WNC AgOptions builds sustainable farming communities in our mountain region by providing cash grants directly to farmers who are diversifying or expanding, with the goal of preserving mountain farmland by supporting the longevity of farm enterprises. Priority is given to farmers with tobacco history. In 2026, grants of $10,000 are available to farmers located within a 22-county area of Western North Carolina

AgOptions staff are holding informational meetings throughout August and September to discuss the 2026 WNC AgOptions grant program, application timeline, and answer questions. Dates and locations for all of the meetings are posted on the AgOptions website.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to attend, and these sessions are particularly helpful for first-time applicants. In order to ensure that proposals are on-track with the goals of the program, applicants need to connect with their local Cooperative Extension agent to discuss their project details. After meeting with an agent, applicants must submit an “Intent to Apply” form by September 26, 2025. The official grant deadline, when all application materials are due, is November 14, 2025.

Full details on informational sessions, past projects funded, and application materials can be found at: wncagoptions.org

An information session for Haywood County will be held Wednesday, September 3, 2025 from 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m  at the N.C. Cooperative Extension Center, Haywood County Center at 589 Raccoon Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786.

Register for information sessions through this form

WNC AgOptions is funded by the NC Tobacco Trust Fund Commission and works in partnership with N.C. Cooperative Extension and WNC Communities