Best Organic Farming and Agriculture Grants in West Virginia

Research for Novel Approaches in Sustainable Agriculture Grant Program

The Northeast SARE Research for Novel Approaches grant program funds ‘proof of concept’ applied research projects that are designed to confirm the benefits and/or feasibility of new practices and approaches—i.e., Novel Approaches—in agriculture.

These applied research projects must have some existing evidence from previous experiments or pilot projects (your own or others) suggesting that the practice or approach is beneficial and feasible, but further testing, data, and refinement are needed before it can be recommended for widespread adoption by farmers.

Research for Novel Approaches Grant projects require an explicit connection to the needs and interests of farmers in the Northeast. All proposals must include documented interest among farmers and service providers in utilizing or promoting the novel approach should it be proven beneficial and feasible.

Funding Available

Novel Approaches grants have a minimum award of $30,000 and a cap of $250,000.

Agricultural producers and non-industrial private forest landowners in West Virginia can receive support to enhance conservation practices such as cover crops, rotational grazing, and pollinator habitat while maintaining production. With a mission to improve natural resources, USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of West Virginia provides 5-year Conservation Stewardship Program contracts that reward ongoing and expanded stewardship, including a grassland conservation initiative.

Agricultural organizations, research institutions, community nonprofits, and farm consultants in West Virginia can apply for Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education’s Partnership Grants, with awards up to US $30,000 for on-farm sustainable agriculture research, education, and demonstration projects. Eligible projects must directly involve commercial farms and address production, marketing, or farmer and community well-being.

Agricultural producers in West Virginia seeking to improve water management, water quality, erosion control, or transition to organic practices can receive up to US $50,000 for conservation projects. Grants from USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of West Virginia provide up to 75% cost-share, with higher support for historically underserved producers implementing sustainable agriculture and agroecology practices.

Agricultural producers, ranchers, and nonindustrial private forest landowners in West Virginia can apply for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program to fund conservation practices on working lands. This USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service program provides technical and financial assistance to improve soil health, water and air quality, wildlife habitat, and climate-smart, sustainable agriculture practices.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving West Virginia and other Southern states can seek funding for humanitarian, relief, and community support projects. Grants from Robinson Foundation help established charities address needs like poverty relief, disaster response, medical assistance, and support for children, families, veterans, and spiritual endeavors, provided requests are for single-year, non-capital initiatives.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, or those with a fiscal sponsor, can seek general operating support for regenerative and organic farming and related sustainable agriculture work from Clif Family Foundation. Focused on sustainable agriculture and agroecology, the foundation invites grassroots groups, including those in West Virginia, to apply for one-year grants ranging from US $5,000 - US $50,000.

The Emergency Citrus Disease Research and Extension Pre-Applications program, funded by the USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture, seeks innovative proposals to combat Huanglongbing (HLB) and its associated diseases. This initiative aims to ensure sustainable citrus production in the U.S. through collaborative strategies that leverage existing knowledge. Funded projects will focus on developing actionable solutions for growers to effectively manage and prevent HLB infections, ensuring the health of citrus crops in the near future.

Regional organizations supporting farmers and ranchers with healthy soils practices in West Virginia may be eligible to apply for the CA Department of Food and Agriculture’s Healthy Soils Program Block Grant, with awards up to US $200,000. Funding helps partners deliver outreach, technical assistance, and on-farm soil health projects that advance sustainable agriculture.

Nonprofits, farms, and other organizations implementing regenerative agriculture projects in West Virginia can seek support to improve soil health, water quality, biodiversity, and reduce emissions. With a mission to foster innovative sustainability initiatives, Wright Foundation for Sustainability and Innovation funds projects across the contiguous U.S., Puerto Rico, and Canada that advance sustainable agriculture and carbon reduction.

Nonprofits, charities, and social enterprises advancing regenerative and sustainable agriculture can access support from One Young World for projects in Canada and the U.S., including work that may benefit West Virginia food systems. The Generation Regen Challenge, presented by BMO, offers up to US $200,000 for initiatives improving soil health, biodiversity, water, animal welfare, and food security.

West Virginia sustainable agriculture and agroecology researchers enrolled as PhD students at U.S. institutions can access funding for plant-based scientific research and outreach through the Botany in Action Fellowship. Administered by Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, this program awards US $6,000 plus an all-expenses-paid trip for science outreach training and public engagement.

Nonprofit organizations in West Virginia working on health, medical research, or hunger relief can seek grants to support programs, education, prevention, or direct services. With a mission to promote healing and fight hunger, Herbert Foundation provides funding that may benefit sustainable agriculture, agroecology, and food access initiatives connected to nutrition and hunger-related needs.

