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Agriculture

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Golden LEAF supports agriculture projects as an economic development engine. Our grants for agriculture projects have supported the development of new crops, expanded markets for agriculture products, scientific research, training for farmers, cost-effective techniques and value-added agricultural enterprises.

Projects awarded in this priority area will gather data to support outcomes including:

  • Number of participants at agricultural trainings
  • New publications directed towards farmers
  • Monthly use of agricultural facilities that benefit farmers
  • As well as narrative outcomes including: jobs, revenue growth, new agricultural business formations, economic output, changes in agricultural practices; acres in production; new crops/products grown or produced; and other measures of agriculture projects.

Current Funding Opportunity

Open Grants Program

News

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Building Agricultural Career Pathways Across Eastern North Carolina

As North Carolina agriculture faces workforce shortages and an aging labor force, educational institutions are working together to create stronger pathways from high school classrooms to agricultural careers. The University of Mount Olive (UMO) has developed a network of agricultural academies that allow high school students to earn college credit, explore career options and gain hands-on experience before graduation. Through partnerships with public schools, private schools and community colleges, the program helps students move seamlessly from education into the workforce.
June 9, 2026
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Ashe County Agricultural Center supports farmers, agribusiness, and the next generation of agriculture

For years, Ashe County farmers lacked a centralized facility where they could market livestock, host agricultural events, and provide hands-on learning opportunities for young people interested in agriculture. Today, the Ashe County Agricultural Center is helping fill that gap while strengthening the local agricultural industry and creating new economic opportunities for businesses, commodity groups, nonprofit organizations, and future farmers. The Ashe County Agriculture Foundation committee handles the day-to-day operations of the facility. Judy Bare, member of the Ashe County Agriculture Foundation committee, says the committee meets at least once a month to go over planned events and other aspects of the center.
June 9, 2026
Critical Conversations (86)

Golden LEAF Critical Conversations podcast: The Future of Farmland in North Carolina 

The latest episode of Golden LEAF Critical Conversations with President, Chief Executive Officer Scott T. Hamilton explores one of the most significant challenges facing North Carolina agriculture: the loss of farmland and what it means for the state’s economy, food systems, and future growth.
June 8, 2026