What's Happening?
Farm Credit of the Virginias (FCV), a lending cooperative serving Virginia, West Virginia, and western Maryland, has announced the opening of applications for the second round of its Agricultural Career Enhancement (ACE) grant program. The program aims to support agricultural career development at postsecondary institutions within FCV's territory. Grants of up to $10,000 will be awarded to agriculture-related programs, excluding individuals, private farms, cooperative extensions, or agricultural research programs. Applications are open from August 1, 2025, to September 30, 2025, with awards announced in November 2025.
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Why It's Important?
The ACE grant program is significant as it invests in the future of agriculture by supporting educational institutions that train the next generation of agricultural professionals. This initiative helps strengthen agriculture-related programs, which are crucial for bolstering the rural economy in the regions served by FCV. By providing financial support, FCV is contributing to the development of skilled professionals who can address the challenges facing the agriculture industry, thereby enhancing the quality of life in rural communities.
What's Next?
FCV will review applications and award grants in November 2025. The program's success could lead to further rounds of funding, encouraging more institutions to develop robust agricultural programs. Stakeholders in the agriculture sector may respond positively, potentially increasing collaboration between educational institutions and the industry to address workforce needs.
