2026 Large Grant Question and Answer Sessions

Nearly seven million dollars in funding is now available for sustainable agriculture projects taking place in the Northeast beginning in 2026.

Four Northeast SARE programs have released calls for proposals for projects beginning in 2026. The Farming Community, Professional Development, Research & Education, and Research for Novel Approaches Calls for Proposals have been updated for the 2026 grant cycle, including a reduced page count to make the application process even simpler.

By law, projects that Northeast SARE funds must help improve farming in at least one of the following ways:

1. Maintain and enhance the quality and productivity of the soil;

2. Conserve soil, water, energy, natural resources, and fish and wildlife habitat;

3. Maintain and enhance the quality of surface and ground water;

4. Protect the health and safety of persons involved in the food and farm system;

5. Promote the wellbeing of animals; and

6. Increase employment opportunities in agriculture.

These goals come from the federal legislation that guides all Northeast SARE grants. Every proposal must show how it supports one or more of these priorities.

Northeast SARE staff concluded their Q&A sessions on the four large grant programs: Farming Community, Professional Development, Research & Education, and Research for Novel Approaches. 

Here is a copy of the presentation shared.

Recordings of the sessions and a list of all of the questions and answers are available below.