Description:
The Massachusetts Society for Promoting Agriculture provides grants (and on occasion, loans and investment funding) to enterprises that, in the judgment of the Trustees of the Society, will promote agriculture in Massachusetts. The Society was founded in 1792, and for over 200 years has supported projects that:
- will benefit agriculture practiced in Massachusetts in a manner that is both economically and environmentally sound;
- will broaden the knowledge of and support for farmers and farming in Massachusetts;
- would not be likely to receive funding from federal or corporate sources, but where a grant from the society would enhance the chance of such funding by way of matching grants; and
- would stimulate research in new areas.
Areas of current interest have focused on sustainable agriculture, including integrated pest management, projects that directly benefit the farming community, and projects that carry the ancillary benefits such as preserving farmland and open space. Other projects that have recently received support include unique marketing ideas and education programs to encourage consumer awareness of Massachusetts farm products. Grant range $500-$25,000. |