USDA announces support for veterans and socially disadvantaged farmers

by | Mar 27, 2018 | 5 Ag Stories, News

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Monday announced up to $8.4 million in available funding for training and technical assistance for socially disadvantaged and veteran farmers and ranchers.

The funding, provided through USDA?s Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement, was originally authorized by the Food, Agriculture, Conservation and Trade (FACT) Act of 1990.

The Department says the grants “seek to enhance the equitable participation” of socially disadvantaged and veteran farmers and ranchers in USDA resources and programs, such as Farm Service Agency loans or grants through the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program.

Projects may focus on conferences, training sessions, educational materials or new programs to help farmers and ranchers thrive and succeed. Eligible applicants include community-based organizations, networks or coalitions of community-based organizations, institutions of higher education and others.