What Can Be Funded

Types of funded projects

Professional Development projects can cover a wide range of topics--recently SARE has funded training in ecological weed management, labor, whole-farm nutrient planning, tillage, season extension, carbon trading, and the needs of new farmers, among other things.

In the course of these projects SARE funds have also been used to produce books, videos, webcasts, and other media tools to improve participants' understanding of sustainable techniques.

Focus of funded projects

Whatever the topic, the project outcome must focus on training extension and NRCS staff, agricultural consultants, and other service providers who work directly with farmers and advise them on their farm and business practices.

Professional Development projects should openly seek a cascade effect so that the people who took the training are positioned to teach others.

Funded project examples

A list of recent Professional Development projects will help clarify how this grant program works.