Applications Open for FarmPath Program Supporting Beginning Farmers

National initiative aims to lower barriers and expand opportunities for aspiring and new farmers

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

South Dakota State University is releasing a new hard red winter wheat variety, SD Vivian, that combines high yield with high protein and drought tolerant traits. Applications are now open for FarmPath, a national, multi-year initiative designed to make farming more accessible and achievable for aspiring and beginning farmers across the United States through hands-on education, mentorship, and professional networking.

Why it matters

The FarmPath program is a direct investment in cultivating the next generation of farmers who will be prepared to meet the challenges facing American agriculture. By providing practical training, business support, and financial assistance, the program aims to lower the barriers that often prevent new entrants from successfully starting and sustaining farming operations.

The details

FarmPath is a free, three-year program that offers participants practical instruction in resilient agriculture practices and farm management, as well as in-depth training on the broader systems, markets, and decision-making strategies that influence long-term farm success. Participants also gain access to experienced mentors and connect with a national network of professionals working across food and agriculture sectors. The program includes structured business training and up to $10,000 in implementation funding to help participants put their learnings into practice.

  • Applications for the FarmPath program are now open.
  • The new SD Vivian wheat variety will be available for farmers for fall 2026 planting.

The players

South Dakota State University

A public research university that is releasing a new high-yielding, high-protein, and drought-tolerant hard red winter wheat variety called SD Vivian.

Farm Foundation

The organization behind the FarmPath program, which is a national, multi-year initiative aimed at lowering barriers and expanding opportunities for aspiring and beginning farmers across the United States.

Shari Rogge-Fidler

The president and CEO of Farm Foundation, who stated that FarmPath is the organization's direct investment in a new generation of farmers prepared to meet the current challenges in American agriculture.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Through structured business training, mentorship, professional networks, and up to $10,000 in implementation funding, FarmPath is Farm Foundation's direct investment in a new generation of farmers prepared to meet this moment in American agriculture.”

— Shari Rogge-Fidler, President and CEO, Farm Foundation (americanagnetwork.com)

What’s next

The online application for the FarmPath program is available at FarmPath.org, and additional information on eligibility requirements can be found there as well.

The takeaway

The FarmPath program represents a significant effort to address the barriers that often prevent new entrants from successfully starting and sustaining farming operations, by providing practical training, business support, and financial assistance to aspiring and beginning farmers across the United States.