The Cecil County Office of Economic Development is providing grant funding to support local agricultural businesses through the FY2026 Upper Shore Micro Agricultural Grant Program. The program aims to support the growth, diversification, and long-term sustainability of existing agricultural businesses in Cecil County, Maryland. Eligible applicants include farms, producers, and agricultural enterprises engaged in various activities such as crop production, livestock, poultry, equine, greenhouse, nursery, value-added food production, agritourism, aquaculture, and timber or forestry operations.
• Eligible projects include capital improvements, value-added production, agritourism infrastructure, strategic marketing, technology adoption, research, and other investments that strengthen Cecil County's agricultural economy.
• Grant awards are offered in three tiers: Seed Grants (up to $2,500), Growth Grants (up to $5,000), and Impact Grants ($7,500 to $10,000).
• Applicants must submit a detailed project budget, including vendor information and cost estimates, and must be able to cover project costs up front and request reimbursement.
• The application deadline is February 27, 2026, and all projects must be completed by May 30, 2026.