Growing Future Organic Professionals
With fewer young people going into agriculture, many experts and sector leaders are concerned about the future of American farming. New organic farmers and entrepreneurs are needed to meet the demand for organic products that are healthy for both people and the planet. The Future Organic Farmers program provides financial support for organic education from middle school through college.
Scholarships are available for applicants in two categories:
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Middle and High School Students
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Vocational and Higher Education Students
Middle and High School Students:
Receive a grant for your organic FFA Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) project.
GRANT AMOUNT: $1,000
NUMBER OF GRANTS AWARDED: Up to 20
GRANT PURPOSE: The CCOF Foundation offers grants to help middle and high school students cover the expenses of conducting FFA SAE projects using organic production methods.
ELIGIBILITY: Applicants must be students in grades 7-12 who are current FFA members planning to do a SAE project. Proposed SAE project must follow USDA organic production standards. Applicants’ financial need is considered as part of the grant decision process.
DEADLINE: Applications open September 1, 2021. Application deadline is November 12, 2021. Apply on the FFA website.
Vocational and Higher Education Students:
We can help you pay for your studies in organic agriculture.
GRANT AMOUNT: $5,000
NUMBER OF GRANTS AWARDED: Up to 20
GRANT PURPOSE: The CCOF Foundation offers grants to higher education and vocational students pursuing degrees or certificates in organic agriculture to help with tuition and educational expenses.
ELIGIBILITY: Applicants must be enrolled in an educational program in the United States that will benefit their career in organic agriculture, including vocational training/certificate programs, junior college/two-year degree programs, and bachelor’s/four-year undergraduate degrees. Prior grantees are welcome to re-apply. Graduate studies are not eligible for grant funding. Applicants’ financial need is considered as part of the grant decision process.
DEADLINE: Applications are closed for 2021. Check back for information about 2022.
More Information
To learn more about Future Organic Farmers, please contact Shawna Rodgers at srodgers@ccof.org.