Connecticut Department of Agriculture announces Farm Transition Grant 2025

The Farm Transition Grant (FTG) is a competitive matching grant program designed to support Connecticut farmers and agricultural cooperatives in advancing their operations. Administered by the Connecticut Department of Agriculture, the program funds projects aimed at diversification, transitioning to value-added production, and market development for locally grown products. The grant requires measurable outcomes that demonstrate significant progress beyond the applicant’s current status. For the 2025 grant cycle, applications are open from November 1, 2024, to January 10, 2025, at 4:00 PM, with awards announced by February 21, 2025. Projects are expected to begin in March or April 2025, depending on the size of the award. The FTG offers four funding categories tailored to meet different agricultural needs. The New Farmer Micro Grant provides up to $5,000 for individuals with 1–3 years of production history, requiring a 25% cash match. The Infrastructure Investment Grant allocates up to $25,000 for farmers with at least three years of production history to expand or diversify operations, with a 50% match required. The Research and Development Grant funds up to $25,000 for exploring new products, services, or markets, requiring a 40% match. Finally, the Innovation and Diversification Grant offers up to $49,999 for implementing new products or services that expand business operations, with a 25% match requirement. Each applicant may submit only one project per grant cycle. Eligible applicants must be for-profit farm businesses in Connecticut. Nonprofit organizations are excluded but may apply to other programs offered by the Department of Agriculture. Applications must include a comprehensive description of the project, demonstrate alignment with grant goals, and comply with the specified match requirements. Certain costs, such as land acquisition, routine business expenses, and previously incurred expenses, are ineligible for funding or as matches. To assist applicants, the Department of Agriculture will host a Farm Transition Grant Overview Webinar and virtual office hours on December 12, 2024, and January 6, 2025, providing opportunities for applicants to ask questions and refine their submissions. Completed applications must be submitted electronically through the grant’s online platform, accompanied by required documentation, such as budget details, quotes, and landlord consent forms if the project is on leased land. The Farm Transition Grant prioritizes projects that promote sustainability, innovation, and market expansion, with a special focus on supporting historically underserved farmers and veterans. For additional information, applicants can contact Alison Grabarz at Alison.Grabarz@ct.gov or visit the program’s website. This grant provides a valuable opportunity for Connecticut farmers to advance their operations and contribute to the state’s agricultural growth.