By Jamie Martin
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced $14.4 million in funding to support urban agriculture and innovative production. This initiative comprises two key funding programs aimed at boosting food systems and promoting sustainable farming practices.
The first program, Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (UAIP) Grants, allocates $2.5 million for community gardens, nonprofit farms, and other urban agricultural efforts.
These grants enable planning activities, such as zoning and business development, and accelerate emerging urban farming models, including hydroponics and vertical farming. Applications can be submitted via Grants.gov until March 10, 2025.
Selected projects from previous years include -
- Howard-Sumaico School District (Green Bay, WI) - Using hydroponics to improve access to fresh food.
- Golden Triangle RC&D (Dawson, GA) - Supporting new farmers with vertical farming systems.
- Technical Assistance Partnership (Phoenix, AZ) - Building a robust urban farming industry in South Phoenix.
The second program, funded by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), provides $11.9 million for hiring Urban Agriculture Conservation Extension Educators.
These educators will assist urban producers in conserving resources, implementing climate-smart practices, and navigating administrative complexities like zoning.
“This grant program continues to grow in popularity, and we look forward to partnering with more communities nationwide to strengthen local food systems and increase access to healthy foods,” said Louis Aspey, Acting Chief of NRCS.
For more information on USDA’s urban agriculture initiatives, visit USDA.gov/urban.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National