Funding Resources
Financial help for producers may be essential for expanding Farm to School and Early Childcare. Check back periodically, to find updates on funding resources.
Rio Grande Colonias: USDA Regional Food Business Center
One of 12 Regional Food Business Centers nationwide, the Rio Grande Colonias was funded by USDA (5-year $30 million project) and functions as a cooperative agreement between Texas A&M AgriLife, USDA, and several key partners and collaborators.
Serving small and mid-size producers and food business in Texas and New Mexico, the center aims to fortify the regional food system and increase economic opportunity throughout the region. The center will help strengthen connections between rural and urban areas. Their focus will be on Coordination, Technical Assistance, and Capacity Building.
If you have any questions about the Center’s offerings visit the website, rgcolonias.org, or fill out the Contact Us form.
Technical Assistance Webinar Series
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! à @rgcolonias
Delta: USDA Regional Food Business Center
A second center of 12, the Delta Food Business Center, handles the East Texas region. They are accepting funding applications starting in Spring of 2025.
TDA Funding Opportunities for Producers
Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) Farm Fresh Initiative supports local agricultural producers and child nutrition programs through grant funding, programs, and resources.
- Visit TDA’s Farm Fresh Funding Opportunities page for available supports to help advance your Farm to School business.
- Visit TDA’s Funding for Producers page to find out more information about the opportunities for Texas farmers, including TDA Grants.
Select the tab below for more information on the Farm Fresh Initiative.
USDA Funding Opportunities for Producers
Guide to USDA Grants and Loans that Support Farm to School Activities: This resource is a compiled overview of grants and loans currently available to support Farm to School activities. Some opportunities include:
- Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Grants
- Farm Loans
- Farm Storage Facility Loans
- Farm to School Support Service & Conference and Event Grants
- Sustainable Ag Research and Education Grants
- Business and Industry Guaranteed Loans
- Value-Added Producer Grants
To learn more about the Patrick Leahy Farm to School Grant Programs, visit https://www.fns.usda.gov/f2s/farm-school-grant-program
This project is funded by USDA.
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
