Brighter Future Fund Disburses $700,000 to Farmers and Ranchers

American Farmland Trust (AFT) announced that it disbursed more than $700,000 to 139 farmers across the United States through this year’s Brighter Future Fund. The Brighter Future Fund, established in 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, was created to help farmers navigate a variety of challenges, from market volatility to climate impacts, while supporting greater equity and opportunities for all in agriculture. More than half of the grants went to beginning farmers, with 30% being under 34 years of age. In addition, more than 60% of those awarded identified as women. Grants were awarded to help these farmers invest in professional services, vital equipment, and infrastructure with a special emphasis on improving farm viability, accessing farmland, and adopting regenerative agricultural practices. In addition, through H-E-B’s Spirit of Giving Fund, additional grants were made available to farmers and ranchers affected by the historic Smokehouse Creek Fire in the Texas Panhandle. These crucial funds will allow farmers to rebuild and replace vital infrastructure, equipment, cattle, and more that were destroyed in the early 2024 wildfires.