RAFI has announced that it is offering cost-share grants of up to $10,000 for individual farmers and up to $30,000 for farmer groups.  Through its Tobacco Communities Reinvestment Fund, the Rural Advancement Foundation International-USA (RAFI-USA) is offering close to $2 million in cost-share grants for individual farmers and for farmer groups.  The funding provides cost-share support for farmers’ to try new production, marketing, and processing strategies in order to earn more income on the farm.

Deadline for applicants depends on your region of the state.  The application process is competitive.  High priority will be given to innovative projects which show a new direction or opportunity in farming. All farmers, throughout the state, who make an income from agriculture are eligible to apply.

RAFI is offering “How to apply” workshops across North Carolina through November.  The purpose of the workshops is to help potential applicants understand the application guidelines and process.  The workshops also give farmers some face time to get specific questions about their projects answered.  For more information about the grants and for a full list of workshops across the state, visit www.ncfarmgrants.org All workshops will be held at the local County Extension Agency office except when otherwise noted.