APR Improvement Program (AIP)
The APR Improvement Program funds infrastructure and resource upgrades, plus technical support, to help commercial farms on protected land in Massachusetts improve viability and sustainability.
Funder: Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (Application deadline for APR Improvement Program)
Funding Amounts: Up to $80,000, $125,000, or $150,000 per award (cost reimbursement, 10% match required); technical assistance provided at no cost.
Summary: Supports commercial farms on protected land with planning, technical assistance, and grants for infrastructure and resource improvements to enhance farm viability.
Key Information: Only active commercial farms on APR-protected land for 3+ years are eligible; non-profits and prior AIP recipients are not eligible.
Description
The APR Improvement Program (AIP) provides business planning, technical assistance, and capital grants to commercial farms operating on land protected through the Massachusetts Agricultural Preservation Restriction (APR) Program. The aim is to sustain active farming by supporting infrastructure upgrades and resource improvements identified through a collaborative planning process. Eligible projects include new or improved agricultural buildings, resource enhancements like wells or fencing, and the establishment of perennial crops. The program also offers technical support in areas such as succession planning, marketing, and financial management to help increase long-term farm viability.
