Grants Available for Small Farms
Throughout the year there are state, federal, nonprofit and foundation funded grants for which small to medium scale farms might want to apply. These grants can assist with a wide range of interests including disaster relief, equipment replacement or upgrades, business building, and climate smart agriculture. UC ANR Small Farm Network staff are available to assist farmers to understand grant program requirements, gather application paperwork, and/or connect to other topic specific technical assistance providers.
While grants can be helpful for farms, it is typically required that farmers declare any grants received on your business tax forms. Please consult with your tax professional to understand the implications this may have for your taxes.
Funding Opportunities
Application and technical assistance for the following funds is offered through our partner organizations or by contacting our Small Farms Program team.
Feel free to reach out to Claire Tuohey-Mote (hablo español) via phone 805-781-5949 or email: ctuoheymote@ucanr.edu if you have any questions.
- Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) - USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
- Improved water and air quality;
- Conserved ground and surface water;
- Increased soil health ;
- Reduced soil erosion and sedimentation;
- Improved or created wildlife habitat; and
- Mitigation against drought and increasing weather volatility.
- Conservation Programs - USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
- State Water Efficiency & Enhancement Program (SWEEP)
- Healthy Soils Program (HSP) - California Department of Food & Agriculture
- Organic Transition - CCOF
- Hardship Assistance - CCOF
- California Underserved and Small Producer Program (CUSP)
- Compost Connector program
- Beginning Farmer Grant
- Agricultural Energy Savings Action Plan
- Agricultural Energy Rebate Program
- Disaster Relief Programs - USDA Farm Service Agency
- Food Safety Certification for Specialty Crops - USDA Farm Service Agency
- Cost share for expenses due to food safety inspections, audits, training, etc.