USDA Allocating Over $22 Million Towards Underserved Farmers and Ranchers

The Outreach and Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers, also known as the 2501 Program, has recently been released with the goal of enhancing equal access and opportunities for the underserved by encouraging participation in USDA programs related to agriculture and forestry. Under this initiative, the USDA, in partnership with the OPPE, is expected to reward applicants with funding geared towards aiding underserved populations with the ownership and operation of farms and ranches. Funding will also be allocated to projects that aid in the development of underserved youth’s interest in agriculture through education and training.

There is a maximum amount of $750,000 in requested federal funding available to applicants over a 3-year period, with an annual cap of $250,000. No cost share is required. The deadline for this application is July 5th, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. EDT. Proposals must be submitted through Grants.gov.

Eligible Applicants

• Institutions of higher education;
• Nonprofit organizations; or
• Nongovernmental community-based organizations or associations providing agricultural education or agriculturally related services to underserved or veteran farmers and ranchers.

Additionally, eligibility requirements include a minimum of three years documented experience in working with the target population in a similar capacity. Priority will be given to nongovernmental and community-based organizations who have a history of working specifically with underserved and military veteran farmers and ranchers.

Unallowable Use Of Funds

• The planning, repair, rehabilitation, acquisition, or construction buildings or facilities;
• Paying hourly wages (i.e., in a jobs creation program for individual farmers or ranchers);
• Small agricultural loans for individual farmers or ranchers or used to incentivize individuals to attend events, workshops, or training;
• The purchase of farming supplies for individual farmers or ranchers or to enhance individual farmers’ or ranchers’ farms or production capabilities;
• Rewarding individual farmers or ranchers for outstanding effort or achievement in training;
• Paying scholarships for individual farmers or ranchers to attend college courses, certificate courses, or other “for fee” based courses;
• Start-up or financing costs for businesses or for an organization’s capacity building; or Large equipment purchases such as vehicles, semi-tractors, or refrigeration systems.

If you are ready to pursue grants but need help in the process, USFCR’s Grant Writing Team can help your organization meet its unique program needs. 

Mari Crocitto & Maria Mandés