Beginning Farmer & Rancher Development Program (BFRDP)

Support for New Ranchers to Build Skills & Resilience

The BFRDP provides funding to organizations that deliver education, mentorship, outreach, and technical assistance to new or early-stage farmers and ranchers. It doesn’t fund equipment directly, but helps build capacity, knowledge, and networks so your operation becomes more sustainable.

Who Qualifies / Eligible Recipients

• The grants are awarded to networks or partnerships (not individual farmers) such as cooperatives, extension services, NGOs, educational institutions.

• The programs must benefit beginning farmers/ranchers (those who have farmed/ranched ≤ 10 years).

• Projects can include: training, technical assistance, business planning, resource referrals, succession planning, and other supportive services.

What You Can Get / What It Supports

• Funding to deliver training, workshops, mentorship, outreach, and educational materials.

• Grant lengths vary. Some are one year (“simplified standard”), others are multi-year under “standard” or “educational team” categories.

• Matching / cost-share requirements or partner contributions are often required.

Key Timing & Application Notes

• The RFA (Request for Applications) generally opens in late winter / early spring (Feb/March) annually.

• Applicants usually have approximately 60 days after RFA release to submit their proposals.

• Technical assistance and webinars are often provided in advance to guide applicants.