Source: NATIONAL SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE COALITION, 7/30/21

Historically, farmers of color have been unable to participate in or benefit from USDA programs to the same extent as their white neighbors. This presents an enormous challenge for farmers of color when they are looking to start or maintain viable and resilient careers in farming. Rising costs and limited availability of farmland, access to markets and infrastructure, discrimination, and the worsening impacts of the climate crisis and natural disasters are just some of the challenges these farmers face. In an effort to increase support and funding to assist the operations of farmers of color, women, and military veterans (known collectively as “socially disadvantaged farmers” in statute), USDA created the Outreach and Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers Program, more commonly known as the “2501 Program,” administered by USDA’s Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE). The 2501 program helps to ensure that historically underserved producers have equitable access to the information, programs, and opportunities that will help them to find success in agriculture.

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