If you are a farmer, producer, or agricultural organization looking for funding, there are several agriculture grants this year that can help you launch new projects, expand operations, and improve sustainability. From research funding to marketing support, federal and state programs offer significant financial resources to strengthen local food systems, boost profitability, and support rural development.
Federal Grants: Big Opportunities for Innovation
One of the largest federal funding sources in 2026 is the USDA Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI). This program commits hundreds of millions of dollars to research that enhances agricultural productivity, sustainability, and resilience. Farmers, researchers, and land-grant universities can apply for funding in areas like crop health, soil management, and climate adaptation. You can learn more and apply through the USDA’s funding portal. (Source: USDA NIFA)
Another major opportunity in agriculture grants this year is the Farm to School Grant Program. This program offers up to $18 million in competitive grants to help connect local farms with schools and expand farm-to-institution purchasing, school gardens, and agricultural education. Awards typically range from $100,000 to $500,000. More details are available on the USDA Food and Nutrition Service website. (Source: USDA Food and Nutrition Service)
The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) provides states with funding to support specialty crops such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and horticulture. State departments of agriculture then distribute funds to growers and organizations for projects that improve food safety, marketing, and research. To find your state’s program details, visit your state agriculture department’s website. (Source: Sustainable Agriculture Network)
Grants for Value-Added and Marketing Projects
The Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG) program helps producers add value to their raw commodities through processing and direct marketing. This program supports business planning and working capital for value-added enterprises like jams, cheeses, or packaged grains. Farmers can review eligibility and application materials through the USDA Rural Development site. (Source: USDA Rural Development)
Additional USDA grant opportunities include the Organic Market Development Grants, Farmers Market & Local Food Promotion Program, and Meat and Poultry Inspection Readiness Grants, all designed to strengthen local food infrastructure and small business operations. (Source: USDA Agricultural Marketing Service)
Grants for Beginning Farmers and Underserved Communities
Beginners and historically underserved farmers can access funding through the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program (BFRDP). This program funds training, mentoring, and technical assistance that help new producers succeed. (Source: USDA NIFA)
Other organizations, such as the Brighter Future Fund, offer grants specifically for underserved farmers and ranchers to improve long-term viability and access regenerative practices. (Source: American Farmland Trust)
State and Local Grant Opportunities
Many states also offer specialty crop, food safety, and local agriculture grants. For example, Illinois and West Virginia administer programs that help farms expand processing capacity, improve food safety compliance, and strengthen farm-to-table networks. (Source: Illinois Department of Agriculture; West Virginia Department of Agriculture)
How to Maximize These Opportunities
To make the most of agriculture grants this year, start by identifying which programs align with your farm’s goals. Visit infrastructure and research grant portals like Grants.gov for official applications and deadlines. Partnering with universities or nonprofits can also increase competitiveness for larger research awards.
