Minnesota Department of Agriculture Accepting Applications for Grant Program

(KNOX) –The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is accepting new applications for its Down Payment Assistance Grants program.

A $20,000 grant is being given to help those looking to buy their first farm. The program has helped at least 130 farmers over the last five years, and $1.64 million is available for this year.

Applications open today and run through August 31. The sales must happen after applications close. Recipients will be notified in mid-September, and they have a six-month window to close on land purchases. There could be exceptions made if an applicant provides a signed purchase agreement, or written approval from an approved technical assistance provider stating that they are searching for land and that they are financially stable.

Applicants must have annual gross agricultural sales under $250,000 and provide at least $8,000 in matching funds in order to qualify. The grants are being awarded through a lottery, with priority given to those growing specialty crops or those with less than $100,000 in annual gross farm product sales. Farm purchases from direct family members are not allowed, but purchases can be made through extended family.

The Department of Agriculture is having a webinar for possible applicants on Tuesday, July 7 from 11am until 12 noon. The session will feature eligibility, recent program updates, additional resources and a Q&A session. More information and application details can be found at https://www.mda.state.mn.us/business-dev-loans-grants/down-payment-assistance-grant.