March 20, 2023 — Earlier this month, USDA announced it would provide assistance to producers who have faced discrimination in its farm lending programs. Specifically, USDA intends to allocate $2.2 billion by the end of the year and will work with qualified 501(c)3 entities to help with this process. Read the full USDA press release here.
While much information remains unknown, this is a big opportunity for BIPOC farmers to access much-needed debt relief.
USDA is seeking to partner with community-based organizations in historically underserved communities that have relationships with underserved farmers and food producers to provide outreach to potential applicants. USDA is asking interested organizations to express interest in an email to AskUSDA@usda.gov by March 31st.
For our part, Wallace Center submitted a request to USDA to be included in the process of distributing funds as equitably and efficiently as possible and advocate for these funds to go to BIPOC organizations and farmers. We’ll share what we learn as more information becomes available.
If you’re interested in learning more about partnering with USDA in these efforts, email AskUSDA@usda.gov by March 31st expressing your interest.
In other news, Spring is prime time for federal grants–of which there are several–plus 2023 is a Farm Bill year. A few of the current funding opportunities include:
The Wallace Center, through the Food Systems Leadership Network, will be offering a grant writing course and LAMP Grant 101 webinar this Spring. Stay tuned for details!
Finally, check out these organizations to learn more about the 2023 Farm Bill, advocacy tools, and how to make your voice heard: