By Blake Jackson
Missouri is cultivating fresh opportunities for urban farmers! A brand-new tax credit program aims to revitalize urban agriculture across the state, offering financial support to both budding and established growers in select areas like St. Louis, Rolla, and Hannibal.
While not solely focused on tackling food insecurity, Jacob Stoehr from the Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority acknowledges the program's potential to improve access to local produce. "Many lack convenient access to fresh, local fruits and vegetables, and this initiative is a positive step towards addressing that," he says.
Executive Director Jill Wood emphasizes the program's potential to empower those passionate about feeding their communities. "Both new and existing growers focused on supplying fresh food have access to these credits," she clarifies.
The program offers a 50% tax credit on up to $10,000 spent on setting up or enhancing an urban farm operation, with a statewide pool of $200,000 earmarked for the initiative. This coincides with a surging interest in urban farming across Missouri.
"We're seeing a growing number of people seeking guidance on starting or expanding their urban farms," says Stoehr. "It seems many are ready to transition from personal gardens to commercially viable operations."
These tax credits are just one tool in the toolbox for urban farmers seeking financial support. Stoehr points to loan programs offered by the Missouri Department of Agriculture and upcoming resources from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which plans to strengthen its presence in St. Louis and Kansas City.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-joshua-resnick
Categories: Missouri, Business