Minnesota Launches New Farm Grants

By Scout Nelson

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is offering two new opportunities to help producers strengthen their operations. Applications are now open for the Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) Protect and Prepare Grants, both designed to support farms facing biosecurity threats and extreme weather challenges. These grants aim to make Minnesota agriculture stronger, safer, and more resilient.

The AGRI Protecting Livestock from Avian Influenza (Protect) Grant helps livestock producers reduce the risk of disease on their farms. This program offers up to $10,000 per operation to support the purchase and installation of approved equipment that improves on-farm biosecurity.

The goal is to prevent the spread of avian influenza and strengthen long-term disease protection. A total of $500,000 is available through a competitive process. Awards will range from $500 to $10,000, and each applicant must provide a 20% cash match. Time and labor contributed by the applicant may reduce the cash match by up to $2,000. Full requirements and application information can be found on the AGRI Protect Grant webpage.

The AGRI Preparing for Extreme Weather (Prepare) Grant supports livestock and specialty crop producers working to protect their operations from events such as drought, hail, heavy rain, flooding, and severe storms. Producers may receive up to $10,000 to purchase and install eligible supplies or equipment that build climate resilience.

This grant also includes a total of $500,000 in funding and awards between $500 and $10,000. Applicants must provide a 50% cash match. Complete eligibility details are available on the AGRI Prepare Grant webpage.

Both grant programs will prioritize applicants who have been farming for ten years or less. All applications must be submitted by 4 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026. The MDA expects to award approximately 50 to 60 grants for each program, depending on the final award amounts. Funds may only be used for eligible expenses incurred after contracts are signed, which is expected in May 2026.

These two grant opportunities are supported through the MDA’s AGRI Program, which provides funding for projects that strengthen Minnesota’s agriculture and renewable energy sectors.

Photo Credit: minnesota-department-of-agriculture