Free download
The small-farm funding checklist
The reusable readiness kit — do these once and you're set for conservation money, cost-share, loans, and grants alike.
Get the checklist
Enter your email and the checklist unlocks right here — no spam, one list.
- Get your FSA farm number at the local Service Center (bring ID, SSN or EIN, and a recorded deed or signed lease)
- Self-certify historically-underserved status if you're a beginning (10 yrs or less), limited-resource, or veteran farmer — it unlocks better terms
- Book a conservation plan visit with your local NRCS conservationist (step one for EQIP/CSP)
- If you're certified organic, apply for OCCSP before December 31, 2026 (75% back, up to $750/scope)
- Get on the EQIP/CSP list before your state's fall ranking cutoff (many land around October)
- File your annual acreage report to keep program eligibility current
- Register SAM.gov and get a UEI if you'll pursue VAPG or REAP (do it a month ahead)
- Run the Green-Light Test: is the money farmer-direct, are you eligible, is the cycle open?
- Run the Live-or-Dead Check on any program from a listicle — confirm on the funder's own current page
Most of this is a single trip to your USDA Service Center. Do it once and every application gets easier. Enter your email and the checklist unlocks right here.
Next step
Get matched when we launch
Stalwell is launching soon. Join the waitlist and we'll match your small farms to funding the day it opens — no spam, one email.