The USDA will be issuing $16.2 million in grants to provide training, outreach and technical assistance to underserved and veteran farmers and ranchers, the department announced on Oct. 7.
Funding will be available through the USDA Outreach and Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers Program (2501 Program).
“All farmers and ranchers deserve equal access to USDA programs and services,” said Mike Beatty, director of the USDA Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement.
“2501 Grants go a long way in fulfilling our mission to reach historically underserved communities and ensure their equitable participation in our programs.”
The program was established in the 1990 Farm Bill to help socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers who have historically experienced limited access to USDA programs and assistance.
The program was extended to veterans in the 2014 Farm Bill. Grants are awarded to higher education institutions and nonprofit organizations to host projects such as conferences, workshops and demonstrations.
Since 2010, the 2501 Program has awarded 484 grants totaling $119.5 million.
