USDA Beginning Farmer Veteran Set-Aside (FSA & NRCS)
USDA priority funding pools at FSA (farm loans) and NRCS (conservation programs) that include veteran farmers as beginning/socially-disadvantaged producers.
About this program
USDA defines a military veteran farmer or rancher as a producer who served in the U.S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, or Coast Guard, including the reserve components. Veterans are included in 5% of EQIP and CSP funds set aside by NRCS for beginning farmer/rancher and socially disadvantaged producers, with separate ranking pools that increase the odds of selection. Veterans may also receive funding priority and higher financial assistance rates for implementing conservation practices. The EQIP Advance Payment option provides at least 50% of the contracted payment up front, before practice is implemented, to purchase materials or contract services. FSA also reserves loan funds for veteran farmers.
Eligibility
Veterans who served in the U.S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, or Coast Guard, including reserve components; engaged or beginning in agricultural production; all entity members must independently meet veteran definition for joint operations.
Requirements
- Veteran status (DD-214 or equivalent)
- Engaged in agricultural production or beginning farmer status
- Application through local USDA Service Center (FSA or NRCS)