By Blake Jackson
The Kentucky Agricultural Development Board has approved a total of $2,368,905 to support a range of agricultural diversification and rural development efforts throughout the Commonwealth. The funding was authorized during the board’s monthly meeting on Friday, reflecting continued investment in strengthening Kentucky’s farm economy.
"A thriving agricultural community is achieved through a rich diversification of agricultural products," Commissioner of Agriculture and Board Chair Jonathan Shell said. "The Kentucky Agricultural Development Board is working to create greater diversification through projects like those approved today. The work the board does strengthens the fabric of our farms, our farm families, and our state.”
County and State Investments
Several statewide initiatives received significant support. The Kentucky Community and Technical College System Foundation, Inc. was awarded up to $63,200 in state funds to expand a specialized certification program aimed at building a skilled workforce for meat processing facilities. Individuals seeking more details may contact Emily Sayers at emily.sayers@kctcs.edu.
Kentucky State University will receive up to $1,400,000 over two years to continue its KSU Mini-Grant Program, which provides important financial support to producers across Kentucky. For inquiries, contact Dorothy Daley at dorothy.daley@kysu.edu.
Additionally, the University of Kentucky Research Foundation secured up to $181,952 over one year to enhance the state’s Viticulture and Enology Extension Program, which aids Kentucky’s growing grape and wine sector. For more information, contact Patsy Wilson at patsy.wilson@uky.edu.
County-Level Programs
The board also approved funding through several county-based programs designed to expand opportunities for producers of all ages.
The County Agricultural Incentives Program (CAIP), which offers cost-share assistance to help farmers strengthen and diversify their operations, received a combined $606,490 across six counties: Boone ($117,046), Fleming ($200,000), Hardin ($100,000), Jessamine ($70,000), Menifee ($81,644), and Nicholas ($37,800).
To further support young producers, a Next Generation Farmer Program (NextGen) approval totaling $30,000 was directed to Fleming County. This program targets individuals ages 18-40 with a minimum of three years of farm experience.
The Shared-Use Equipment Program awarded $26,063 in Barren County to improve equipment access for local producers.
Lastly, the Youth Agricultural Incentives Program (YAIP) received a total of $61,200, benefiting Fleming ($25,000), Nicholas ($21,200), and Wayne ($15,000) counties. These funds encourage youth involvement in agriculture and skill-building.
Local announcements will provide application deadlines for CAIP, YAIP, and NextGen opportunities.
Photo Credit: kentucky-agricultural-board
Categories: Kentucky, Government & Policy