Farmers are facing higher input costs, supply chain shifts, and increased pressure to meet environmental and production demands. At the same time, federal agencies are offering grants directly to production-focused agricultural businesses and farming organizations. While federal grants are available to support farmers, most producers never apply. Not because the money isn’t there, but because the system to get it is hard to navigate.

Between confusing resources, unclear application steps, and constant policy changes, most working farmers don’t know where to start, or whether they’re even eligible. This session walks you through the steps to access real, usable dollars for your farm or agricultural organization. Farmers need to be able to find active grants, register on the right platforms, understand what grant reviewers want, and submit a complete, competitive proposal, without wasting time chasing the wrong opportunities.

You’ll also hear directly from Michelle Miller (@thefarmbabe) on the everyday challenges farmers face with these systems, and from Denise B. Lawrence, a subject matter expert in federal grants, on how to overcome them and actually win funding.

No matter where you are in your journey, this session gives you the tools to make federal grants a real part of your revenue strategy.

Recommended attending personnel:

This briefing is recommended for producers, farm owners, agricultural cooperatives, rural business operators, ag organizations, grant-seeking beginning farmers, and anyone managing or advising agricultural operations who wants to access federal funding opportunities. If you’ve ever tried to apply for a federal grant and felt stuck, this session is for you.

Important: This briefing uses a Zoom-based communication connection via your network. This briefing will be accessible via phone if you are unable to connect online and recorded versions will be distributed with closed-caption for the hearing impaired. Instructions for login will be provided upon registration.

Welcome and Introductions

Reviewing the Current Situation

• The State of Agriculture
• Uncertainty, Shifts, and Pressure
• Impact on Farmers

Farming Grants

• Federal Grant Programs
• Types of Grants Available

Reviewing Eligibility

• Farm Type
• Farm Size
• Project Focus

How to Apply

• Documents and Resources
• Becoming Organized
• Communication Pitfalls

Impact of Changing Policy

• Shifting Priorities
• Adjusting Strategy

Q&A

Final Remarks