Starting a farming business can be challenging and capital-intensive due to equipment costs, land acquisition, and operational expenses.
Hence it is not out of place for an aspiring female entrepreneur who wants to start a farming business to source funds from any available place. Interestingly, applying for grants is an option in this regard.
Even though there are grants available to support various types of businesses, it is important to note that specific grants tailored exclusively for female farmers may be limited.
But that does not mean that a female who wants to start a farming business cannot apply for available grants that are open to small businesses or related businesses.
Please note that before applying for any grants or loans, it is advisable to thoroughly research the eligibility requirements, application procedures, and any associated terms and conditions.
You may want to consider consulting with legal and financial professionals to ensure compliance and maximize your chances of securing funding for your farming business.
Available Grants for First-Time Female Farmers
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Grants
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers grants and loans for related businesses including female farmers. These grants aim to promote economic development and job creation in rural communities.
These grants help finance projects that create jobs, improve infrastructure, and stimulate economic growth in rural areas. Eligible recipients include farmers, rural cooperatives, nonprofits, and local governments.
Funds can be used for various purposes such as purchasing equipment, expanding facilities, or conducting feasibility studies. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Grants prioritize projects that benefit low-income communities and address local needs.
By investing in agriculture-related and rural businesses, these grants contribute to building stronger and more vibrant rural economies, fostering sustainable development and prosperity.
How to Apply
To complete an application for this program, you must be pre-registered with the System for Award Management (SAM). Neither of these applications cost money, but they can take time so be sure to get this taken care of right away. If you are already registered with these systems, you do not need to do it again.
Please note that all applications are evaluated based on:
- Evidence showing job creation at local businesses.
- Percent of non-federal funding committed to the project.
- Economic need in the area to be served.
- Consistency with local economic development priorities.
- Experience of the grantee with similar efforts.
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Grant.gov
Grant.gov is a U.S. government organization that provides access to the most extensive collection of federal funding. A variety of grant possibilities are available on Grant.gov for different kinds of businesses, including farming businesses.
On the website, first-time female farmers can look up grants and submit applications. Before applying, it is important to be aware of your eligibility status because different organizations have different requirements.
However, as most government policy initiatives favor enterprises in the science and technology industries, female farmers have a better chance of discovering grant opportunities on grant.gov.
Eligibility Requirements
Make sure you or your business is qualified to apply for the award before starting the application procedure. Two factors determine eligibility:
- Creating an account on Grants.gov to apply
- Knowing the legal requirements for the funding opportunity
How to Apply
- To get a general overview of grants, visit the Grants Learning Center.
- Before applying, be certain that you are qualified.
- Look for federal funds that are relevant to your work.
- Become a member of Grants.gov to apply through Workspace.
- Utilizing Workspace, complete and submit your application.
- For submission status, enter your Grants.gov tracking number(s).
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SBA 8(a) Business Development Program
The SBA provides various loan programs and resources for small businesses, including first-time female farmers. While not directly grants, these low-interest loans can help with startup costs.
The SBA 8(a) Business Development Program helps small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals gain access to government contracts and resources.
To qualify, businesses must be at least 51% owned and controlled by individuals who are socially or economically disadvantaged.
Once accepted, participants receive training, counseling, and competitive advantages in federal contracting opportunities, helping them grow and succeed in the marketplace.
The program aims to level the playing field for minority-owned businesses, providing opportunities for growth and economic empowerment.
Eligibility Requirements
The federal government defines who qualifies for the 8(a) BD Program in Title 13 Part 124 of the CFR.
An applicant must:
- Be a small business;
- Not have previously participated in the 8(a) BD Program;
- Be at least 51 percent owned and controlled by U.S. citizens who are socially and economically
- disadvantaged;
- Have a personal net worth of $850K or less, adjusted gross income of $400K or less, and assets totaling $6.5 million or less; and
- Demonstrate good character and potential to perform on contracts.
Steps on How to Apply
- Identify your primary NAICS code(s).
- Register your business in the System for Award Management (SAM) and the Dynamic Small Business Search (DSBS).
- Make sure to apply for 8(a) certification at certify.sba.gov. Before you start, make sure you visit the Knowledge Center on the Certify website.
- Get local assistance and find out if you are ready to apply by meeting with an SBA Business Opportunity Specialist or APEX Accelerator (formerly Procurement Technical Assistance Center) counselor.
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U.S. Department of Commerce Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA)
The MBDA is a Washington, DC-based organization established in 1969 by President Richard Nixon. The sole intention of this grant is to boost more minority-owned businesses in the United States.
This organization over the years has offered numerous programs either to boost your existing business or to help you in starting and managing one.
Requirements
To be eligible, you will need to be “at least 51 percent owned and operated by an individual that is at least 25 percent African American, Asian, Hispanic, or Native American” per Fundbox. To obtain funding, your farming business will also have to be certified by the Small Business Association.
How to Apply
- Register your business to apply for an MBDA grant
- Understand the Grant Announcement
- Attend a pre-application teleconference to learn more about the grant and requirements
- Understand the evaluation process
- Prepare and Submit the Application.
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National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE)
Small business owners including farming business owners can receive small business grants through the National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE).
This trade association supports small businesses and entrepreneurs. NASE does not specifically target first-time female farmers but all self-employed businesses that need funds to grow.
You need to be a registered member of the NASE for at least three months and have a strong business plan to be eligible to get a monthly grant of up to $4,000.
Members enjoy discounts on business expenses in addition to loans and other resources that facilitate business growth. You can apply on the NASE website if eligible.
Eligibility Requirement
- Have fewer than 20 full-time staff.
- You must have an EIN or ITIN number.
- Must have been operational for at least nine months.
How to Apply
You are required to visit their website to fill out the applications when it is open. You must make sure you have all the required documents handy when filling out the form.
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The Amber Grant for Women
The Amber Grant for Women is a monthly grant for female entrepreneurs including first-time female farmers. It is important to note that while self-employed female farmers can apply for the Amber Grant, competition can be fierce and there is no guarantee of winning. However, applying for grants and seeking out funding opportunities is a great way to help your business grow.
Requirements (Eligibility)
To be eligible, you must be a woman 18 years or older and the owner of a business in the United States. Your business must also be a for-profit enterprise and generate less than $150,000 in annual revenue.
How to Apply
To apply, you must complete an online application that includes information about your business, your vision, and your financial needs.
You will also be required to submit a $15 application fee. Applications are reviewed by a panel of judges who consider the following criteria:
- Business concept and market potential
- Owner’s experience and skills
- Financial need and use of funds
- Feasibility of the business plan
If you are selected as a winner, you will receive a $4,000 grant to use towards your business expenses. Additionally, you will be automatically entered into the running for the annual Amber Grant, which awards one winner with an additional $25,000.