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2501 Grant through Central State University

Description and How to Apply

The USDA 2501 Program is a crucial initiative designed to empower BIPOC and veteran farmers with the tools, resources, and training needed to build successful farming operations. Administered through Central State University, the program focuses on ensuring equitable access to USDA programs and services for historically underserved communities.

Eligibility Criteria:

2501 extends resources to veteran farmers looking to strengthen their agricultural enterprises.

Key Benefits:

Comprehensive training sessions on sustainable farming practices.

Access to vital resources and support to enhance farming capacity

Opportunities to connect with USDA programs and services.

Veterans are eligible to register and attend approved events and receive a stipend from Central State University that covers travel, lodging, and meals during a covered event.

How to Apply:

To learn more about the USDA 2501 Program or to apply, please contact Shelby Hivnor at [email protected]

Central State University is committed to supporting the success and sustainability of underserved farmers across the region.

Business Builder Subaward (BBS) Program – Applications Open March 2025

The Appalachia Regional Food Business Center provides technical assistance and coordination for food and farm businesses across a seven-state region, including all of Ohio. One of the most impactful resources available is the Business Builder Subaward (BBS) program, offering up to $100,000 in no-match funding to support small and mid-sized food and farm businesses.

Funding Focus Areas:

Post-harvest & value-added activities

Processing, aggregation, & distribution businesses

Alternative retail models (co-operative markets, food consignment shops)

Staff time & business planning

Software implementation & specialized equipment (food safety, processing, packaging)

Supply chain coordination & innovation

Product development & marketing

The second round of funding will open in March 2025, with a total of five rounds planned. These grants are designed to help strengthen local food systems and expand opportunities for food and farm businesses.

For more details and to apply, visit:

🔗 Click Here

Market Maker

Whether you are a producer looking to reach new markets, a buyer wanting to connect with local or specialty suppliers, or a consumer looking for goods and services in your area, MarketMaker is a must-have resource.

MarketMaker is the largest and most in-depth database of its kind featuring a diverse community of food-related businesses: buyers, farmers/ranchers, fisheries, farmers markets, processors/packers, wineries, restaurants and more. MarketMaker provides simple yet powerful search tools to connect with others across the production and distribution chain.

Producers register their businesses in MarketMaker because food buyers of all types access our database to find products and services to meet their specific needs. Distributors, consumers, food banks, institutions, restaurants, retailers, and value-added producers and processors all use MarketMaker to find the products they need. Through MarketMaker, producers can create a detailed business profile, efficiently communicate their products or services, and effectively reach a larger number of buyers in order to form profitable business relationships.

The advantage of a partnership for the FVC and the Homegrown By Heroes label with MarketMaker is that farmer veterans can more easily connect with buyers in a virtual marketplace.

Click Here To Learn More

Webinar Library

Previously Recorded Webinars

Access On-Demand Webinars for Veteran Farmers

Expand your knowledge and skills with our library of previously recorded webinars. Covering topics like sustainable farming, business development, and grant opportunities, these webinars are designed to support veterans at every stage of their agricultural journey. Download them to watch anytime and gain valuable insights to help grow your farming career. Start learning today! Explore our on-demand webinar library and download the resources you need to succeed in agriculture.

Fill out the form below to connect with us and access the resources that will help you thrive in agriculture!