New Matched Savings Program!

Ithaca, NY– Groundswell Center for Local Food & Farming is offering an Ag-Individual Development Account (IDA) Matched Savings Program, in collaboration with Alternatives Federal Credit Union (AFCU). Groundswell Center’s Ag-IDA program offers a 3:1 match on savings from $250-$1,000 over 7-13 months to individuals from marginalized groups looking to start-up or expand an agricultural business.

To be eligible to participate:

• Be a “socially disadvantaged” aspiring or existing farmer as defined by the USDA:  “a farmer or rancher who has been subjected to racial or ethnic prejudice because of their identity as a member of a group without regard to their individual qualities.”
  • (including, first generation immigrant, refugee, Black, Latinx, Indigenous, or Person of Color)

• Fall within specific limited income guidelines

• Meet education requirements:
  • Complete Groundswell Center’s Farm Business Planning Course or AFCU’s Money Wise or Money Smart Course and
  • Complete a 30-minute pre-application screening with Groundswell’s Farm Business Coordinator

• Live in Cortland, Seneca, Schuyler, or Tompkins County

For Details and To Apply: groundswellcenter.org/ag-ida

    

 Funding available through our partnership with Alternative Federal Credit Union & USDA Office of Advocacy and Outreach 2501 Grant Program.