Grant Programs

The South Dakota Ag Foundation provides two key programs to provide grant funding to demonstrate the importance of rural communities and the value of organizations that are working to improve rural life.

  • Building Rural Communities grant program

  • Ag Innovators Youth Education grant program

The Ag Foundation encourages South Dakotans to start thinking of projects in their schools and communities that can empower future agricultural leaders and professionals.

The next round of grant applications will be accepted starting January 1, 2026.

To date, the South Dakota Ag Foundation has awarded more than $300,000 in grant funding.


Building Rural Communities Grant

The Building Rural Communities grant program is for 4-H clubs, FFA chapters, and FCCLA chapters to support community improvement or public safety projects. Applications are limited to $750 per project. The next round of grant applications will be accepted starting January 1, 2026.


Ag Innovators Youth Education Grant

The Ag Innovators grant program supports public nonprofit organizations that implement or enhance agriculture education, innovation, and leadership development. Grant amounts may range from $500 to $10,000. The next round of grant applications will be accepted starting January 1, 2026.