Grants

The intent of the Agriculture Infrastructure Grant Program is to advance Montana's agricultural industry through targeted investments in value-added agriculture projects across the state. Grants will assist with the development of innovative agricultural business improvements to keep pace with a transforming agricultural industry, create new jobs, and expand business opportunities.

Beginning Farm & Ranch loans are available from a tax-exempt bond program that aids financial institutions in assisting Montana's beginning farmers and ranchers. Loans can be used to purchase agricultural land and other depreciable agricultural property.

Junior Agriculture Loans assist and encourage members of agricultural youth organizations in financing agricultural projects when funding is unavailable from other sources. Projects can involve crop and livestock production, custom farming, marketing, processing and other financially feasible projects.

The Montana Department of Agriculture understands that the producer is the most important part of a farm or ranch operation and will be prioritizing mental health among Montana’s agricultural communities through a comprehensive program aimed at alleviating stress for Montana farmers and ranchers.

Noxious Weed Trust Fund Grants were established by the 1985 Montana Legislature to provide funding for the development and implementation of weed management programs. The trust fund also supports research and development of innovative weed management techniques including biological controls, and funds research and education projects.

Rural Assistance Loans are available to producers with modest financial investments in agriculture. These loans finance agricultural enterprises to enhance producers' operations and assist in the economic growth and welfare of Montana agriculture.

Specialty Crop Block Grants offer grant funds to Montana's specialty crop industry solely to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops in Montana: fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops (including floriculture). Funds are provided from the federal USDA Farm Bill.

Trade Show Assistance  This program assists Montana agriculture companies in exploring domestic wholesale markets by encouraging exhibition at new trade shows outside of the state. It is not only for companies new to trade show exhibition but can also be useful for established companies who are looking to exhibit at a show that they have never been to before.