The 2025 Young Farmer Grant (YFG) Program, administered by the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) under the Texas Agricultural Finance Authority (TAFA), aims to support agricultural producers in Texas aged 18 to 45 who are establishing or expanding an agricultural business. This program offers matching grant funds to provide financial assistance and promote agricultural growth. Applications for the current round must be submitted through the TDA-GO online system by November 7, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. Central Time. Awards will range from $5,000 to $20,000 per recipient and will be available on a cost-reimbursement basis.

Eligible applicants must be individual agricultural producers who reside in Texas, have a significant interest in the agricultural operation, and can provide a 1:1 cash match for the requested grant funds. The grant cannot support existing agricultural operations or be awarded to business entities such as corporations or partnerships. Additionally, individuals with a familial or business relationship with TDA executives or TAFA board members are ineligible.

The grant program supports projects that create or expand agricultural operations, with funds eligible for necessary expenses like personnel costs, supplies, contracts, and non-capitalized equipment. However, certain expenses, including capital equipment over $5,000, land acquisition, entertainment, and travel, are not eligible for reimbursement. The grant term will begin in March 2025, with projects to be completed by May 31, 2026.

Applications will be evaluated based on the project's quality, financial need, potential impact on agricultural productivity, and contribution to the local community. The review process involves scoring criteria across several categories, including business planning, financial viability, and community impact. Recipients are responsible for maintaining financial records, complying with reporting requirements, and completing quarterly reimbursement requests.

The program encourages early submissions to avoid last-minute technical issues and provides contact information for technical assistance and program inquiries.