The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food & Agriculture (NIFA) announced a new grant opportunity to help military veterans pursue farming and ranching careers. Funding is made through NIFA’s Enhancing Agricultural Opportunities for Military Veterans Competitive Grants Program (AgVets).

AgVets seeks to increase the number of military veterans gaining knowledge and skills through comprehensive, hands-on and immersive model farm and ranch programs offered regionally that lead to successful careers in the food and agriculture sector. The program encourages the development of training opportunities specifically designed for military veterans.

These projects will offer on-site, hands-on training and classroom education leading to a comprehensive understanding of successful farm and ranch operations and management practices. Projects may also offer workforce readiness and employment prospects for service-disabled veterans.

The available funding for AgVets grants in fiscal 2018 is approximately $4.7 million. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit entities.

The letter of intent deadline is Jan. 11, 2018. The application deadline is Feb. 8, 2018. See the request for applications for details.