For the third consecutive year, Tractor Supply Company will provide grants to FFA chapters through its Grants for Growing program. Chapters have the opportunity to win a grant with a minimum of $500 up to $5,000!
Grants for Growing is a competitive grant process to develop or improve an agricultural project. Applications must outline a new or existing school agricultural project. The project should be sustainable and live on to benefit future FFA members. These chapter grants will allow for a greater impact in local communities and enhance chapter learning experiences.
» Apply Now: Tractor Supply Company Grants for Growing
Funds for this program are raised by Tractor Supply during an in-store fundraiser that coincides with National FFA Week. By donating at the checkout, customers can help grow leaders, build communities, and strengthen agriculture. Funds raised will be awarded as grants within the states the funds were donated.
Extra points will be added to those chapters that participate in an in-store activity during the fundraising period; however, chapters do not need to be located near a store to win a grant.
Important dates:
- Submit grant applications: Jan. 10 to Feb. 14
- Grants for Growing TSC Store Fundraiser: Feb. 16 to Feb. 25
- Fulfillment forms due: Feb. 26 to March 5
In 2015, Elgin High School in Oklahoma purchased a small teaching hydroponic unit. In 2016, Elgin advisor Cameron Dale applied for a Grants for Growing grant that allowed his chapter to purchase several hydroponic systems large enough to support an Introduction to Horticulture course, bringing a new educational pathway to the school.
While this new course benefits current FFA members, the additional pathway also serves as a recruitment tool to motivate other students to enroll in classes.
With another grant awarded in 2017, the chapter began a Garden Buddies program that paired horticulture students with special education students to garden in the hydroponic system. The program focuses on improving students’ motor skills, verbal communication abilities, as well as teaching others about agriculture and gardening.
The chapter also expanded the hydroponics project in 2017 by adding Tower Garden units. The students grew herbs, lettuces, and vegetables. The students are drying the herbs to sell to local community members. In addition, the chapter is working with a third-grade class by loaning them a tower garden to germinate and grow their own produce and herbs.
