How to Get a Farm Grant

Grant money is readily available for many "for profit" and "non-profit" projects. Finding out where to get grant funds, going thorough the application process and being approved can be a challenge. Knowing how to fill out applications, where to submit them or finding professional grant writing help is a great way to begin. Read on to learn how to get a farm grant.

Instructions

1. Decide what your grant money will be used for. Some areas for farming grants include education, research, development of new products and enhanced farming processes.

2. Determine how your project or program will be funded after grant money is no longer available. Grants come in certain amounts and funding organizations want to invest their money in programs that will continue.

3. Research what types of grants are being offered in each calendar year from organizations like SARE, Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education. These organizations specialize in offering grants to advance a variety of farming research and development.

4. Check the organization's website to see what types of projects they are funding.

5. Write a grant proposal based on the types of projects they are looking for. Many people write grant proposals and submit them to organizations and are turned down because the proposal doesn't meet that organization's criteria.

6. Use clear and simple language in your proposal. Include the history of the farm or project, the need for the project, how the project will enhance farming and the surrounding community and how the project will continue to be funded once grant monies are no longer available.

7. Submit your proposal to the funding organization in a timely way, paying attention to all deadlines and requests for documentation.

Tips & Warnings

• Grant writing is a highly specialized field. Hiring a professional grant writer is the best way to ensure your project will get noticed and be considered for grant funds.

• When looking for a grant writer, be sure to find someone who will help your farm through the entire process, starting with a strategic plan.