Applications Now Open for Next Step Farm Grant

Bread Riot will award funds from $1,000–$5,000 to help grow small farms and increase the variety of farm produce and products available in Rowan County.

Small farmers in Rowan County can now apply for a 2023 Next Step Farm Grant from Bread Riot. This grant is intended to grow our small farms and increase the variety of farm produce and products available in Rowan County. Funding may range from $1,000–$5,000, and funds will be available as early as mid-May of this year.

So what is the next step for your farm? Consider sustainable farming practices, organic/chemical-free farming, developing a niche or specialty market, growing winter produce, selling at the Salisbury Farmers Market and/or to the public in another way, or continuing your education toward a specific goal related to your farm.

To apply, you will need to describe your current situation, explaining what you currently have the capacity to do, and provide a time frame for accomplishing your future goals as well as a solid business plan.

Submit your Next Step Farm Grant application by May 8, 2023.

If your application is accepted, you will need to register with the Rowan County Cooperative Extension for support, provide quarterly progress reports to the Bread Riot Board for the first year, and allow us to visit your farm.

Bread Riot’s mission is to link farms to tables by supporting our small farmers and providing access to locally produced foods throughout the community. Programs such as the Next Step Farm Grant promote that mission and fulfill our objective of helping local farmers expand their production and reach.