If you're running a farm, food business, or rural operation in Kentucky, you’ve probably heard about grants—but maybe you’ve also wondered:
“Where do I find them?”
“Am I even eligible?”
“How do I write a strong application?”
The truth is, grants can be a powerful tool to help you invest in infrastructure, scale production, enter new markets, or transition to value-added products. But the process of finding the right grant—and applying successfully—can feel overwhelming.
That’s where KCARD comes in. KCARD can help you:
Find funding opportunities that match your goals
Understand eligibility requirements
Strengthen your application
Plan your project and budget
Navigate reporting and follow-up requirements after the grant is awarded
Whether you’re a first-time applicant or looking to take your next big step, KCARD can walk you through the process from start to finish.
5 Grant Application Tips for Farmers & Food Businesses
Here are five tips to keep in mind when you’re applying for grants—especially if you're in agriculture, local food, or rural business development.
1. Start with a Clear Project Idea
Before you start searching for grants, think about what you need funding for:
Equipment for processing or packaging?
Infrastructure like cold storage or greenhouses?
Organic certification?
Training or education?
Expansion into new markets?
The more specific and realistic your idea, the easier it will be to match with the right grant—and write a compelling proposal.
KCARD can help you define your goals and turn them into a solid project plan.
2. Know What Grants Will and Won’t Pay For
Most grants won’t cover:
General operating expenses
Purchasing land
General-purpose vehicles like trucks or tractors
But many will fund:
Equipment that improves efficiency
Value-added processing
Market expansion
Water management
Education and training
KCARD helps you understand these fine details, so you don’t waste time applying for something ineligible.
3. Gather Your Numbers
Budgets are often the trickiest part of a grant application. You’ll need to:
Get quotes for equipment or supplies
Estimate costs accurately
Show how you’ll match funds, if required
Explain how the investment will impact your business
KCARD’s business planning support includes helping you develop realistic budgets, financial projections, and return-on-investment calculations.
4. Tell Your Story
Grants aren’t just about numbers—they’re about impact. Why does your farm or food business matter? What makes your story unique? How will this project make a difference in your community or local food system?
KCARD can help you craft a narrative that connects with reviewers and aligns with the grant’s goals.
5. Don’t Go It Alone
Writing a grant application is a lot of work—but you don’t have to do it by yourself. Organizations like KCARD are here to help. Our team has experience with:
USDA grants
Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund applications
Local and regional food systems funding
And other farm and rural business opportunities
KCARD offers free, confidential assistance and can even review your application before you submit.
What It’s Like to Work with KCARD on a Grant
Whether you’re just exploring funding options or already have a specific grant in mind, KCARD can walk with you through every step of the process.
Here’s what that typically looks like:
1. You Reach Out — With a Question or a Goal
You don’t have to have everything figured out. Many folks call KCARD simply asking:
“Is there any funding available for what I want to do?”
“Could I qualify for something like this?”
“I heard about a grant—can you help me apply?”
Whether you’ve got a project in mind or are just testing the waters, KCARD will start by listening to your goals and learning about your business. We can help you figure out if a grant is the right fit—or steer you toward a better opportunity.
2. KCARD Helps You Think It Through
Once you have a funding opportunity in mind, we'll help you dig into the details:
What exactly do you want to do with the funds?
Does your project meet the eligibility guidelines?
How will this benefit your business and community?
What supporting documents will you need?
KCARD will help you sharpen your idea into a clear, fundable project.
3. Work Together on the Application
KCARD will guide you through the application process, helping with:
Budget planning and cost estimates
Narrative editing that tells your story effectively
Answering grant questions clearly and thoroughly
Identify supporting documents (like quotes, business plans, or financials)
Our goal is to make the process less overwhelming—and help you submit something strong, complete, and on time.
4. KCARD Reviews and Strengthens Your Application
Before you hit "submit," KCARD can give your full application a final review, catching any weak spots, missing info, or red flags that could hurt your chances. We know what funders are looking for and will help you make your proposal as competitive as possible.
5. Post-Award Help, Too
If you are awarded the grant, KCARD doesn’t disappear. We can help you:
Understand your responsibilities (reporting, spending, documentation)
Stay on track with project timelines
Make adjustments if plans change
Ready to Apply? Let KCARD Help You Get Started
If you’ve got an idea, or even just a hunch that your farm or food business needs funding, don’t wait until the next deadline sneaks up on you. Reach out to KCARD early in the process so you can:
Plan ahead
Avoid mistakes
Submit a strong, polished application
Contact KCARD today to talk with a staff member who can help guide you through your grant journey.