2025 WNC AgOptions Grants
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Collapse ▲Soon it will be time for farmers to apply for the 2025 WNC Ag Options Grants. WNC Ag Options works to build sustainable farming communities in our mountain region by providing resources directly to farmers who are diversifying or expanding their operations. The ultimate goal of Ag Options is to protect mountain farmland by assisting the longevity of farm enterprises. Priority is given to farmers who have a tobacco history.
In 2025, grants of $5,000 and $10,000 will become available to farmers
located within a 22-county area of Western North Carolina.
PLEASE NOTE: Funding for the WNC AgOptions 2025 cycle has not yet been awarded to WNC Communities, the fiscal manager of the grant. However, we are proceeding with the application process as we wait for final notification.
Since 2004 supported by the N.C. Tobacco Trust Fund Commission, WNC AgOptions has provided grant funding for farmers wanting to diversify or expand their production in the following defined counties/units: Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Clay, Cleveland, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania, Watauga, and Yancey Counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee.
There are many types of projects and improvements that are a good fit for this grant program. If you are interested in this program, consider the following helpful tips in writing a successful grant proposal:
- Intent to apply (October 11) – It’s important let your County Extension Agent know you plan to apply. If your project involves livestock, beekeeping, hay, pasture and or forage crops contact Joe Deal 828 349 2046 or joe_deal@ncsu.edu. If your project involves vegetables, nursery, flowers, berries, or other specialty crops then contact Christy Bredenkamp at 828 349 2046 or clbreden@ncsu.edu Once you have talked to your Extension Agent about your intent to apply, fill out this online google form by October 11: INTENT TO APPLY 2025. You will be notified about the status of the 2025 program when funding is officially awarded.
- Plan & research your topic in depth e.g., the market, your customers, income, expenses and more. Review the WNC AgOptions website to gather ideas from previous recipients.
- Be precise but thorough in your grant proposal. When answering questions, be mindful some questions have 2-5 components.
- Download the Sample Application here in pdf form or in MS Word. Note the final application will be released upon confirmation of funding.
- Write the proposal as if the reader is not familiar with your type of farming operation.
- Have others review your proposal including your local Extension Agent.
- Experienced reviewers look over your proposals so don’t exaggerate your budget numbers or expected income. It’s normal if you see little to no expected income in the first year.
- Include two quality letters of support from partners or cooperators who will help you complete your project goals. Choose individuals who will provide advice or assistance.
- Don’t forget to get your application notarized.
- Application deadline is November 15, 2024.
- For additions tips go to: https://wncagoptions.org/grant-writing-tips/
There will be several upcoming informational meetings about the WNC AgOptions grant program for growers and producers throughout the counties from September 3 through September 30, 2024. Click the following link for places, dates, and times.
For more in information contact the Macon Extension Center at 828 349 2046.
Jodie McCord of Great Blue Farms – a 2022 WNC AG Options recipient