
This comprehensive resource guide is designed to help veteran farmers navigate the available support systems and find the information they need to thrive in agriculture. We’ve compiled a list of key resources, categorized for easy access, with brief descriptions to help you understand the benefits each offers. Finally, this is a community effort! Help fellow veteran farmers by suggesting additional resources. Email them to us!
Information for Beginner Farmers: Getting Started on the Right Foot
Starting a farm can be challenging, but these resources provide valuable guidance for beginners.
- AiSA’s Farm Program: Get hands-on agribusiness training and earn 16 college credits towards an undergraduate degree or certificate with the University of Minnesota Crookston.
- University of Minnesota: Farm Answers: This resource offers a wealth of information for beginner farmers, covering topics from farm management and production to marketing and financial planning.
Government Resources Guide for Veteran Farmers: Navigating Federal Programs
Several government agencies offer programs specifically designed to support veteran farmers.
- Farmer Veteran Coalition: Guide for Farmer Veterans: The Farmer Veteran Coalition provides a comprehensive guide to resources available to veteran farmers, including information on funding, training, and networking opportunities.
Farm Support Organizations and Programs: Expanding Your Network
Connecting with other organizations and programs can provide additional support and resources for veteran farmers.
- National Organic Program: Learn about the National Organic Program and how to become a certified organic farmer, which can open up new market opportunities.
- USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS): The NRCS offers technical and financial assistance to farmers and ranchers who want to implement conservation practices on their land, including programs specifically for veterans.
- USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA): The FSA provides a variety of programs to support farmers, including farm loans, disaster assistance, and price support programs.
- USDA Farm Loan Programs: Explore the different farm loan programs offered by the USDA, which can help veterans access capital to start or expand their farming operations.
- SCORE: SCORE.org, a non-profit and Small Business Administration (SBA) resource partner, provides free business mentoring, resources, and education to small business owners.
Veteran Affairs: Your Gateway to Benefits and Support
The VA offers a range of benefits and programs designed to support veterans in all aspects of life, including pursuing a career in agriculture.
- VA Education and Training Benefits: Explore the various educational and training benefits available through the VA, including opportunities for agricultural education and skill development.
- Apply for GI Bill and Related Benefits: Learn how to apply for GI Bill benefits, which can be used to fund agricultural training programs and education.
- VA Education Benefit Rates: Find the current rates for VA education benefits to help you plan your finances and educational goals.
- Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E): Discover how VR&E can assist veterans with disabilities in obtaining suitable employment, including support for starting or expanding a farming business.