Grants & Funding for Rural Businesses & Farms
Rural businesses and agricultural producers have access to one of the richest sources of real cash grants in the federal government: USDA Rural Development. Unlike many programs that emphasize loans or contracts, USDA runs several true grant programs.
These programs fund everything from feasibility studies and processing equipment to renewable energy installations and broadband. Many require matching funds, so plan your budget with a cost-share in mind.
Below are the highest-impact USDA programs, how rural eligibility works, and the rural and agricultural listings currently in our database.
Key Programs to Know
Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG)
USDA Rural Development
Grants to public bodies, nonprofits, and tribes that support small and emerging rural businesses through training, technical assistance, and infrastructure.
Visit official program page →Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG)
USDA Rural Development
Planning grants up to $75,000 and working-capital grants up to $250,000 to help agricultural producers add value to their products. Requires 1:1 matching funds.
Visit official program page →Rural Energy for America Program (REAP)
USDA Rural Development
Grants and guaranteed loans for rural small businesses and agricultural producers to install renewable energy systems and make energy-efficiency improvements.
Visit official program page →How Rural Eligibility Works
- 1
Check that your project is in an eligible rural area using the USDA's address lookup tool.
- 2
Confirm your entity type matches the program (producer, small business, nonprofit, or public body).
- 3
Budget for required matching funds — many USDA grants are cost-share.
- 4
Prepare a feasibility study or business plan; larger awards expect detailed financials.
- 5
Contact your USDA Rural Development state office early — they guide applicants directly.
Insider Tips
- ✓Use the USDA property-eligibility map before you invest time — 'rural' is defined by population thresholds, not just feel.
- ✓Plan your match early; a strong cost-share commitment strengthens the application.
- ✓Your state USDA Rural Development office is a free, knowledgeable resource — call before you apply.
Rural Businesses: Opportunities in Our Database
Frequently Asked Questions
Does USDA really give out cash grants?
Yes. USDA Rural Development runs several genuine grant programs — including RBDG, Value-Added Producer Grants, and REAP — alongside its loan programs. Many require matching funds.
What qualifies as a 'rural' area?
Eligibility is generally based on population thresholds (commonly areas under 50,000 people, with specific limits per program). USDA provides an online address lookup to confirm whether a location qualifies.
Do I need to match the grant with my own money?
Often, yes. Programs like the Value-Added Producer Grant require a 1:1 match. Always check the cost-share requirement before applying so you can plan your budget.
Explore more funding
GrantPlain is an independent directory and is not affiliated with any government agency. Always confirm eligibility and certification requirements on the official program pages linked above. Government grant and certification programs never charge a fee to apply.