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Regenerative Farmer Network Grant
Regenerative Farmer Network Grant
Contact MDARD’s Regenerative Agriculture Program: MDARD-RFNG@michigan.gov
Overview
The Regenerative Farmer Network Grant (RFNG) provides annual funding from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) to help farmers across Michigan build peer-to-peer networks focused on regenerative agriculture.
By fostering farmer-led collaboration, RFNG accelerates the adoption of regenerative practices through shared knowledge, mutual support, and hands-on experience. Regenerative farmer networks play a vital role in scaling sustainable agriculture across the state, empowering farmers to lead, innovate, and support one another in building healthier soils, stronger communities, and a more resilient food system.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Regenerative Farmer Network Grant
Funding Priorities:
Networks demonstrate consistent and creative approaches to regenerative practices including:
- Projects that highlight the five pillars of regenerative agriculture: integrating livestock, minimizing disturbance, promoting diversity, maintaining living roots and covering soil.
- On-farm education and/or research with a clear plan to share results with the broader farming community.
- A comprehensive outreach plan that promotes the environmental, financial and community benefits of regenerative agriculture.
- Projects that emphasize farmer-to-farmer mentorship and efforts that are led by farmers. Innovative projects that advance regenerative knowledge by layering, adapting, or piloting new practices.
- The formation of a new network in an area with little to no farmer-led regenerative activity.
- Marketing initiatives that develop new markets, enhance branding, and boost consumer awareness of regenerative products.
Additional Resources
- Wisconsin Department of Agriculture Producer-Led Watershed Protection Grant - Find examples of established farmer networks, their projects, and additional resources.
- SARE Creating Farmer Networks Toolkit - A toolkit for navigating the establishment and management of farmer networks.
- SARE Farmer Field Day Toolkit - A toolkit for running a successful field day.
- Frequently Asked Questions: Find answers to frequently asked questions about the Regenerative Farmer Network grant.