The USDA has announced nearly $10M in new funding to support minority, tribal and veteran agricultural producers, through its 2501 program.
The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition reports:
“For decades, the 2501 Program has served as the only farm bill program dedicated to addressing the needs of African-American, American-Indian, Asian-American, and Latino family farmers and ranchers. The program provides critical resources, outreach, and technical assistance to reduce the trend among these historically under-served producers.”
Nearly 40% of the grants were awarded to projects directly targeting veterans interested in farming; they are part of the USDA’s increased commitment to expanding services to veterans in agriculture. 20% of the funded projects will support work with tribal and native communities.