We are excited to announce our 2023 Solid Ground Stipend Program! UConn Extension’s Solid Ground Program and the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources – Strategic Vision Implementation Committee are pleased to join forces to offer up to $2000 in stipends to new and beginning farmers in Connecticut.

This opportunity is intended for farmers with less than 10 years of experience operating their own business. Stipends can be used to purchase better tools and make upgrades to your operation instead of relying on low cost/low quality inputs.

Please read over the 2023 Guidance on Solid Ground Stipends for Beginning Farmers prior to completing the application. 

Note that priority funding this year will go to:

• Supporting the success of early phase beginning farmers (those who have been operating their own farm business for 3 years or less)
• Supporting the viability of farmers/market gardeners who identify as Black, Indigenous, People of Color
• Potential of stipend to contribute to conservation of natural resources, climate resilience, climate adaptation, or climate mitigation strategies
• Applicants who did not receive a Solid Ground Stipend in 2022 will receive priority for funding.  Applicants that were funded in 2022 are still eligible to apply.

Applications are due no later than 5 pm on 3/3/23.  A copy of the application for viewing purposes only can be accessed here: SG Stipend Application – View Only v2   Applications need to be submitted online:   Click here to apply.  

Visit newfarms.uconn.edu for more info!