Caribbean Farmer Grants—Infrastructure

The Rural Advancement Foundation International-USA (RAFI-USA) offers the US Caribbean Farmer Grants—Infrastructure program to support farmers located in the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. RAFI-USA is a well-established nonprofit organization dedicated to cultivating agricultural ecosystems that prioritize equity, sustainability, and food sovereignty. This grant specifically focuses on providing critical infrastructure support to farmers who are working to enhance farm viability and sustainability while preserving cultural and traditional farming practices. The grant is open to both individual farm projects and collaborative initiatives such as cooperatives or groups of farms. The funding amount ranges from $5,000 to $10,000, with a strong emphasis on supporting projects that contribute to community food sovereignty and local food economies. Eligible projects must clearly demonstrate potential to increase on-farm sustainability, develop new markets or uses for existing resources, and apply agroecological or ancestral practices. Additionally, projects must include a community education component, such as peer knowledge exchanges or participation in educational events that benefit the broader farming network. To qualify, applicants must be farmers with at least three years of farming experience, including a minimum of two years at their current location. Only farmers located in the U.S. Virgin Islands or Puerto Rico are eligible. Importantly, applicants who have previously received RAFI Caribbean Infrastructure Grants between 2022 and 2025 are not eligible for this round. Nonprofit organizations are also ineligible. Collaboratives or cooperatives applying must ensure that at least half of their members meet the individual eligibility requirements. Applications for the 2026 cycle will open on February 23, 2026, and are due by March 23, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. Atlantic Time. All applications must be fully completed and submitted by the deadline to be considered. The application must include a detailed proposal, a quote for the proposed infrastructure project, and contact information for a reference. Applications are reviewed by an external committee composed of farmers and agricultural experts, and the review process typically takes two to three months. Funding decisions will be communicated via email to each applicant. Award announcements will also be made publicly through a press release and published on RAFI’s official website. No cost match is required for this funding opportunity, and applicants are encouraged to contact RAFI staff for assistance with the application process. Questions can be directed to Milexa Polanco at [email protected] or via phone/WhatsApp at 939.406.0113, referencing “Caribbean grant” in the subject line. RAFI explicitly states that external consultants are not necessary to complete the application, ensuring equitable access for all eligible farmers. The program is recurring, with a clear annual cycle. While there are no pre-application steps like letters of intent or concept papers, it is crucial to adhere to the application period. This cycle’s deadline and open date allow interested farmers ample time to prepare their materials. Given the emphasis on local food systems and culturally relevant practices, the RAFI Caribbean Infrastructure Grant represents a vital opportunity for farmers in these U.S. territories to expand their impact through sustainable and community-centered growth.

Do not hire a consultant; applications are evaluated for feasibility, sustainability impact, and cultural practice inclusion.