If you’ve been looking for an opportunity to finally start that farm, vineyard, orchard or ranch you’ve dreamed of, AgWest Farm Credit may be able to help it come true. 

The agriculture-focused cooperative lending group recently launched the application window for its New Producer Grant program, which provides successful applicants $15,000, as well as educational support and mentoring to support their agricultural ventures. 

“We’re committed to championing agriculture by empowering the next generation of producers,” said Bill Perry, AgWest’s president and CEO, in a release. “Through programs like the New Producer Grant, we foster innovation, growth and a pathway to long-term success for aspiring farmers and ranchers." 

Applicants must have no more than two years of full-time or part-time experience in agricultural operations, or have plans to start an operation within two years of applying for the grant; have an operation located within the credit cooperative’s service area; not be a current AgWest lending customer; be 18 years old or older and be either a U.S. citizen or a foreign national with lawful permanent residency. 

Applications are available online and applicants must provide a business plan, cash flow budget and a one-page essay describing how the grant would assist them. Three recorded webinars covering financial statement basics also must be viewed by applicants. 

Deadline to apply is May 31.  

AgWest maintains a Tri-Cities office at 9915 St. Thomas Drive in Pasco.