Best Organic Farming and Agriculture Grants in Pennsylvania

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 researchers, educators, and service providers partnering with commercial farmers in Pennsylvania can seek Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education’s Partnership Grants, offering up to US $30,000 for sustainable agriculture projects. Funding supports on-farm research, education, demonstrations, and new management or community approaches that improve production, marketing, or farmer and community well-being in Northeast farming systems.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and research institutions working on pollinator health and sustainable agriculture in Pennsylvania can seek up to US $75,000 for research, education, advocacy, and capacity-building projects. With a mission to promote pollinator health and ecologically responsible agriculture, One Hive Foundation also supports work across the broader U.S. and Canada.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3), (4), (6), or (19) nonprofits with at least $250K in annual revenue can seek US $50,000 - US $400,000 for sustainability projects benefiting communities in Pennsylvania. Grants from Green Mountain Energy help fund renewable energy, energy efficiency, resource conservation, and sustainable agriculture initiatives that demonstrate strong environmental, social, and financial impacts.

Agricultural producers, non-industrial private forest landowners, Tribes, and water management entities in Pennsylvania can receive funding to implement conservation practices on working lands. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service of Pennsylvania’s EQIP program supports sustainable agriculture, organic and transitioning operations, energy efficiency, water and air quality, soil health, wildlife habitat, and climate-resilient farming systems.

Agricultural producers and farmland owners in Pennsylvania can receive funding to implement sustainable agriculture and natural resource conservation practices, with awards up to US $50,000. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service of Pennsylvania supports projects such as improved irrigation, water management, windbreaks, soil erosion control, integrated pest management, and transition to organic farming through the Agricultural Management Assistance program.

Pennsylvania sustainable agriculture and agroecology nonprofits can seek general operating support for regenerative and organic farming, climate justice, and healthy food access initiatives. Focused on grassroots organizations, Clif Family Foundation offers US $5,000 - US $50,000 grants, prioritizing 501(c)(3)s working primarily in the U.S. with strong community ties and budgets under $8MM.

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.

Individual researchers studying community-led sustainable agriculture and related development issues in Latin America, the Caribbean, or the U.S. can receive US $20,000 fellowships to conduct rigorous, field-based research. Social Science Research Council and the Inter-American Foundation support projects that collaborate with local organizations and address topics like economic opportunity, migration drivers, disaster resilience, and environmental protection, which may interest Pennsylvania agriculture researchers.

Graduate students conducting research in drinking water quality, environmental science, or public health can receive US $3,000 through the Dr. Philip C. Singer Scholarship from American Water Works Association. Those in Pennsylvania whose work touches water quality, sustainable agriculture, or related environmental challenges may be eligible if their research addresses current issues facing the water industry.

Nonprofit organizations and qualifying institutions working on sustainable agriculture, agroecology, and related conservation efforts in Pennsylvania can seek funding to support programs on private lands. Grants from Biophilia Foundation help Pennsylvania environmental and agricultural groups advance ecosystem restoration, restorative economies, and conservation policy, with typical first-time awards ranging from US $5,000 to US $25,000.

U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving veterans with projects in art, education, environment, family, or health can seek up to US $100,000 for new or expanding programs. With a mission to empower women’s collective giving, Impact100 Global Veterans provides funding for initiatives including sustainable agriculture and agroecology that benefit veterans, including those in Pennsylvania.

Nonprofits, individuals, and research institutions working on sustainable agriculture and animal welfare projects, including in Pennsylvania, can seek support from the Centre for Effective Altruism’s Animal Welfare Fund. With a mission to alleviate nonhuman animal suffering globally, it provides up to US $200,000 for advocacy, research, movement-building, and alternative protein initiatives.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and fiscally sponsored groups in Pennsylvania working on sustainable agriculture, agroecology, or broader food system transformation can apply for Stray Dog Institute’s grants, typically US $2,500 - US $10,000. Funding may be unrestricted or project-based for work on farmed animals, food justice, environmental advocacy, and related systemic change.

Nonprofit organizations in Pennsylvania working on health, hunger relief, or sustainable agriculture can apply for Herbert Foundation grants supporting medical research, education, prevention, treatment, and food access. Programs advancing sustainable agriculture, agroecology, agricultural education, or emergency and nutritional feeding efforts may be especially relevant for organic farming and agriculture initiatives.

Graduate-level plant science and sustainable agriculture researchers enrolled in U.S. PhD programs can access funding for field research and outreach through the Botany in Action Fellowship, including work connected to Pennsylvania. Grants from Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens provide US $6,000 plus travel and training to communicate research to public audiences.

Nonprofits, charities, and social enterprises in Canada or the U.S. advancing regenerative and sustainable agriculture can apply for One Young World’s Generation Regen Challenge, which offers up to US $200,000 for projects. Young leaders aged 18–35 in Pennsylvania and beyond may be eligible if their work supports soil health, biodiversity, animal welfare, or resilient local food systems.

With a mission to foster innovative sustainability initiatives, Wright Foundation for Sustainability and Innovation provides Pennsylvania sustainable agriculture and agroecology projects with support for regenerative farming practices. Eligible projects in the contiguous U.S., Puerto Rico, or Canada may focus on soil health, water quality, biodiversity, reduced fertilizer use, or lower methane and nitrous oxide emissions.

Nonprofit and regional agricultural organizations working on sustainable agriculture and soil health can access funding via the CA Department of Food and Agriculture’s Healthy Soils Program Block Grant. Focused on sustainable agriculture, this program offers up to US $200,000 to support outreach, technical assistance, and on-farm healthy soils practices, benefiting producers including those in Pennsylvania.

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.

The Lilah Hilliard Fisher Foundation Grant offers year-round funding for initiatives focused on regenerative agriculture and nutrition education, particularly in New York City and Litchfield County, Connecticut. Emphasizing support for human trafficking survivors, youth development, and social justice, the Foundation seeks projects that align with these priorities. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities, with some multi-year grants available. Notably, proposals outside the specified areas are by invitation only.

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 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 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 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 Foundation for Sustainability and Innovation Grant aims to support projects that promote environmental restoration, preservation, and education, with a focus on sustainable resource use and community development. This grant encourages innovative approaches that connect urban and rural settings, enhance biodiversity, and foster creativity in addressing societal challenges. Eligible applicants include IRS-designated non-profits that align with the foundation's vision. The foundation also supports small presses and periodicals that creatively address sustainability issues.

The Food and Farm Communications Fund's Wildseed Grants program supports grassroots organizations in the U.S. that aim to bring transformative change to food and agricultural systems. With grants ranging from $20,000 to $50,000 for one year, and up to $75,000 for two years, the program emphasizes strategic communications, community engagement, and racial equity. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with the Fund’s mission and have a revenue of less than $3 million.