Farm Credit AgEnhancement Grants are provided by Farm Credit East and CoBank to support initiatives aimed at fostering the growth of agriculture, forest production, and commercial fishing across the six New England states, New York, and New Jersey. Since the program’s inception in 1996, more than $2 million in grants have been awarded to organizations promoting both traditional and innovative approaches in agricultural production and marketing. The grants range from $500 to $10,000 and are designed to enhance economic viability and awareness of these industries in the Northeast.

Eligible applicants must propose projects, programs, activities, or events that contribute to the long-term success of the agriculture, forest products, or commercial fishing industries in the region. Examples of previously funded initiatives include leadership development programs such as Future Farmers of America and 4-H, economic enhancement projects like the New York Farmers Market Federation, and programs aimed at promoting Northeast agricultural products. Additionally, grants have supported efforts to educate the public about agriculture through programs such as Agriculture in the Classroom and the Witter Museum at the New York State Fair. Economic analyses fostering agricultural development, such as studies on dairy production costs, have also received funding.

Certain types of proposals are ineligible, including those supporting local school projects, non-agricultural charities, political activities, scholarships, operating funds, website administration, capital or building projects, or funding for individual farm operations. Similarly, grants do not support annual meetings, indirect costs for sponsored projects, or general business conferences.

The program encourages diversity and the inclusion of underrepresented communities in agriculture. While county-level projects are generally ineligible, exceptions may be made for proposals that facilitate minority involvement in agriculture-related businesses. Additionally, any Farm Credit East or CoBank employees or directors submitting applications must disclose their affiliation to maintain transparency and eligibility.

Grant applications are reviewed three times per year, with deadlines on April 1, August 1, and December 1. Applications received after a deadline will be considered in the next review cycle. Funding decisions are typically communicated within 30 days of the application deadline. The grant application process requires a completed application form and a two-page letter outlining the project’s purpose, funding amount requested, other sponsoring organizations, project dates, and budget details. Supporting documentation of up to three additional pages may be included.

For questions, applicants may contact Kyle Bell at 860-741-4380 or via email at AgEnhancement@FarmCreditEast.com.