Grants and Loans for BIPOC Farmers
Rodale Institute, in partnership with Organic Farmers Association, offers a micro-grant program specifically targeted to support small-scale BIPOC farmers, whether organic, transitioning to organic, or an aspiring organic farmer.
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The Brighter Future Fund of American Farmland Trust focuses on providing resources to beginning, women and veteran farmers, as well as those historically resilient farmers identifying as socially disadvantaged in alignment with the USDA. The grant cycle opens for a short period each year, but you can sign up for alerts on their website.
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The National Young Farmers Coalition partners with Chipotle each year to offer $5000 mini grants to beginning farmers. According to their website, they “strongly encourage farmers of color, Indigenous farmers, and farmers who are facing significant structural barriers to accessing other funding opportunities and success in agriculture to apply.” You can also view previous grantees at the site.
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This video from the National Young Farmers Coalition and the Rural Advancement Foundation International-USA (RAFI-USA) records a panel of BIPOC farmers who shared their personal experiences navigating USDA loan processes and best practices and advice.
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Also see our general Grant Resources page here
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These two Oregon-based lenders, MESO and OAME, support minority and historically excluded entrepreneurs with business support services and access to lending.
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