WNC AgOptions 2026 Grant Cycle Open
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WNC AgOptions intent to apply deadline Sept. 26, 2025; Application deadline Nov. 14, 2025.
Grants for family farms in 2026
After taking a year off due to the impacts of Tropical Storm Helene, WNC Communities is proud to announce that the WNC AgOptions program will return for the 2026 grant cycle. Launching August 1, the program continues its long tradition of helping family farms in Western North Carolina innovate, diversify, and grow.
The 2026 cycle is made possible through the generous and continued funding of the North Carolina Tobacco Trust Fund Commission (NCTTFC), whose commitment to supporting agriculture in the state remains unwavering. Thanks to the Commission’s renewed investment, the WNC AgOptions program is secured through 2027.
This year brings exciting changes. The 2026 grant awards have been increased to $10,000 per project. The program has also updated its eligibility requirements to give farmers greater long-term access to funding, making it possible for more farms to benefit over the life of their operations.
Applicants must contact their Cooperative Extension agents by Sept. 26 to set up an appointment to discuss their projects. Applications are available at WNC AgOptions or at local Cooperative Extension centers. Extension agents remain a resource for farmers throughout the year as they complete their projects.
To apply, farmers must complete an online Intent to Apply form by September 26, 2025. Applicants are also strongly encouraged to attend one of several regional information sessions being held in counties across WNC during August and September. There will be an information session on Tuesday, September 2, 2025 from 4:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. at the Mountain Horticultural Crops Research & Ext. Center in Mills River.
Sessions are also scheduled in Cleveland, Cherokee, Macon, Swain, Haywood, Burke, Watauga, Mitchell, and Avery Counties. For full details, including
dates, times, and locations, visit www.wncagoptions.org.
Since 2004, WNC AgOptions has awarded more than 700 grants totaling nearly $4 million, creating real momentum in local agriculture. These investments have helped farms become more efficient, improve profitability, and support the local food economy. WNC AgOptions grants reduce financial risk and provide practical support, enabling small family farms to pursue bold ideas and remain viable for future generations. The result is more local food, stronger rural economies, and a deeper connection to our region’s agricultural heritage.
WNC AgOptions offers grants to farmers in the following counties/units: Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Cherokee, Clay, Cleveland, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania, Watauga and Yancey counties as well as the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
For more information, see the following: