Purpose of the Bill

The bill provides funding to support a farming incubator project aimed at helping Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) aspiring farmers. The goal is to increase equitable access to resources necessary for sustainable and organic farming.

Main Provisions

• Funding: The bill appropriates $150,000 for each fiscal year 2026 and 2027 to support the project.
• Grants to Farmers: Direct grants will be offered to farmers who face limited access to land. These grants cover the costs associated with land rental, seeds, compost, irrigation, farm equipment, marketing, transportation, and organic certifications.
• Project Infrastructure and Coordination: Funds will also be used to cover administrative costs, hire a project coordinator, and improve infrastructure at the Women’s Environmental Institute to facilitate the incubator project.
• Training and Education: The project will provide education and training in organic and regenerative farming practices, including food safety, financial management, composting, and soil health.
• Geographic Allocation: One-third of the funds are specifically allocated to communities outside the seven-county metropolitan area.

Significant Changes

• The bill introduces a new initiative specifically targeting BIPOC communities to promote diversity in agriculture and improve access to organic farming resources and training.
• It ensures equitable distribution of farming resources and knowledge, addressing existing disparities in land access and farming opportunities.

Relevant Terms

farming incubator project, Black Indigenous and People of Color, equitable access, organic farming, regenerative farming, farming grants, agricultural support, food production, environmental institute, land access, sustainable agriculture