The Farm Viability Enhancement Program (FVEP), administered by the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR), supports the long-term economic sustainability of commercial farms in Massachusetts. This program offers business planning services, targeted technical assistance, and significant financial support to enhance farm operations and preserve agricultural land. FVEP aims to increase farm profitability while ensuring continued stewardship of agricultural resources.

Participants in the program first receive one-on-one business planning assistance, including help with areas such as financial tracking, marketing, and family succession. These services are tailored to help each participating farm develop a viable strategy for future growth. After completing the planning phase, farms may be eligible to receive capital improvement grants ranging from $100,000 to $200,000. In return, participating farms must agree to sign an agricultural covenant that ensures the land remains in agricultural use for either a 10- or 15-year term.

The grants are awarded for projects that improve farm infrastructure and operations. Eligible uses of funds include building or renovating barns, farmstands, wash-pack facilities, and purchasing farm equipment. Improvements to essential farm resources such as wells or fencing are also covered. The funding is intended to address identified needs outlined during the planning process and help farms enhance their overall viability.

The application period for the current cycle is open, with a deadline of 4:00 PM on Thursday, April 10, 2025. Interested applicants must submit their applications through the COMMBUYS procurement portal, where the full Request for Response (RFR) and all application materials can be found in the File Attachments section.

For more information or technical support, applicants may contact program representatives Laura Barley at Laura.Barley@mass.gov (857-507-5548) or Melissa Adams at Melissa.L.Adams@mass.gov (413-726-2001). Additional resources, including FAQs and past participant lists, are available on the MDAR website to assist applicants in understanding the program structure and expectations.