Open Call: Fund-a-Farmer Welfare Improvement Grants (US)

The Food Animal Concerns Trust (FACT) invites applications for its 2027 Fund-a-Farmer Grants, supporting farmers dedicated to high welfare animal farming. This year, FACT offers two distinct grant opportunities: Welfare Improvement Grants and Systems Change and Innovation Grants. The application period opens on 1 November 2026, and deadlines vary by grant type. Opportunity at a Glance

- Provider: Food Animal Concerns Trust (FACT)

- Opportunity Type: Grant

- Funding Amounts: Up to $3,500 for Welfare Improvement Grants; up to $10,000 for Systems Change and Innovation Grants

- Eligible Applicants: Farmers in the United States focusing on high welfare animal farming

- Deadline: Welfare Improvement Grants close after 300 eligible applications; Systems Change and Innovation Grants close 10 January 2027, 11:59 PM ET

- Project Duration: Projects must be completed by 1 June 2028

About the Opportunity

FACT’s Fund-a-Farmer Grants aim to support projects that enhance the welfare of farm animals. The Welfare Improvement Grants target specific projects to improve the living conditions and welfare standards of farm animals. The Systems Change and Innovation Grants focus on transformative changes in farming practices, such as infrastructure development for pasture-based systems and the adoption of alternative breeds. Funding and Benefits - Welfare Improvement Grants: Up to $3,500 each for approximately 60 projects. These grants support initiatives that improve animal welfare conditions, such as transitioning to pasture-based systems and maintaining animal welfare certifications. - Systems Change and Innovation Grants: Four grants of up to $10,000 each for projects facilitating major changes in farming systems, like converting to pasture-based operations or adopting alternative breeds. Who Is Eligible? Eligible applicants are farmers within the United States dedicated to high welfare animal farming. Specific eligibility includes: - Farmers aiming to improve animal welfare or those pursuing or maintaining animal welfare certifications. - Farmers interested in converting operations to pasture-based systems or adopting alternative breeds. Eligible Activities or Priority Areas - Improvement of farm animal living conditions. - Transition to or maintenance of pasture-based systems. - Projects that support animal welfare certifications such as Certified Animal Welfare Approved, Certified Humane, or Global Animal Partnership (GAP) steps 4 to 5+. - System changes like infrastructure development or adopting new breeds. Why This Opportunity Matters This opportunity supports farmers committed to ethical farming practices by providing financial assistance to improve animal welfare and implement innovative farming systems. It encourages sustainable farming practices and promotes higher welfare standards, benefiting animal welfare and farm productivity. How to Apply

- Review Eligibility and Guidelines: Visit the official FACT website to understand the specific requirements and criteria for each grant type.

- Prepare Your Application: Gather necessary information and documents, including project details and any relevant certifications.

- Submit Application: Apply through the FACT website. Ensure applications for Welfare Improvement Grants are submitted early due to the 300-application cap. Systems Change and Innovation Grant applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM ET on 10 January 2027.

- Await Notification: Awardees will be announced by the end of February 2027, with funds dispersed in March 2027.

Application Tips or Common Mistakes

- Start Early: Ensure ample time to gather required documentation and complete the application.

- Clear Project Description: Clearly outline the project goals, expected outcomes, and how it aligns with grant objectives.

- Check Eligibility: Verify that you meet all eligibility requirements before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions What is the maximum funding amount for each grant? Welfare Improvement Grants offer up to $3,500, and Systems Change and Innovation Grants offer up to $10,000. When is the application deadline? Welfare Improvement Grants close once 300 eligible applications are received. Systems Change and Innovation Grants close on 10 January 2027, at 11:59 PM ET. Can I apply for both grant types? Yes, you can apply for both grants, but you will receive funding for only one. What types of projects are eligible for funding? Projects focused on improving animal welfare, transitioning to pasture-based systems, or adopting alternative breeds are eligible. How are the grants funded? Grants are underwritten by organizations like ASPCA and Food:Land:Opportunity, with additional support from FACT supporters. Next Steps Eligible farmers are encouraged to visit the FACT website to review the official guidelines and apply for the Fund-a-Farmer Grants. Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria and submit your application within the specified deadlines.