AFID Planning Grants
AFID Planning Grants support Virginia local governments with planning and business development projects that strengthen agriculture and forestry, connect communities, and advance local economic development.
Funder: Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
Due Dates: Rolling (applications)
Funding Amounts: Up to $20,000 for one locality or $35,000 for multiple localities; two years to complete deliverables
Summary: Matching grants help Virginia localities strengthen agriculture and forestry through planning and business development.
Key Information: Applicants must be political subdivisions and provide a match.
Description
The Governor’s Agriculture and Forestry Industries Development Fund (AFID) Planning Grant program supports Virginia local governments in integrating agriculture and forestry into economic development and job-creation efforts. It funds local projects that assist agriculture- and forestry-based businesses and bring local governments together with farm and forestland communities.
Projects may develop strategic or business plans, feasibility studies, marketing initiatives, local ordinances, or policies that preserve working lands. The program also supports agricultural development boards, agritourism and local food initiatives, and innovative entrepreneurship efforts. Other projects may be considered if they advance agriculture or forestry in the locality.
