The FruitGuys Community Fund (TFGCF) is expanding its mission to support small, sustainable farms across the U.S., including those in Alabama.
Since its inception in 2012, the fund has awarded …
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The FruitGuys Community Fund (TFGCF) is expanding its mission to support small, sustainable farms across the U.S., including those in Alabama.
Since its inception in 2012, the fund has awarded over $700,000 in grants to 143 projects, helping farmers enhance local food systems, promote diversity and protect the environment. Each year, the fund offers grants up to $5,000 for projects that support sustainability on small, independent farms and through agricultural nonprofits.
The FruitGuys Community Fund believes that small farms are crucial to building an equitable food system and maintaining environmental sustainability. The fund has awarded grants in 38 states and territories to date, with a significant focus on supporting women and BIPOC farmers — 87% of its grants have gone to those communities. As part of its 2025 grant cycle, TFGCF is targeting states where it has not yet provided funding, including Alabama, to expand its reach and impact.
Farmers and agricultural nonprofits in Alabama and other target states are encouraged to apply for the 2025 grant cycle. The fund has streamlined its application process based on feedback from past applicants, making it easier for farms to apply. Eligible applicants may receive grants up to $5,000 for projects that promote sustainable practices, enhance community food systems or support diversity in agriculture.
Grant applicants must be small farms with 250 acres or less, or agricultural nonprofits in operation for at least three years. For-profit farms must have been active for a minimum of two years, and applicants must provide a detailed project description, budget and timeline. Preference will be given to farms in states where the fund has not previously awarded grants, though all small farms are welcome to apply.
For 2025, applications must be submitted by Jan. 31, by 11:59 p.m. PST. Grant awards will be announced in May, with interim reports due in August and final reports due in January 2026.
Grants are available for small farms and agricultural nonprofits, with specific eligibility requirements. Farms must have 250 acres or fewer, and applicants must be farm owners or operators with legal land access. Ineligible farms include those outside the U.S. or those that have already received a grant from the fund. The fund does not cover certain costs, such as hydro/aquaponic systems, land purchases, labor or administrative expenses.
The FruitGuys Community Fund's mission to support sustainable, equitable agriculture continues to grow, with plans for expanding its reach in 2025. Small farms in Alabama and other underrepresented states are invited to apply and share in this effort to foster a resilient, sustainable future for agriculture.
TFGCF relies on donations to continue funding grants for small farms. Donations are 100% tax-deductible and go directly toward funding projects, rather than administrative costs. Those interested in supporting the fund can contribute to help more farms thrive in communities across the country.
For more information on how to apply, visit https://fruitguyscommunityfund.org/apply/.
