USDA Announces $45 Million Funding Opportunity to Support Underserved and Veteran Farmers, Ranchers, and Foresters

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced approximately $45 million available to organizations that help underserved and veteran farmers, ranchers, and foresters own and operate successful farms. Funding is made through USDA’s Outreach and Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers Program, also known as the 2501 Program. This program is administered by the USDA Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE).

“By supporting organizations that work with veterans and underserved groups, 2501 Program funding can help these individuals access and participate in USDA programs and services,” said OPPE Director Lisa Ramirez. “This program demonstrates USDA’s commitment to advance equity and lower barriers to USDA resources.”

For more than 30 years, and in partnership with organizations nationwide, the 2501 Program has helped reach underserved farmers and ranchers who have experienced barriers to service due to racial or ethnic prejudice. The 2014 Farm Bill expanded the program to include assistance to veteran farmers and ranchers. The 2018 Farm Bill increased mandatory funding for the program through fiscal year 2023 with a permanent funding level of $25 million for each year thereafter. With 2501 Program funding, organizations conduct education, training, farming demonstrations, and conferences on farming and agribusiness to increase access to USDA’s programs and services.

Since 2010, the 2501 Program has awarded 615 grants totaling more than $194 million. Among recent FY 2022 grantees, the University of Alaska Fairbanks received a 2501 grant to help tribal communities start new gardens, farms, ranches or other endeavors that promote community food security, resiliency, and economic diversity while upholding traditional knowledge and traditional ways of securing food. Additionally, the Pennsylvania Friends of Agriculture Foundation received a 2501 grant to assist veteran farmers through programs that foster connections among beginning farmer veterans and service providers to create a supportive network that will enable farms to thrive.

Source: usda.gov

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