By Scout Nelson
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is pleased to announce the Fiscal Year 2025 Urban Agriculture Grant recipients. These competitive grants promote youth agricultural education and agriculture-connected community development. The program serves urban areas — cities with a population over 5,000 and communities on federally recognized tribal land regardless of population size.
The MDA awarded grant funds to 33 projects, receiving a combined $1,692,957 to strengthen urban agriculture and expand access to locally grown foods in communities across the state. Awardees include nonprofit organizations, schools and school districts, and local government entities.
Funding can be used to purchase equipment, make physical improvements, and support staff time needed to deliver urban agriculture programming. This flexibility helps projects build capacity, teach practical skills, and connect residents with fresh, locally grown foods. See the table below for a description of funded projects.
The Urban Agriculture Grant Program is funded through the Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) Program. Through AGRI the MDA administers grants to farmers, agribusinesses, schools, and more throughout Minnesota to advance the state’s agricultural and renewable energy sectors.
This year’s recipients reflect a wide range of community needs and goals. Projects often focus on hands-on learning in school and community gardens, season extension through basic infrastructure, starter tools and supplies for youth programs, and training that builds leadership and job skills. Many efforts also plan outreach events that encourage residents to try local produce and learn simple ways to prepare healthy meals.
By investing in equipment, spaces, and staffing, the grants help organizations deliver consistent programming during the growing season and throughout the school year. The program’s reach into cities and tribal communities ensures that urban residents have more opportunities to engage with agriculture, understand where food comes from, and access fresh options close to home.
With clear goals and practical uses of funds, the MDA’s Urban Agriculture Grant Program supports lifelong learning, community pride, and a stronger local food system across Minnesota.
Photo Credit:pexels-karolina-grabowska
Categories: Minnesota, Education, Government & Policy