes.

Visit FSA.USDA.gov →

NRCS Conservation Programs

CSP, EQIP, soil health, and conservation assistance for all farmers.

Visit NRCS.USDA.gov →

Beginning Farmer Support

Loans, down payment assistance, and resources for new farm operators.

Beginning Farmers →

Agricultural Marketing Service

Grants for market development, value-added agriculture, and specialty crops.

AMS Grants →

USDA Rural Development

Infrastructure, water systems, broadband, and rural community development grants.

Visit RD.USDA.gov →

Grants.gov

Searchable federal grant database including all USDA farmer opportunities.

Visit Grants.gov →

Available Federal Farmer Grants (43)

Showing 1-20 of 43 grants

Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program Foundational and Applied Science Program

National Institute of Food and Agriculture

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F24AS00298 Cooperative Agriculture

Fish and Wildlife Service

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Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program Education and Workforce Development

National Institute of Food and Agriculture

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Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Strengthening Agricultural Systems

National Institute of Food and Agriculture

fixed

SOI - Rural Transportation Match and Gap Funding Assistance Program

Denali Commission

fixed

Farmworkers Advancement Program (FAP) Grant for Program Year 2025-26 (PY 25-26)

Employment Development Department

The goal of this grant is to fund projects that focus on farmworker needs at a regional level by offering essential skills and upskilling training for farmworkers to either advance in the agricultural industry and/or prepare for advancement outside of the agricultural sector. This grant program is intended to address multiple existing and emerging gaps in the current workforce system for farmworkers. FAP PY 25-26 programs will position farmworkers to obtain access to good-quality jobs including jobs that pay family-sustaining wages, offer benefits, have predictable hours, opportunities for career advancement, and promote worker voice. Projects will also provide wrap-around support and resources to build skills to prevent job loss and lay the foundation for upward mobility. Funded...

Agriculture; Disadvantaged Communities; Employment unknown

Vertebrate Pest Control Research Program

CA Department of Food and Agriculture

Proposals may focus on research and/or education projects to enhance control measures of vertebrate pests that pose a significant threat to the welfare of state’s agricultural economy, infrastructure, environment, and the public. CDFA does not support proprietary product development projects. Proposals that originate from outside of California are considered if the proposal includes relevance to vertebrate pest concerns within California. Proposals may focus on research and/or education projects to enhance control measures of vertebrate pests that pose a significant threat to the welfare of state’s agricultural economy, infrastructure, environment, and the public. CDFA does not support proprietary product development projects. Proposals that originate from outside of California are...

Agriculture; Environment & Water; Health & Human Services; Science unknown

Farm and Ranch Solid Waste Clean Up and Abatement Grant Program FR90

Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery

The Farm & Ranch Solid Waste Clean Up & Abatement Grant program provides funding for cleaning up and preventing illegal dumping on agricultural properties (CCR, Section 17991(d)). Each fiscal year has four application cycles, with the fourth serving as the pilot cycle. Cycle 90 (FR90) is the fourth and the pilot cycle. CalRecycle administers the program per Section 48100 of the Public Resources Code. The project sites eligible for the grant must be located on 'farm and ranch' property, encompassing both private and public land, where the owner is not held responsible for the illegal disposal. The definition of 'farm and ranch' property can be found in the Eligible Geographies section below. Grantees are given approximately two years to complete the project(s). The sites should be fully...

Agriculture; Disadvantaged Communities; Environment & Water unknown

Request for Application (RFA) 25-10031: Local Training and Education Program for the Prevention of Domestic Violence (DV)

Department of Public Health

The purpose of this RFA is to increase public awareness of Domestic Violence (DV), specifically Interpersonal Violence (IV), and support community-led efforts to adopt and implement primary prevention strategies that improve the scope and quality of services provided to victims of IV. The California Department of Public Health, Injury and Violence Prevention Branch (CDPH/IVPB) anticipates releasing Request for Application (RFA): 25-10031, Local Training and Education Program for the Prevention of DV. CDPH/IVPB anticipates awarding up to one (1) local project with (3) three or more years of demonstrated experience and capabilities implementing local community organizing and/or public health policy, system, and environmental (PSE) change work. Funding will be available from State of...

Disadvantaged Communities; Health & Human Services unknown

2025-26 Digital Divide Grant Program Round 3

Public Utilities Commission

The Digital Divide Grant Program will award one grant of $100,000 for rural and urban public schools and two grants of up to $50,000 each for non-profit Community Based Organizations (CBO). The grants will fund digital projects that serve beneficiary public schools/districts and non-profit Community Organizations. Projects may address gaps in broadband networks, affordability, access to personal devices and digital skills training. The Digital Divide Grant Program (DDGP) will provide three grants for a total of $200,000. The DDGP is funded by fees collected from leases of state-owned property to wireless telecommunications service providers, pursuant to Government Code Section 14666.8. Eligible projects will serve a beneficiary public school or district located in an urban or rural...

Disadvantaged Communities; Education; Housing unknown

Beet Curly Top Virus Control Program Grants

CA Department of Food and Agriculture

The Program may consider funding projects that develop new management methods for treating the beet leafhopper (BLH), or development of enhancements to other program areas that will mitigate the virus. The funding will be based on the researcher using a no pesticide alternative or Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) approved pesticides registered for use in CA on BLH and/or on rangeland/hillside. Project Scope: The Beet Curly Top Virus Control Program (BCTVCP) may consider funding projects that develop new management methods for treating the beet leafhopper (BLH), the primary vector of the beet curly top virus or development of enhancements to other program areas that will mitigate the virus. Priorities: The funding will be based on the researcher using a no pesticide alternative...

Agriculture; Science unknown