Dear Next Generation Foundation Partners,
Regenerative agriculture seems to be everywhere these days. Products ranging from sneakers to macaroni and cheese are promoting their regenerative qualities. While some of these claims may be advertising spin, we hope the enthusiasm for regenerative agriculture isn’t a passing fad. That’s because regenerative agriculture’s goals align perfectly with the Foundation’s: to support a farm system today that will build a better future for the next generation.
In the spirit of regeneration, last year we were proud to launch two new Foundation programs that invest in the future of farming and resilient food systems:
Regenerative Agriculture Grants: These grants award young farmers up to $10,000 to invest in regenerative farming practices that have been shown to improve soil health, increase
biodiversity, reduce runoff and even help sequester carbon to fight climate change.
Gilt Grants: This program grants young farmers with free breeding pigs (gilts) and mentorship from a more seasoned Niman Ranch farmer so they can get started or grow their operation.
These programs build on our previously awarded scholarships and grants supporting higher education and farm improvements. Across all our programs in 2022, the Foundation awarded
over $173,000 to 46 young farmers and future rural leaders. These investments plant the seed for a sustainable future with young farmers and ranchers on the land raising animals with care,
thriving rural communities and a healthy environment.
Thank you for joining us as we help regenerate the food and farming system. Your support makes a real difference.
With gratitude,
Alicia LaPorte Executive Director
Niman Ranch Next Generation Foundation
ABOUT THE NEXT GENERATION FOUNDATION
The Niman Ranch Next Generation Foundation Scholarship started in 2006, inspired by Niman Ranch family farmer David Serfling. Dave raised hogs, cattle, sheep and crops in southeast Minnesota.
WHAT’S OUR IMPACT?
Since 2006, the Foundation has distributed over $1.2 million, to fund 406 scholarships and grants supporting the next generation of family
farmers, rural leaders
and sustainable agriculture advocates.
