Beginning Farmer Resources

Would you like to farm but you aren’t sure where to start? The following resources may offer ideas and guidance as you consider your plan.
Please know that this list is by no means comprehensive. We encourage you to reach out to your local Extension office for educational opportunities.
Joining local ag-based organizations can also help you form connections with the farmers in your area.

Tennessee Department of Agriculture

• Business Development Division
  
• Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program
• Agricultural Enterprise Fund
• Pick Tennessee Products Application
• Farm Name Registration Application
• Plant Certification License Application
  
• Ag Use and Sales Tax Exemption
• Department of Revenue Updates 11.2022
  
  1. Tennessee Tax Manual for Farmers, Nursery Operators, and Timber Harvesters
  2. Sales & Use Tax - Farm Equipment and Machinery

United States Department of Agriculture

• Farmers.gov
• How to Start a Farm
  
• Rural Development Value Added Producer Grants
•  Farm Service Agency Beginning Farmer Loans
• Farm Service Agency Land Transition Incentive Program
• USDA Urban Agriculture Programs at a Glance 
• Agriculture Marketing Service National Organic Certification Cost Share Program
• Natural Resources Conservation Service Agricultural Conservation Easement Program
• Natural Resources Conservation Service Environmental Quality Incentives Program
• Natural Resources Conservation Service Conservation Stewardship Program

University of Tennessee & Tennessee State University Cooperative Extension

• Tennessee Beginning Farmer Outreach Program
• Find Your Local Extension Office
• Center for Profitable Agriculture
• Tennessee New Farmer Academy
• MANAGE Program
  
• Planning Today for Tomorrow's Farms
• Agritourism in Focus   

Other Resources

• Tennessee Agritourism Association
• TN Farm Link, connecting land seekers with landowners
• Farmer Veteran Coalition
• Farm Credit Farmer & Rancher Education