USDA’s Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE) is making up to $8.4 million available for training and technical assistance for socially disadvantaged and veteran farmers and ranchers. The funding is made through the USDA’s Outreach and Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers Program (also known as the 2501 Program). “The USDA is committed to reaching all farmers and ranchers,” said OPPE Director Diane Cullo. “Through the 2501 program, the USDA is building lasting relationships among these farmers and ranchers, the local organizations that serve them, and the USDA’s local, state, regional, and national offices.” Eligible applicants include community-based organizations or coalitions of such organizations; 1890 or 1994 institutions of higher education; American Indian tribal community colleges or Alaska Native cooperative colleges and tribes or national tribal organizations; and Hispanic-serving institutions of higher education. Eligible entities must have experience in providing agricultural education or other agricultural-related services for socially disadvantaged and veteran farmers and ranchers. Applications must be in by May 15. See the request for applications for full details.

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