Lamp beginning and socially disadvantaged farmers or ranchers – mandatory

Stone Ledge Cider, LLC received a $250,000 Project Grant award from Rural Business Cooperative Services under the Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Program (FMLFPP), CFDA 10.175, effective September 18, 2025, with an ultimate completion date of September 18, 2027. This award falls under the Beginning and Socially Disadvantaged Farmers or Ranchers grant track, which supports eligible agricultural businesses in developing and expanding direct producer-to-consumer markets and local food business enterprises.

Under this two-year grant, Stone Ledge Cider will implement projects designed to develop, coordinate, and expand local and regional food systems. The specific products or services to be delivered through this funding are not detailed in the award notice; however, consistent with FMLFPP program parameters, the company may pursue value-added product development, marketing strategies, food safety improvements, regional food chain coordination, or direct-to-consumer sales initiatives through farmers markets, agritourism activities, or online channels. The grant requires a 25 percent matching funds contribution and is subject to standard federal compliance and audit requirements applicable to projects of this funding level.