Maryland Infrastructure Grants

The Rural Advancement Foundation International (RAFI) is offering its 2024 Infrastructure Grant Program, which aligns with its mission to support the viability and sustainability of historically underserved farmers and ranchers. This program aims to foster projects that enhance farm viability, create new markets for local agricultural products and services, develop innovative uses for existing farm infrastructure, add value to farm products through processing, packaging, or marketing, and optimize the use of on-farm and natural resources. Additionally, the grant supports cultural and heritage projects dedicated to preserving and continuing specific agrarian traditions, reflecting RAFI's broader commitment to a resilient and equitable food system. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are historically underserved farmers and ranchers, as defined by NRCS, who are in at least their fourth full growing season and have operated their current farm for at least two years. The program specifically targets "livelihood" farmers and ranchers who depend on agriculture for their financial support or are pursuing a long-term career in farming. Eligibility extends to individual farmer owners/co-owners or farm cooperatives, provided at least 50% of the cooperative members meet the individual eligibility criteria. The grants range from $1,000 to $10,000 and are available to farms located in specific states: AL, AR, DC, FL, GA, KY, LA, MD, MS, NC, SC, TN, or VA. Funding priorities are given to proposals demonstrating a high expected impact on farm viability and sustainability, strong project feasibility, and comprehensive planning, including a clear plan, detailed budget, timeline, and all necessary supporting documentation. RAFI also prioritizes farmers who derive a significant portion of their household income from farm operations, individuals with financial need, or those located in economically disadvantaged areas. Projects that tangibly benefit the surrounding community and farms utilizing agroecological and/or ancestral farming practices are also highly favored, reflecting RAFI's strategic priorities for holistic agricultural development and community engagement. The expected outcomes of the Infrastructure Grant Program include increased farm viability and sustainability for historically underserved farmers, the establishment of new and diversified markets for local products, and the preservation of valuable agricultural traditions. Through these grants, RAFI aims to support projects that lead to concrete improvements in farm infrastructure, expanded income streams for farmers, and a stronger connection between agricultural practices and community well-being. By focusing on these outcomes, RAFI reinforces its theory of change, which posits that targeted financial support and capacity building for underserved farmers will lead to a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable agricultural landscape.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in the Greater Washington, D.C. area to promote economic independence through education and development initiatives.

This funding opportunity supports research projects that address challenges in watershed restoration, targeting both nonprofit and for-profit organizations, including academic institutions, to improve restoration practices and outcomes in the Chesapeake Bay region.

This program provides financial assistance to Maryland individuals and businesses for purchasing livestock and meat processing equipment, with a focus on enhancing large-animal and blue catfish processing capabilities.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations and community groups in Anne Arundel County to implement projects that improve water quality and reduce pollution in local waterways.

This funding opportunity supports individual artists and arts professionals in Prince George’s County, Maryland, to create new works or advance ongoing projects that engage and benefit the local community.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations in Prince George’s County, Maryland, to create impactful arts and cultural projects that promote community engagement, inclusivity, and diversity.

This program provides financial support to solar developers to help low-income Maryland households access affordable clean energy through community solar projects.

This program provides funding to nonprofit organizations and schools in underserved communities to improve local football fields, ensuring safe and accessible spaces for youth sports and community engagement.

This program provides funding to agricultural producers, seafood processors, and nonprofit organizations in Maryland to improve food storage and distribution systems in rural areas, enhancing access to healthy, locally sourced food.

This program provides funding for projects that enhance Maryland's heritage and promote tourism within its certified heritage areas, supporting both nonprofit organizations and government entities in preserving local culture and boosting economic development.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to organizations in the Appalachian region for projects that promote economic diversification and workforce development in communities impacted by coal industry job losses.

This funding opportunity supports organizations in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, to enhance ecological restoration and conservation through tree planting and the protection of forested lands.

This funding opportunity is designed for qualified nonprofit organizations in Montgomery County, Maryland, to support capital projects that improve community resources, provide essential services, and promote cultural and historical enrichment.

This grant provides funding to local governments, nonprofits, and community organizations in the Chesapeake Bay watershed to implement sustainable urban greening projects that improve stormwater management and enhance community green spaces.

This funding opportunity supports collaborative performing arts projects in the Mid-Atlantic region, enabling multiple presenters to engage audiences through high-quality performances and community-focused activities.

This funding opportunity supports arts education projects for students in kindergarten through grade 12 in Prince George’s County, Maryland, promoting cultural accessibility and community engagement.

This program provides competitive funding to nonprofit organizations, local governments, and individuals for the preservation and enhancement of sites significant to the African American experience in Maryland.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to local agencies for home repairs and improvements that enhance safety, accessibility, and livability for low- and moderate-income households across Maryland.

This funding opportunity supports organizations in Maryland that aim to improve healthcare access and outcomes for underserved rural populations through various health initiatives and programs.