Finding funding for your farm can take time and research. DCLFN has compiled this collection of grants, loans, cost-share programs, and other financial resources available to North Carolina farmers and agricultural producers. Opportunities may support farm operations, conservation, equipment, infrastructure, value-added products, energy improvements, marketing, and more.
Eligibility, funding amounts, application requirements, and deadlines vary by program. Please visit the organization's website for the most current information and to determine whether a program is a good fit for your farm.
USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) – North Carolina
FSA provides financing and other assistance to agricultural producers. Their Microloan program is particularly useful for small-scale, beginning, and niche producers, with funding available for eligible operating expenses, equipment, livestock, supplies, marketing, and other farm needs.
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NC Agricultural Finance Authority (NCAFA)
NCAFA provides financing programs for North Carolina farmers and agricultural businesses, including programs designed for family-sized farming operations. Funding may support farmland purchases, farm improvements, buildings, water systems, irrigation, and other eligible agricultural needs.
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NC AgVentures Farm Grant
NC AgVentures provides grants to North Carolina family farms for projects designed to increase farm profitability. Projects can support farm improvements, diversification, equipment, value-added products, and other projects that can help increase farm income.
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NC State Extension – Farm Funding Resources
NC State Extension provides information and resources to help farmers explore different types of funding, including grants, loans, and other financing options. Their resources can also point farmers toward programs specifically intended for family farms and agricultural producers.
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USDA Value-Added Producer Grants (VAPG)
VAPG can help eligible agricultural producers develop value-added products and markets, including activities related to processing, packaging, marketing, and developing new markets for farm products.
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USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP)
REAP provides funding opportunities for eligible agricultural producers and rural small businesses working on renewable energy systems and energy-efficiency improvements.
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NCDA&CS Grant Opportunities
The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services maintains information about agriculture-related grant programs in North Carolina. Eligibility varies by program, so farmers should review the requirements for each opportunity.
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Other Funding Opportunities
Recent Farm Funding Opportunities
Stay up to date on recent grants, loans, cost-share programs, and other funding opportunities available to North Carolina farmers and agricultural producers. New opportunities will be added as they become available.