Starting and scaling a vertical farming business requires substantial investment in various areas, such as infrastructure, technology, equipment, and operational costs. Securing adequate funding is critical in turning your vertical farming aspirations into a thriving reality.
When it comes to accessing grant funding for urban farms, there are several avenues you can explore. Here are some common sources to consider:
Government Grants - United States
For decades the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has been granting millions of dollars to rural farms. The government has recently begun offering increased financial assistance to urban farms. As populations grow, it’s expected they will continue to funnel more money toward urban farms situated in greenhouses or warehouses.
Grant programs the USDA funds include the Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP) and the Local Food Promotion Program (LFPP), which support initiatives related to urban farming, local food systems, and marketing.
Research grants offered by state departments of agriculture, environmental agencies, or economic development departments. Check with your local government to explore funding opportunities specific to your area.
Nonprofit Organizations
Many community foundations provide grants for projects related to sustainable agriculture, food security, and community development. Your ZipFarm project can fall under several of these areas, so be sure to research local foundations and their grant programs into a broader scope than producing food.
Organizations focused on environmental and conservation efforts often offer grants that support urban farming projects promoting sustainability and biodiversity.
Research foundation grants that prioritize community development, food justice, or environmental sustainability. Some foundations have specific grant programs dedicated to urban agriculture or local food systems.
Some corporations have corporate social responsibility initiatives that fund community-based projects, including urban farming.
Crowdfunding and Online Platforms
Online Grant Databases
Local Initiatives and Community Programs
Check if your local government or community development organizations offer grants that support neighborhood revitalization, including urban agriculture projects.
You can also explore partnerships with local community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs that may offer grants or resources to support local growers. Many ZipGrowers operate their businesses as a CSA and have accessed funding this way. Additionally, consider networking and collaborating with local organizations, farmers’ associations, and agricultural extension offices. They may know about additional funding opportunities or be able to guide the grant application process.
Pitch Perfect
Remember to thoroughly review the eligibility criteria and application requirements when applying for grants. Tailor your proposals to align with the specific goals and objectives of the funding source. Be prepared to demonstrate your urban farming project’s social, environmental, and economic impact.Â
For larger ventures, you can even reference some of the positive impacts that your business will have towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. A vertical farm in a local community can benefit the goals of food security, good health & well-being, responsible consumption and production, and sustainable management of water, to name just a few.
Download our free workbook to help you to get started!
