Minnesota offers grants to help new farmers start operations

By Scout Nelson

Senator Rob Kupec (DFL-Moorhead) is encouraging new farmers in Minnesota to apply for the Beginning Farmer Equipment and Infrastructure Grant Program. This program offers up to $20,000 in reimbursement to help those entering the agriculture industry invest in equipment and infrastructure needed for their farms.

“Agriculture drives Minnesota’s economy, but starting a farm can be costly,” said Senator Kupec, who serves as Vice-Chair of the Senate Agriculture, Broadband, and Rural Development Committee. “This grant is a great way for new farmers to offset some of those large startup costs and upgrades. I encourage anyone interested in farming to apply.”

The program supports new farmers in Minnesota by providing funding for essential farm infrastructure such as water access, irrigation, fencing, electricity, and production-related structures like livestock buildings and greenhouses.

Applicants can request funds at two levels: up to $5,000 for a mini-grant or up to $20,000 for a full grant, with a minimum request of $1,000.

The grant program aims to give new farmers the resources they need to make crucial investments in their operations, ensuring their long-term success in Minnesota’s agricultural sector.

Applications for the program opened on September 24 and will remain open until November 21. Interested farmers can apply online and should act quickly to take advantage of this opportunity to receive financial support for their new farming ventures.

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