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New Grants Open to Help Virginia Farmers Adopt Regenerative Practices — Up to $30K Available

05:39 PM, 12/02/2025
New Grants Open to Help Virginia Farmers Adopt Regenerative Practices — Up to $30K Available

American Farmland Trust has opened two grant programs to help U.S. farmers — including those in Virginia — adopt regenerative agriculture. The Healthy Soils Grant offers up to $30,000 for core soil-health practices; the Farm Vitality Grant provides up to $25,000 per producer for business development and equipment. Funding comes from AFT’s Brighter Future Fund; in July, 38 Virginia producers received $896,600. Applications close on Dec. 19.

The American Farmland Trust (AFT) is accepting applications for two nationwide grant programs — including for producers in Virginia — designed to help farmers and ranchers adopt regenerative agriculture practices that protect soil, improve resilience, and reduce climate impacts.

Regenerate Virginia, an AFT initiative launched in 2020, helps producers access funding and tools to rebuild healthier soils and strengthen farm businesses. "Regenerate Virginia brings together the tools farmers need to build healthier soils, strengthen their operations, and secure the future of agriculture in the Commonwealth," said Amanda Cather, AFT’s Mid-Atlantic Deputy Director.

Healthy Soils Grant — up to $30,000

This grant supports on-farm soil-health practices focused on preventing erosion and restoring long-term productivity. Eligible practices include:

  • Planting cover crops to reduce erosion and maintain soil cover.
  • Reducing reliance on harmful chemicals and avoiding excessive tillage.
  • Maximizing the presence of living roots in the soil year-round.
  • Diversifying crops and integrating livestock to enhance natural nutrient cycling.

Farm Vitality Grant — up to $25,000 per producer

This grant helps producers invest in business development, market and product expansion, and equipment that enables regenerative practices so farms can adopt soil-building methods more quickly. Examples of eligible equipment include no-till seed drills, roller-crimpers, and solar-powered irrigation pumps, among other tools that directly support regenerative systems.

Funding for both grant streams comes from AFT’s Brighter Future Fund, which focuses on conserving agricultural land and promoting practices that keep farms viable. In July, AFT awarded $896,600 to 38 Virginia farmers and ranchers through these programs.

Regenerative farming is promoted as a strategy to sequester carbon, reduce emissions, lower long-term input costs, and protect valuable farmland from development pressures. These grants aim to make it easier for producers to transition to practices that improve soil health and long-term resilience.

Applications are open now and will be accepted through Dec. 19. Producers interested in applying should review program details and eligibility requirements on the American Farmland Trust website.

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