NEWS RELEASE: Maryland Department of Agriculture Launches New Grant Program to Boost Urban Agriculture and Community Gardens

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ANNAPOLIS, MD (June 15, 2026) ~ Annapolis, MD - The Maryland Department of Agriculture has announced the launch of a new grant program aimed at supporting the growth and development of urban farms and community gardens. This initiative, which was officially launched on June 15, 2026, aims to increase community access to fresh and healthy produce while promoting environmentally sustainable farming practices.

According to Maryland Secretary of Agriculture Kevin Atticks, urban farms and community gardens are playing a crucial role in transforming neighborhoods by providing fresh, locally grown food directly to the communities they serve. He believes that this program will not only invest in the innovation and dedication of urban growers but also expand access to nutritious food for all Marylanders, regardless of where they live.

The Urban Agriculture Grant Program is open to both startups and existing operations looking to expand. It covers a wide range of areas and needs including capital improvements such as refrigerated or dry storage, wash-and-pack stations, fencing, low tunnels, and more. The program also supports the adoption of safe and sustainable practices such as creating pollinator habitats, obtaining certification in Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), installing composting units, and developing nutrient management plans.

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In addition to these areas, the grant program also encourages innovative farming solutions such as rooftop gardens and controlled environment agriculture. Education programs focusing on composting, soil health, and sustainable farming practices are also eligible for funding. Furthermore, the program allows for grants to be used towards purchasing real property in urban areas (capped at 20% of the grant award) or covering certain operating expenses (capped at 15% of the grant award).

Individual growers, organized for-profit agricultural businesses, and non-profit organizations are invited to apply for grants during the annual open enrollment period from June 15 through July 24, 2026. However, it is important to note that the maximum funding per application is $10,000. To ensure immediate cash flow for growers, grants will be paid using a tiered payment schedule without the need for reimbursement.

To be eligible for these grants, applicants must produce a farm product that generates at least $1,000 in sales or donations annually. All grant recipients are also required to comply with local, state, and federal regulations and obtain any necessary permits for their projects. Eligibility for this grant is limited to operations located in urban areas as defined by the United States Census Bureau. An interactive map link is available on the Urban Agriculture Grants website to help determine if a property meets the location criteria.

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The Maryland General Assembly has approved up to $100,000 in annual funding for the Urban Agriculture Grant Program through Fiscal Year 2029. To provide more information and address any questions or concerns, a Q&A session will be held on June 25, 2026, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. ET. Interested parties can also contact Small Farm & Urban Agriculture Program Administrator Bill Tharpe at 410-980-6160.

For those looking for additional information about the program and how to apply, please visit the Urban Agriculture Grants website. With this new grant program in place, it is hoped that more urban farms and community gardens will continue to thrive and contribute to healthier communities across Maryland.

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