The Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) is rolling out new online tools to assist service members and veterans who aim to trade in their uniforms for overalls. Launched on their website, the newly minted Military Veteran Farmers page provides a slew of resources tailored to those with military backgrounds looking to break ground in agriculture. According to the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, the page offers "step-by-step guidance on how to start or expand an agricultural operation, access grants and funding, and connect with support networks across Tennessee."
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture's initiative comes with an assortment of tools, including business development advice and permitting guidance. Designed to streamline the process for veterans, these resources include direct links to partner organizations that are geared towards supporting their agricultural ambitions. Agriculture Commissioner Andy Holt, touched by the sacrifice made by service members, told the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, “These resources are designed to make it easier for veterans to build meaningful careers in agriculture,” emphasizing the state's commitment to helping them "find success in Tennessee’s diverse agricultural industry."
There's more to these initiatives than just a webpage; the Tennessee Department of Agriculture plans to host a free webinar on November 6th from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Central. Veterans and active service members interested in agriculture will have the opportunity to delve into the world of Tennessee farming, with introductions to the Homegrown by Heroes program and various state initiatives tailored to their needs. Experts and partners working with veteran producers will provide insights, including but not limited to Tennessee AgrAbility Program Coordinator Eileen Legault and Farmer Veteran Coalition of Tennessee President Ron Bridges.
Key programs such as the Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program, Agricultural Enterprise Fund, and AgTrack will also be under discussion during the online event, providing information on cost-share and grant opportunities that are key to supporting both budding and established agricultural ventures. Registration for the upcoming webinar, which is open to all interested parties, can be found online at the Tennessee Department of Agriculture Business Development Webinar page. Addressing the importance of these grant programs, Charley Jordan, the Tennessee AgVOLs Coordinator, mentioned how they were integral in "support new and established agricultural operations."
