By Scout Nelson
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for the Beginning Farmer Equipment and Infrastructure Grant. This program supports new farmers by helping them purchase essential equipment and invest in on-farm infrastructure needed to strengthen their farm businesses.
The grant program was established by the Minnesota Legislature to reduce early challenges faced by beginning farmers. It focuses on improving access to tools and systems that support crop production, livestock care, and farm product storage.
Eligible projects include agriculture-specific equipment used to grow crops, raise livestock, and store harvested products. Infrastructure investments such as water access systems, irrigation, fencing, electricity, walk-in coolers, livestock handling systems, grain storage, and production-related buildings like barns, livestock facilities, and greenhouses are also eligible.
To qualify as a beginning farmer, applicants must be within their first 10 years of farming. Priority is given to farmers with less than $100,000 in recent farm sales and limited access to land, as defined in state law. This approach ensures the program supports those who face the greatest barriers when starting a farm operation.
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture may award up to $700,000 in total funding through a competitive review process. Individual applicants may request between $1,000 and $10,000. A 25% match is required for grant requests over $2,000.
The program operates as a reimbursement grant, meaning participants must pay project costs upfront and submit proof of eligible expenses after the grant contract is fully executed.
“This remains one of the most in-demand grant programs in the MDA’s portfolio,” said MDA Assistant Commissioner Patrice Bailey. “The strong interest we saw last year highlights how important access to affordable equipment and infrastructure is for beginning farmers. Even small grants can make a meaningful difference as new farmers work to overcome early barriers and establish their operations.”
Applicants can learn more about eligibility and program details during an online information session on Thursday, Feb. 19 at 11 a.m. via Zoom https://zoom.us/meeting/register/-0rglngnQbGgES-LjTNfHQ#/registration . Full grant details and application access are available at https://www.mda.state.mn.us/beginning-farmer-grant
Applications must be submitted by 4 p.m. on Thursday, March 26.
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Categories: Minnesota, Business, Crops, Government & Policy, Livestock