News

Information meeting set to explain AgOptions grants

By Lightning Reports, Published: August 10, 2026

WNC Communities will host an information session in Mills River Monday to explain details of AgOptions grant program for the 2027 cycle.

The program continues its tradition of helping family farms in Western North Carolina strengthen their businesses through projects that increase efficiency, diversify income, improve profitability and support long-term sustainability.

The 2027 cycle is made possible through the continued support of the North Carolina Tobacco Trust Fund Commission. Grants of $10,000 will be awarded to eligible farm businesses for projects that strengthen or expand their operations.

Farmers interested in applying must contact their county Cooperative Extension Agent by Oct. 9 to discuss their proposed project. After making that contact, applicants must submit the required Intent to Apply form by Oct. 9 at https://go.ncsu.edu/wncagopt27. Completed hardcopy or digital applications must be received by 11:59 p.m. Nov. 9 to be considered for review. 

Applicants are strongly encouraged to attend one of the regional information sessions being offered in August and September. The first two sessions are scheduled for this week:

• Monday, Aug. 10, 4-6 p.m. Mountain Horticultural Crops Research & Extension Center, 455 Research Drive, Mills River
• Wednesday, Aug. 12, 6-8 p.m. Avery Community Center at Heritage Park, 661 Vale Road, Newland

Additional sessions will be held across the region through September. Full session details, eligibility requirements, application materials, and instructions are available at www.wncagoptions.org.

“Western North Carolina farmers have always shown extraordinary resilience, creativity, and determination,” said Jennifer Ferre, executive director of WNC Communities. “WNC AgOptions gives them practical resources to strengthen their businesses, adapt to changing conditions, and build a more sustainable future. When we invest in our farms, we invest in the strength of our rural communities and the region as a whole.”

Since 2004, WNC AgOptions has awarded more than 700 grants totaling nearly $4 million, creating real momentum in local agriculture. These investments have helped farms become more efficient, improve profitability, and support the local food economy.

WNC AgOptions grants reduce financial risk and provide practical support, enabling small family farms to pursue bold ideas and remain viable for future generations. The result is more local food, stronger rural economies, and a deeper connection to our region’s agricultural heritage.

“In the face of rising development pressures, grants like AgOptions are not just a financial lifeline in Western North Carolina," said Karen Blaedow, extension agent in Henderson County and chair of the WNC AgOptions Steering Committee. "They are an investment in the very identity of our region. They empower farmers to innovate, diversify, and adapt, ensuring that the rich agricultural heritage that defines our mountains remains a vibrant and resilient part of our future.” 

For more information, visit wncagoptions.org. Additional information is available from N.C. Cooperative Extension at www.ces.ncsu.edu, the N.C. Tobacco Trust Fund Commission at www.tobaccotrustfund.org, and WNC Communities at www.wnccommunities.org.