Alabama Ag Credit has awarded $50,000 to five beginning farming operations through its 2026 JumpStart Grant Program, bringing the program’s total investment in Alabama’s beginning farmers to $250,000 since its launch in 2022.
Interest in the program has grown significantly over the past five years, with applications more than tripling from 35 in its inaugural year to 103 in 2026, more than a 200% increase. Each year, JumpStart awards five $10,000 grants to help beginning farmers establish and grow their agricultural businesses, supporting investments ranging from livestock and pasture improvements to poultry production and farm infrastructure.
What it’s designed to do
The JumpStart Grant Program is designed for individuals who have started farming within the past two years or plan to begin farming within the next year. Applicants are evaluated on their business plans, understanding of financial and operational needs, and proposed use of grant funds.
“Starting a farm takes vision, determination and a willingness to invest in something that may take years to fully develop,” said Nick Hartley, president and CEO of Alabama Ag Credit. “These recipients represent the entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic that make Alabama agriculture strong. We’re proud to invest in their futures and help them take the next steps toward building sustainable operations.”
2026 JumpStart grant recipients
John Dickson – Bibb County: Dickson is developing a diversified livestock operation along the Cahaba River, raising cattle and hogs for direct-to-consumer meat sales. Grant funds will help him purchase quality breeding heifers to expand his cattle herd, improve genetics and support long-term growth.
Ethan Fisher, T.F. Farms – Barbour County: Fisher operates a poultry and cattle farm, building on his family’s agricultural experience. The grant will help support equipment and operating needs as he continues establishing and expanding his farm.
Benjamin and Rebecca Knuckles, Mount Zion Acres – Elmore County: First-generation farmers, the Knuckles are developing a diversified livestock operation featuring Kiko goats and pasture-raised poultry. Their grant will support livestock-handling infrastructure and continued development of their farm, with an emphasis on regenerative grazing and locally produced meat.
Josh McGowan, Double E Farm – Pike County: McGowan is a first-generation cattle producer working to establish a sustainable, locally focused beef operation. Grant funds will support pasture development and livestock-handling improvements as he expands his herd and prepares for future direct-to-consumer beef sales.
Braxton and Jessica Smith, Azalea Acres – Baldwin County: The Smiths are transforming nearly 10 acres of former farmland into a diversified, regenerative operation producing poultry, eggs, fruits and vegetables. Their grant will help fund perimeter fencing and their first cycle of pasture-raised meat chicken production.
Seeing progress
The recipients were recognized during Alabama Ag Credit’s annual JumpStart celebration, which brings together beginning farmers, their families and agricultural supporters. As part of the program’s tradition, previous recipients return each year to share their experiences and progress. This year’s celebration featured 2025 recipients Caitlin and Thomas Reeves, who shared how the grant has supported the growth of their farming operation.
“One of the most rewarding parts of JumpStart is seeing the progress recipients make after receiving their grants,” said Larry Gibson, board chairman of Alabama Ag Credit. “Over the past five years, we’ve invested $250,000 in beginning farmers, but the real impact is in the operations they’re building and the success stories we’re seeing along the way. We’re proud to be part of their journeys and look forward to seeing what this year’s recipients accomplish.”
For more information about the JumpStart Grant Program, visit www.AlabamaAgCredit.com.
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