Nonprofit organizations and educational institutions working on food system transformation, including sustainable agriculture and agroecology, may be eligible for US $2,500 - US $10,000 to support their work. Grants from Stray Dog Institute help West Virginia and other U.S.-based groups advance farmed animal protection, environmental advocacy, food justice, and related systemic change efforts.

West Virginia organizations and individuals working on animal welfare advocacy, research, or sustainable agriculture-related animal issues can access funding through Centre for Effective Altruism’s Animal Welfare Fund, with awards up to US $200,000. Projects may include farmed animal advocacy, alternative protein policy work, or movement-building in neglected regions, including agricultural communities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and research institutions working on sustainable agriculture, agroecology, and pollinator conservation in West Virginia can access funding through the One Hive Foundation, which supports work across the U.S. and Canada. Grants up to US $75,000 back research, public education, advocacy, and capacity-building related to pollinator health and ecologically responsible agriculture.

U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving veterans with projects in sustainable agriculture, environmental stewardship, or related education can seek funding of up to US $100,000. Impact100 Global Veterans provides large project grants for new or expanded programs, including those in West Virginia, that enhance veterans’ well-being through conservation, recreation, or climate-resilient food systems.

Nonprofit organizations and public institutions working on sustainable agriculture, agroecology, and ecosystem restoration in West Virginia can access funding through the Biophilia Foundation, which supports U.S. projects with emphasis on the arid Southwest and Chesapeake Bay. Grants of US $5,000 - US $25,000 back private land conservation, watershed restoration, restorative economies, and conservation policy initiatives that enhance biodiversity.

West Virginia graduate students working on drinking water quality, environmental science, or public health research can access funding through the American Water Works Association. This US $3,000 scholarship supports projects that deliver actionable, timely outcomes for current water industry challenges, which may include sustainable agriculture and agroecology impacts on water resources.

Researchers studying community-led sustainable agriculture and agroecology in Latin America and the Caribbean, including links to West Virginia–based partners or interests, can apply for the Social Science Research Council’s IAF Research Fellowship Program; awards US $20,000 for twelve months of rigorous field-based research on community development, resilience, and related social and environmental issues.

The Harry Chapin Foundation grants support 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S. focused on self-sufficiency. They prioritize grassroots programs in the arts, community education, and environmental sectors, with a budget cap of $750,000. Grants are typically awarded for one year, with renewals requiring a new proposal each year. Organizations using fiscal agents or applying for individuals are not eligible. The foundation is dedicated to improving lives through sustainable initiatives.

The USA Dry Pea and Lentil Council (USADPLC) invites research proposals for pulse crops, focusing on breeding, nutrition, crop management, and product development for the 2023-24 fiscal year. Projects should adopt a transdisciplinary approach to tackle complex challenges, with average awards around $30,000. Researchers are encouraged to leverage industry funding for matching grants. Note that equipment purchases over $10,000 are not eligible. Compliance with specific proposal guidelines is essential.

The LFF: Nature-Based Climate Action Grant aims to support initiatives that leverage natural systems to combat climate change. By funding projects focused on tree planting, prairie restoration, and carbon sequestration, the program seeks to engage communities and enhance understanding of climate challenges. Ideal applicants include rural organizations working to create measurable environmental impacts while fostering collaboration and policy change. This grant represents an opportunity for organizations ready to take significant strides in addressing the climate crisis.

The Regenerative Agriculture Foundation Grant supports organizations that promote regenerative practices, emphasizing the value of people, plants, animals, and the planet. With a focus on BIPOC-led initiatives, the foundation encourages systemic change in agricultural systems through collaborative funding. Grants are available to U.S.-based organizations that align with RAF's vision and engage in transformative efforts. The competitive grantmaking process is by invitation only, ensuring targeted support for impactful projects.

The Anderson-Rogers Foundation Grant supports U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations focused on environmental protection, animal welfare, climate change mitigation, and social support. Established in 2001, this family foundation prioritizes innovative projects and general operating support for small organizations facing financial constraints. Note that applicants must first submit a letter of inquiry, as the foundation does not fund scholarships or grants to individuals or religious organizations, nor does it support organizations outside the U.S.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

The ASPCA Fund to End Factory Farming Grant Program aims to transform the U.S. food system by promoting humane practices and reducing reliance on factory farming. By funding eligible projects, the program seeks to improve animal welfare, support farmers, and enhance public health. Projects must include educational components to raise awareness about their impact. This initiative reflects ASPCA's commitment to ethical treatment of animals and fostering a culture of compassion and inclusion.