UC SAREP Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems Small Grants Program FAQs

Small Grant Program Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of this small grants program?

The program aims to support development of sustainable community food systems and environmentally-sound and economically viable farming enterprises in California. We are interested in projects that build the capacity of farming and food systems businesses and organizations to become reflective, adaptive learning organizations that can respond effectively to ecological, economic, and social change and disruption.

How many grants are available, and how much funding will each project receive?

We typically award 7-8 grants. Individual grants are limited to a maximum of $10,000, with one Applied Research Grant awarded up to $20,000. Funding is for a 12-month project period from May 1, 2026 to April 30, 2027.

How competitive is the grant program?

The grant program is becoming increasingly competitive. Over the last three years of the grant program, we awarded approximately 22% of applications received.

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligible applicants include:

  • farm or food system businesses operating in California (business applicants must demonstrate the proposed project will provide a benefit that extends beyond the individual business or grant recipient),
  • non-profit, tax-exempt organizations operating in California,
  • state and local government agencies, Tribal governments, and
  • California public and private institutions of higher education

UC SAREP statewide staff are NOT eligible to apply for or participate on the team of any project. County-based staff or academics working for the UC Organic Agriculture Institute, UC Master Food Preservers, and UC Small Farms Network are eligible to apply. 

Can I apply with a partner or as a collaborative project?

Yes, collaborative projects are encouraged. Applicants must demonstrate meaningful collaboration and involvement of stakeholders in the design and execution of the project. Priority is also given to projects that foster cross-collaborations between multiple types of applicants. One organization or individual must serve as the project director and fiscal sponsor.

Can I submit more than one application?

No, only one application per project director is allowed. 

Can I apply if I received funding in a previous cycle?

Yes. Previous grantees are eligible to apply if they have submitted a final report for their previously funded project and are in good standing with the grant program. There must be at least one full project period between the end of their last grant and the start of the proposed new project. Previous grantees must have completed their earlier project and show how the new project builds on or differs from past work.

Should I provide letters of support from stakeholder and collaborators?

Yes. Letters of support from stakeholders demonstrate your project has community backing in addressing needs and shows that the project has a greater chance of meaningful impact. Stakeholder letters should include: 

  • The background of the person/organization signing
  • The nature of the relationship/partnership between the person signing and the grant applicant
  • Connection between the person/organization signing and the communities being served by the project
  • Why the person signing thinks the project is needed and important

Letters of support from project partners are required and should state how the collaborator/organization will participate in the project.

When is the application deadline?

All applications must be submitted by Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at 5:00 PM Pacific Time. Late submissions will not be considered.

How do I apply?

Applicants must submit the following:

  • Completed online application form
  • Detailed project proposal that includes a cover page and the body of proposal
  • Budget spreadsheet

Apply online at: UC SAREP Small Grants Application 2026-2027

When will award decisions be announced?

We expect that successful applicants will be notified of awards in March 2026, and funds will be available on May 1, 2026.

Where can I find examples of past funded projects?

See the Small Grants Program 2026-2027 RFP for summarized descriptions of past projects and the UC SAREP Small Grant Program webpage for select highlighted previous projects.

Who can I contact with questions?

Please contact Kristen Farrar at kfarrar@ucanr.edu or (530) 786-0390 with questions about the Small Grants Program or the application process.