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Regenerative Farmer Network Grant

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.

If you have questions about the program, contact MDARD’s Regenerative Agriculture Program (MDARD-RFNG@michigan.gov).

Forms

  • Grant Application: The grant application period will be open from February 1, 2026 until February 27, 2026 at 5 p.m. ET. Applications must be submitted in Microsoft Word format to MDARD’s Regenerative Agriculture Program (MDARD-RFNG@michigan.gov).
  • Request for Proposals: This MDARD document includes guidelines for the grant application, including a checklist, and helpful definitions. 

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.

Eligibility Requirements:

To qualify, applicants must:

  • Create a farmer-led network that includes at least five agricultural farmers
  • Contribute 30 percent matching funds of the total request
  • Enter a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with at least one of the following:

Maximum award: $50,000
Administrative costs: Up to 25% of the total request (e.g., $12,500 for a $50,000 project)

A complete list of eligibility requirements is included in the request for proposals.