SARE Farmer/Rancher GrantGrant

NIFA (via SARE regions) · North Carolina

Program Overview

Grants for on-farm research into sustainable practices. Test cover crops, rotational grazing, reduced tillage, new varieties — and get paid to do it.

Program Details

Value Range $5,000–$30,000 depending on SARE region (individual or team project)

Deadline Varies by region, typically fall or winter

Where to Apply Your SARE regional office (online application)

Complexity Medium — online application with project narrative, manageable for a farmer

Required Documents

Farm description
Project plan
Simple budget
Outreach plan

Forms

Online application — project narrative, budget, outreach plan

Priority Advantages

The following groups may receive priority consideration for this program:

Beginning Farmer: higher payment rates, dedicated set-asides, fee waivers

Pro Tip: This is one of the few competitive grants designed for individual farmers (not universities). Extension involvement strengthens your application.

Recent Awards in North Carolina

Chimney Rock Village
$10.6M · Emergency Watershed Protection Program

Gypsy Moth Slow The Spread Foundation Inc
$4.7M · Forest Health Protection

Madison, County Of
$2.1M · Emergency Watershed Protection Program

Affinity Health Partners Llc
$1.0M · Community Facilities Loans And Grants

Your Local NIFA (via SARE regions) Office

FSA Alamance County Farm Service Agency
209 N Graham Hopedale Rd, Burlington, NC 27217-2971
(336) 228-1753

NRCS Burlington Service Center
209 N Graham Hopedale Rd, Burlington, NC 27217-2971
(336) 228-1753

Find more offices in North Carolina →

Frequently Asked Questions

Who may qualify for SARE in North Carolina?

Grants for on-farm research into sustainable practices. Test cover crops, rotational grazing, reduced tillage, new varieties — and get paid to do it. Contact your local NIFA (via SARE regions) office in North Carolina for specific eligibility requirements.

How much does SARE pay?

Value range: $5,000–$30,000 depending on SARE region (individual or team project). Actual amounts depend on your specific situation, crops, and acreage.

When is the SARE deadline?

Varies by region, typically fall or winter. Contact your local NIFA (via SARE regions) office for the most current dates.

How do I apply for SARE in North Carolina?

Apply at Your SARE regional office (online application). Required forms: Online application — project narrative, budget, outreach plan.

Related Programs in North Carolina

VAPG (Value-Added Producer Grant)Grant

Rural Development · Annual, typically spring (check grants.gov)

REAP (Rural Energy for America Program)Grant

Rural Development · Quarterly application windows

Specialty Crop Block GrantGrant

AMS · Varies by state — check your state department of agriculture

FMPP (Farmers Market Promotion Program)Grant

AMS · Annual, typically spring (check ams.usda.gov)

Beginning Farmer & Rancher Development ProgramGrant

NIFA · Varies

Learn More at USDA →

Program information sourced from USDA. Eligibility described here is general guidance only. Confirm at your local FSA or NRCS office. FarmGrant is not affiliated with USDA.