Grants & veterans · guide
Grants and loans for veteran farmers: where to start
USDA programs that give veterans priority, and the paperwork to have ready.
Not yet expert-reviewed. Written by BAU Farm Intelligence from public extension and agency sources. Check dates and program details with your local extension office.
Get your farm number first
Visit your local USDA Farm Service Agency office and get a farm number. Most USDA programs need it.
Programs to know
- FSA Microloans and Farm Ownership loans: veterans can qualify as historically underserved producers.
- NRCS EQIP: cost-share for conservation practices; veterans get priority and higher payment rates.
- Farmer Veteran Coalition Fellowship Fund: small grants for equipment, for coalition members.
Have ready
DD-214, farm number, a simple business plan, and quotes for what you want to buy.
Check the tracker
Our grant tracker lists current deadlines and amounts. Dates marked "prior-year cycle" are estimates until the agency posts the new round.