Farmland Action Plan Briefing

Cultivate Small Business Program

Healthy Incentives Program

On January 10, 2024, the Joint Committee on Agriculture, in partnership with the Food System Caucus and the Special Commission on Agriculture in the 21st Century, hosted a special briefing at the Massachusetts State Hose to review the details of MA Farmland Action Plan released by MDAR.

A program designed to help early-stage food entrepreneurs build and sustain their businesses, with a focus on women-. minority-, and immigrant-owned businesses in food-relate industries. The program is completely free to the entrepreneurs and runs from January 2020 to April 2020. In-class sessions taught by Babson, industry mentors, and small capital grants.

The program is conducted through Santander, if you would like to apply please review the application here.

You can use your SNAP benefits to buy fruits and vegetables from a HIP authorized farm or vendor. You will receive $1 for each dollar you spend on eligible fruits and vegetables, up to a monthly limit. You can earn HIP incentives at participating agricultural retailers.

Please visit mass.gov for additional information.

SNAP (FOOD STAMPS)

Applications for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly knows as food stamps, can be submitted online through the Department of Transitional Assistance. SNAP provides assistance to families and individuals on a limited income afford groceries and food shopping.

Please visit mass.gov for additional information

Agricultural Preservation Restriction (APR)

Food Policy Council: Building a Sustainable Food System

Food Security Infrastructure Grant Program

The Agricultural Preservation Restriction (APR) is a voluntary program conducted through the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources. The program offers a non-development alternative to farmers who are faced with a decision regarding future use of their farms.

Please visit mass.gov for additional information.

Looking to be more involved in advocating for your local food system? Look inside this report published by the Massachusetts Food Policy Council to learn about what you do.

The Food Security Infrastructure Grant (FSIG) Program is a administered by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA). The program seeks to ensure that farmers, fisherman and other local food producers are better connected to a strong, resilient food system to help mitigate future food supply and distribution disruption.

For more information on recent awards or how to apply, click here.