Seneca student using their new food science lab made possible by a Missouri FFA Foundation grant.
The Missouri FFA Foundation has become a cornerstone in shaping the future of Missouri agriculture. By securing strategic partnerships and financial resources, the foundation is dedicated to enhancing educational and leadership opportunities for students statewide. A key function of the Missouri FFA Foundation is allocating grants that support agricultural education programs. These grants provide essential financial resources and address critical needs in facilities, curriculum and equipment, ensuring that students receive comprehensive agricultural education.
The Missouri FFA Foundation has developed two unique grants. Horizon Grants are designed to enhance existing high school agricultural education programs. Ranging from $10,000-$20,000, these funds can be used to upgrade facilities, purchase equipment, replenish lab supplies or expand curriculum offerings. Schools applying for Horizon Grants must provide a 50% local match. Rising Sun Grants provide vital support for schools seeking to establish new agricultural education programs or introduce new agricultural courses. Ranging from $25,000 to $50,000, these grants can be used to build new facilities, purchase equipment and develop curriculum. Schools must provide a 25% local match.
Ballard FFA members help in their new greenhouse.
For each dollar the foundation allocates through the Horizon and Rising Sun grants, local communities are contributing more than $1.19 in their matching funds, showcasing a strong commitment to agricultural education at the local level. Both grant categories are funded by the Missouri Department of Agriculture and the State of Missouri. Aligned with the findings of the 2020 Workforce Needs Assessment for Missouri’s industry of agriculture, the foundation’s grants are essential in meeting the growing workforce demands.
By providing schools with necessary resources, the foundation ensures that Missouri’s agriculture workforce remains well-trained and highly skilled. One of their most impactful initiatives is the Learning by Doing Grants, which range from $500 to $1,000. These grants have been a lifeline for teachers who have struggled to provide hands-on learning due to a lack of resources. They primarily fund materials and equipment, preparing students for careers in agriculture and related fields.
A Winfield student works in the new small engines lab.
Heather Dimitt-Fletcher, director of the Missouri FFA Foundation, said, “It’s rewarding to see the communities step up when given the opportunity.”
These grants not only invest in students but also in the future of Missouri’s industry of agriculture. Thanks to continued support from partners, state leaders and local communities, the Missouri FFA Foundation is making a significant impact. The Missouri FFA Foundation’s efforts are made possible by the support of leaders like Governor Mike Kehoe and Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn, who have been instrumental in securing funding for agricultural education programs.
With 25 grants awarded to date through the Horizon and Rising Sun grant programs, schools across Missouri are benefiting from the resources needed to improve and grow their agricultural education programs. The foundation remains dedicated to shaping and supporting tomorrow’s leaders as they thrive in an ever-evolving industry of agriculture.
