Application Deadline:
January 3, 2026
About Organisation
The Food Animal Concerns Trust (FACT) is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization committed to improving the welfare of farm animals through education, advocacy, and direct farmer support. FACT empowers farmers to implement humane, sustainable, and pasture-based livestock practices that benefit both animals and agricultural communities. Over the years, FACT has supported hundreds of independent farms through grants, training, and technical assistance—helping them enhance animal well-being, business resilience, and environmental stewardship. The organization promotes transparency, responsible farming systems, and the transition away from industrial confinement models. FACT’s initiatives encourage collaboration, research, and innovative solutions to build a food system rooted in compassion and sustainability.
About the Grant
The Fund-a-Farmer Systems Change and Innovation Grant provides transformative financial support to farms in the U.S. that are transitioning toward higher-welfare, pasture-based production systems. Administered by FACT, this grant empowers farms to implement forward-looking strategies that promote animal welfare, environmental balance, and business viability. The 2026 program will award two grants of $10,000 each to farms evaluating, planning, or executing major system upgrades. Eligible projects include feasibility studies, infrastructure improvements, or business planning for converting confinement-based operations to pasture-raised systems. The grant also supports the adoption of heritage breeds better suited to outdoor conditions and the development of cooperative marketing efforts among farms. By integrating welfare standards, innovation, and sustainability, this initiative fosters lasting, systemic change in U.S. agriculture—building stronger local economies, resilient food networks, and ethical production practices.
Who can Apply?
The grant is open to U.S.-based farms that are ready to make significant progress toward establishing or expanding pasture-based, humane animal production systems. Eligible applicants include independently operated farms raising livestock such as poultry, pigs, or cattle, with a demonstrated commitment to higher-welfare standards. Applicants should be at a stage where they are prepared to evaluate, plan, or implement major operational transitions. Examples include assessing land use for rotational grazing, developing feasibility or business plans, or installing necessary infrastructure such as fencing, shelters, or water systems. Farms already engaged in humane animal care practices that seek to innovate or expand their efforts are especially encouraged to apply. The program also welcomes collaborative applications from groups of farmers seeking to develop shared marketing channels, branding initiatives, or distribution systems that increase the visibility of pasture-raised products. Applicants must demonstrate both the feasibility of their proposed projects and the long-term impact on animal welfare and farm sustainability.
How to Apply?
Interested farms can apply directly through the Food Animal Concerns Trust’s online application portal. Applicants must outline their project objectives, proposed activities, and anticipated impact on animal welfare and farm systems. Submissions should include supporting documentation such as budgets, timelines, and feasibility details. FACT’s review panel will evaluate proposals based on innovation, sustainability, and readiness for implementation.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the Fund-a-Farmer Systems Change and Innovation Grant is January 3, 2026. Early submissions are encouraged to ensure adequate review and consideration.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
