Beginning Farmer and Farmworker Training Program - California Department of Food and Agriculture
Supports California organizations to develop or expand training and apprenticeship programs for beginning and underserved farmers and farmworkers, with a focus on removing barriers and building regional support networks.
Funder: California Department of Food and Agriculture
Due Dates (Anticipated): June 2028 (Full application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Total pool ~$5 million; typical awards vary; recent cycle funded 7 projects statewide.
Summary: Supports California organizations to develop or enhance training and apprenticeship programs for beginning and underserved farmers and farmworkers.
Key Information: Prioritizes projects serving historically underserved and socially disadvantaged groups.
Description
The Beginning Farmer and Farmworker Training Program, administered by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), is designed to strengthen new and existing training and apprenticeship programs for beginning farmers and farmworkers across California. The program aims to build networks and develop strategies to address barriers such as education, technical skills, land access, capital, and equipment necessary for successful crop production and marketing. A core focus is on supporting historically underserved and socially disadvantaged groups, ensuring pathways to farm ownership and improved job security for farmworkers through additional skills training. The program also seeks to foster regional networks so organizations can offer comprehensive support and training opportunities for those most underserved in California’s agricultural industry.
