Constitution State News

The Connecticut Department of Agriculture (CT DoAg) has announced the recipients of the 2025 Farm Transition Grant. A total of $527,000 has been allocated to support 29 projects across the state aimed at enhancing agricultural production for both new and existing farm operations.

In this competitive grant round, CT DoAg received 80 proposals requesting nearly $1.6 million in funding for projects totaling more than $3.9 million. Of the awarded funds, $303,395 will be directed towards seven farms to develop new products, while $165,150 will strengthen infrastructure at nine farms. Additionally, $55,550 will aid twelve farms in their initial three years of operation, and $3,900 will assist one farm in testing a new product's viability. Notably, 20 out of the 29 recipients have not received a Farm Transition Grant award in the past five years; among them are 19 beginning farmers and eight farmer veterans.

The awards cover various sectors within Connecticut's agriculture industry. This year sees significant investment in poultry with seven projects aimed at increasing chicken production and four focused on egg production. Other areas receiving support include meat, fruits, vegetables, cut flowers, vineyards, honey, and maple syrup.

Agriculture Commissioner Bryan P. Hurlburt emphasized the strategic nature of these investments: "We are dedicated to strengthening the resilience of our agricultural community, and these awards represent a strategic investment in advancing that goal," he stated. Hurlburt also highlighted the importance of microgrants for new farmers and noted how research and infrastructure projects contribute to sustaining existing businesses.

The Farm Transition Grant is funded through C.G.S. Section 22-26k to bolster Connecticut's agricultural economic viability during periods of growth and change. More information about the program can be found at www.CTGrown.gov/Grants.

For further details about CT DoAg's mission to promote a healthy climate for agriculture in Connecticut or media inquiries contact Rebecca Eddy at Rebecca.Eddy@ct.gov or call 860-573-0323.