The Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Fund (MAERDAF) is a grant program managed by the Rural Maryland Council (RMC) and funded by the State of Maryland. It is designed to support rural-serving nonprofit organizations and community colleges that contribute to statewide and regional planning, economic and community development, and agricultural and forestry education. The initiative particularly encourages projects that help organizations develop capacity and foster public/private partnerships to leverage non-state funding sources.

Administered by the RMC, the grant awards are determined by the independent MAERDAF Grant Review Board. This board includes designees from Maryland's Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Health, Housing and Community Development, and Natural Resources, along with the Chair of the Rural Maryland Council. These determinations are final and binding. The total funding available for Fiscal Year 2026 is $599,735, with individual grants capped at $45,000. Given the competitive nature of the program, the number of applications often exceeds the funding available.

The program's focus areas include agriculture and forestry, energy, broadband expansion, youth engagement and leadership, economic and community development, and various educational and workforce initiatives. Eligible expenditures include consultant services, certain construction and renovation projects, vehicle purchases or rentals, and meals under specific conditions. Indirect costs are capped at 15%. However, the fund does not support full-time staff salaries, advocacy, lobbying, or the purchase of live animals and commodities.

Eligibility is limited to 501(c)(3) organizations and other designated entities such as community colleges, career technology centers, regional councils, and libraries that serve rural constituencies in Maryland. Projects must impact more than one rural county and be completed between August 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026. A valid W-9 form and proof of “Good Standing” status with the State of Maryland are required. Application submissions are conducted in two phases: a Letter of Intent by May 16, 2025, and, upon invitation, a full application by July 11, 2025. Awards will be announced the week of August 18, 2025.

The evaluation process considers eligibility compliance, clarity of project scope, achievable objectives, and the potential for measurable outcomes. Preference is given to projects that demonstrate matching funds, especially from federal or local sources, and those with strong community support. Required documentation includes interim and final reports, which must align with the original goals and outcomes stated in the application.

For questions or assistance, applicants may contact Charlotte Davis, Executive Director of the RMC, at (410) 841-5772 or via email at charlotte.davis@maryland.gov. The online application portal is accessible at https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=ruralmaryland.