In 2025, KCARD continued its mission of helping farmers and rural businesses grow. From launching new programs to expanding our reach across the Commonwealth, this year was defined by growth, impact, and a continued commitment to Kentucky’s agricultural and food economy.
A Year of Milestones
In 2025, KCARD prepared for an important milestone—25 years of service to Kentucky agriculture and rural communities, which will be celebrated throughout 2026. What began as a vision to support farmers and entrepreneurs has grown into a statewide organization working in nearly every corner of the Commonwealth.
While the official 25th anniversary will take place in 2026, 2025 was a year of reflection and momentum—reaffirming KCARD’s role as a trusted partner for farmers and rural businesses navigating change, growth, and opportunity.
““For nearly 25 years, KCARD has walked alongside Kentucky farmers and rural businesses—helping them adapt, grow, and plan for the future. In 2025, we honored that legacy by continuing to meet producers where they are and helping them prepare for what comes next.” ”
Throughout the year, KCARD laid the groundwork for its 25th anniversary in 2026, with plans to share additional anniversary-focused stories and reflections in the months ahead—highlighting the people, partnerships, and progress that has shaped the organization since its founding.
Launching the Kentucky AgriLegacy Solutions Program
One of the most significant developments of the year was the launch of Kentucky AgriLegacy Solutions, a new program designed to help farm families navigate transition and succession planning. As more farm owners face questions about retirement, ownership transfer, and long-term viability, this program fills a critical need.
Through KASP, KCARD provides tailored transition planning services to help farm families start important conversations and build plans that protect both their businesses and their legacies.
“Planning for the future of a farm is about more than numbers—it’s about family, values, and ensuring the next generation has a path forward,” said the KCARD Executive Director.
To learn more about this program, visit Kentucky AgriLegacy Solutions Program — Kentucky Center for Agriculture and Rural Development.
Expanding Access to Capital and Opportunity
In 2025, KCARD assisted producers, rural businesses, and organizations in securing $5,118,937 in state and federal funding, helping turn ideas into reality and strengthening local economies.
KCARD also began its partnership with the Kentucky Agricultural Finance Corporation (KAFC) mentorship program, welcoming 71 new mentees who are beginning farmers or participants in the Beginning Farmer or DEAL loan programs. KCARD staff works closely with each of these participants on business planning, cash flow projections, recordkeeping and connecting them with key resources available to them across the state —helping build skills essential for long-term success.
Statewide Impact by the Numbers
KCARD’s reach in 2025 extended across 106 counties, assisting 549 farms and businesses through direct services and technical assistance. That work translated into measurable economic impact:
137 jobs created
1,092 jobs saved
$31,820,043 in increased sales revenue reported by assisted businesses
These numbers reflect not just growth, but stability—helping farms and businesses remain viable in a changing agricultural landscape.
Connecting with Communities Across Kentucky
Education and outreach remained central to KCARD’s work. In 2025, staff presented at 88 events across the state, sharing practical knowledge on business planning, marketing, finance, and value-added agriculture.
In total, KCARD made 7,531 contacts through direct assistance, event participation, organizational representation, and targeted outreach efforts.
“Every workshop, meeting, and conversation is an opportunity to strengthen Kentucky agriculture—one producer, one business, one community at a time,” said Brent Lackey.
Looking Ahead
As KCARD reflects on 2025, the organization does so with gratitude—for the farmers, entrepreneurs, partners, and communities who have been part of its first 25 years and continue to shape its future.
“Our 25th anniversary is a reminder of how far we’ve come—and how important it is to keep moving forward,” said Brent Lackey. “The future of Kentucky agriculture depends on resilience, innovation, and collaboration, and we’re honored to be part of that journey.”
The challenges facing agriculture continue to evolve, but so do the opportunities. Building on the momentum of this anniversary year, KCARD will continue sharing stories from its 25-year history while expanding programs and services that help Kentucky agriculture remain resilient and competitive.
