Rodale Institute offers a micro-grant program specifically targeted to support projects and consulting for small-scale BIPOC* farmers, whether you’re organic, transitioning to organic, or an aspiring organic farmer.

Grant funding is focused on needs such as tools, equipment, training, consulting, or anything that ensures the farmer’s success. Funding should have the potential to positively impact a farmer’s transition to organic, allow them to better market their products, or solve a particular problem that is typically un-fundable through normal operational or lending strategies. Projects that have a high level of potential impact on the individual farm and/or the communities they serve will be given the highest priority.

*Black, Indigenous & People of Color

How does the program work?

Applicant Eligibility: Any U.S. small-scale BIPOC farmer who is currently organic or wishes to pursue the transition process to become organic, or any student/intern/apprentice farmer involved in an organic operation is eligible to apply for these funds. The Organic Farmers Association is a partner in the process to identify and screen potential recipients for the grants. Full application details are listed below.

Funding Amount: Projects will be prioritized based on potential impact and success. Project budgets should be a maximum of $2,000.

Program Management: This program will be managed out of the Rodale Institute Finance office and will be governed by all Institute policies and procedures related to invoice submission and payment, governing policies of the Institute regarding culture, and are subject to recall if regulations and procedures are not adhered to.

Reporting: An annual report will be due 60 days after the end of the project. Please submit the report to BIPOCgrants@RodaleInstitute.org.

How to Apply

Timeframe: Applications for this grant will open in the Spring of 2024. Proposals will be reviewed by a committee of Rodale Institute staff and board members, Organic Farmers Association, and/or partnerships with other groups as appropriate. Funds will be available immediately and released as per the demands of the project being funded.

Application Process: The application process is a streamlined process requiring a complete application and budget (applications will be available in the Spring of 2024). Additional appendices are permitted with a total limit of 5 pages. The Finance office is available to help with any or all parts of the application process. Input from Rodale Institute staff or any other office is no assurance that the project being submitted will be funded.

Sample Projects

Below is a sample list of projects the Institute would consider fundable through this micro-grant. This list is not exhaustive and is meant for guidance and inspiration.

On-farm consulting by Rodale Institute Organic Consultants to support transition to organic

Hosting or attending workshops or educational events

Small-scale facility upgrades: cooler projects, raised bed construction, cold frames, etc.

Farmers Market marketing materials to improve sales

Unique outreach promotion designed to attract consumer attention

Special purpose software

Farm visitor experience enhancement such as tent, tables, displays, sound system, etc.

Signage

Book writing and publication

Stipend or tuition for a class

Stipend for internship, travel and/or apprenticeship

Professional farm photos, videos, or website

Questions?

Please contact us at BIPOCgrants@RodaleInstitute.org with any questions.