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Barbara A. Wolford Farming Operation Grant Barbara A. Wolford Farming Operation Grant

Barbara Wolford spent her career as a bookkeeper, most recently at banks in Beverly and Lincoln, but she loved farming and the rural lifestyle, which is why she established a grant fund meant to help young farmers with limited means get their start in agriculture.

The Wolford Farming Operations grant is intended to help young farmers in the Post Rock Community Foundation service area–the communities that make up the USD #298 and #299 school districts–get a leg up toward their dream of growing a career in agriculture.

Purpose

The purpose of the farming operation grant program is to assist young or beginning farmers in starting or expanding farming operations.

Program Goals

  • Provide financial assistance to young and beginning farmers with limited resources
  • Promote the growth and sustainability of agriculture in the Post Rock area
  • Contribute to the economic development and vitality of our communities

Who can apply?

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Be 18 years or older
  • Have no more than 10 years of experience operating a farm or ranch
  • Substantially participates in the operation
  • Reside and operate in the Post Rock Community Foundation service area defined as Lincoln County, Kansas, and communities served by USD 298 and USD 299.

Note: All grant funds for this program will be distributed through the Lincoln County Economic Development Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity.

What Qualifies as a Farming Operation?

Farming operations are broadly defined to include activities involved in the production of agricultural goods, including but not limited to growing crops, raising livestock, and processing and marketing farm products.

Ineligible Use of Funds

Grant funds may not be used for:

  • Hobby farming, a small-scale farm that is primarily for pleasure instead of being a business venture.
  • Farming operations outside of the Post Rock Community Foundation service area
  • Retirement of debt
  • Political lobbying or projects of any kind
  • Operations that practice discrimination of any kind

Grant Award Amounts

  • Grants up to $50,000 may be awarded.
  • A grant may not be awarded during every cycle.

Application Timeline

Grant applications may be accepted two times a year through our online application portal:

  • August 1-October 1
  • March 1-May 1

Applicants will be notified about the status of their grant application within 30-45 days of the grant deadline. Interviews may be requested as part of the review process.