Seeds for Stewardship

• Grant requests must be submitted by a local cooperative. Grant requests received directly from a local organization are not accepted.

• Each cooperative can receive up to $5,000 in matching funds annually.
• A minimum matching contribution of $1,000 and maximum of $5,000 will be considered.
• Cooperatives are eligible to receive up to two grants per year. For instance, a cooperative might choose to designate $3,000 to a local FFA chapter and $2,000 to assist a local fire department.
• Cooperatives with multiple locations are only eligible to receive up to two grants per year on behalf of the entire organization, regardless of how many locations they have.

• Applications are only accepted during the two application periods, Dec. 1 to Feb. 1 and May 1 to July 1 each year.

Applications are only accepted online from Dec. 1 to Feb. 1 and May 1 to July 1 each year. 

The Seeds for Stewardship competitive grant program supports requests that strengthen and uplift hometown communities. Priority is given to requests that align with ag safety and farmer well-being, agriculture education, and rural community vitality. Examples may include grain bin safety equipment and training, local FFA and 4-H support, and food shelf donations.

Seeds for Stewardship grants will likely not be awarded for: 

• Individuals, individual needs, or individual fundraisers
• Sports teams or athletic requests
• Medical/disease related causes
• Groups with religious affiliation or Religious groups for religious activities
• Political campaigns, fundraisers, or lobbying efforts 

Grants will be evaluated on a competitive basis and funds are not guaranteed.