By Andi Anderson
The Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation, in partnership with Farm Credit Mid-America, has launched the Growing Tomorrow Grant to support young agricultural professionals and entrepreneurs.
This grant aims to provide financial assistance to those passionate about agriculture but facing challenges in starting their ventures.
Kelly Burns, the executive director of the Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation, noted that financial barriers are often the biggest challenge for young people in agriculture.
The Growing Tomorrow Grant aims to alleviate these obstacles, helping aspiring farmers and entrepreneurs turn their passion into meaningful careers.
Initiated earlier this year by Mike Boyert, Ohio Farm Bureau Northeast Regional Trustee, and his wife, Patti, the grant seeks to empower the next generation of agricultural leaders to develop sustainable solutions that benefit their communities.
The program also aims to enhance public understanding of agriculture and promote environmentally responsible farming practices.
Farm Credit Mid-America has pledged $250,000 over the next five years to support the program. Melanie Strait Bok, Senior Vice President of Agricultural Lending, emphasized the importance of investing in young people to shape the future of agriculture and foster innovative businesses.
By providing funding, the grant helps remove barriers for new agricultural ventures and encourages creative solutions.
The Growing Tomorrow Grant focuses on supporting early-stage agricultural businesses that create sustainable employment, foster educational opportunities, and promote environmental stewardship.
Young farmers and entrepreneurs interested in applying can find more information on the grant’s website.
Photo Credit: ohio-farm-bureau
Categories: Ohio, Sustainable Agriculture