Government invests in urban farming expansion

$14.4M Grants for urban agriculture development

The USDA has unveiled $14.4 million in funding to promote urban agriculture and sustainable farming practices, divided between two impactful programs.

The Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (UAIP) Grants will provide $2.5 million for community gardens and nonprofit farms to enhance local food production, job training, and education.

These grants focus on planning and implementing urban agricultural projects such as hydroponics, vertical farming, and community-based food systems. Applications are open on Grants.gov until March 10, 2025.

Past grant recipients include -

• Howard-Sumaico School District (Green Bay, WI) - Using hydroponics for nutritious food access.

• Golden Triangle RC&D (Dawson, GA) - Supporting farmers with innovative vertical farming systems.

• Technical Assistance Partnership (Phoenix, AZ) - Strengthening urban farming in South Phoenix.

Additionally, the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), in partnership with NIFA, will invest $11.9 million to hire Urban Agriculture Conservation Extension Educators.

These experts will work in designated urban priority locations, helping urban producers with resource conservation, zoning navigation, and climate-smart practices.

“NIFA is excited to partner with NRCS and Land-grant Universities to increase the footprint of Cooperative Extension in dedicated Urban Service Center sites across the country,” said Dr. Manjit K. Misra, USDA NIFA Director.

These efforts align with USDA’s broader goals of enhancing food systems, promoting equity, and fostering sustainable farming practices. For further details, visit USDA.gov/urban.