New Producer Grants

This grant opportunity celebrates the ingenuity and passion of new producers and can help their dreams come to fruition. This program was developed for those who have a vision for their operation but lack the funds to put their plans into action. 

Available funds

Successful applicants will receive a one-time $15,000 grant to support their operation's growth.

Timeline

The application window for the 2024 New Producer Grant cycle closed on May 31.

For questions and inquiries please contact AgVision@AgWestFC.com

Eligibility

Eligible applicants need to meet the following requirements:

• Be a full or part-time agriculturalist who has two years or less of operational experience or has plans to start their operation within two years of the grant application date.
• Have an operation located within AgWest Farm Credit’s territory.
• Not be a current AgWest lending customer.
• Must be 18 years of age.
• Be a U.S. citizen or a foreign national lawfully admitted for permanent residency or pursuant to certain visas.

Before you apply

1. Review the Strategic Business Planning guide.
2. View three recorded webinars covering Financial Statement Basics posted in the Preparing Financials section of AgWestfc.com. 
   • Income Statement
   • Cash Flow Budget
   • Balance Sheet Basics
3. Prepare or update your business plan and cash flow budget. Use templates, if needed. 
   • Business Plan (template) 
   • Cash Flow Budget (Excel template) 
4. Prepare an essay that addresses the following (template): 
   • What life experiences have led you to choose a career in agriculture and what have you done to support your plans in gaining expertise in your industry?
   • How will this grant help you achieve your operational goals indicated in the business plan? 
   • How will your operation benefit your community or help others?

Award process

For persons of limited English proficiency that need additional assistance, please email AgVision@AgWestFC.com.