IAM-Chi Micro-grant Program Concludes (March 2026)
The Innovative Agriculture Micro-grants for Chicago (IAM-Chi) program has concluded. We share a heartfelt thank you to the community of Cook County farmers for being such active partners in making the IAM-Chi Micro-grant program a success. We hope that you stay in contact with University of Illinois Extension as you continue the important and innovative work of urban agriculture in Cook County. We also hope that you reach out to the Illinois Farm Service Agency, Cook County Office, as you continue to produce food and engage in the urban agricultural system. We are excited to continue being a partner in the enhancement of urban food systems across Chicago, and thank you for your efforts. For any questions or follow-ups, please reach out to Jesse at jschaff@illinois.edu or 312-585-9128.
USDA FSA: Innovative Agriculture Micro-grants for Chicago (IAM-Chi)
The United States Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency Outreach Office and Illinois FSA Office, in cooperation with University of Illinois Extension, announces an opportunity for urban farmers and producers, beginning farmers, historically underserved producers, and food entrepreneurs in Chicago, Illinois to apply for an IAM-Chi grant. These grants are designed to fund innovative, forward-thinking, and novel projects to advance urban agriculture in Chicago. Grants must not trigger environmental assessments or evaluations. The original application period ran from May 1, 2024, to November 30, 2026, prior to the conclusion of approved application funding distributions in March 2026.
IAM-Chi Grants Support:
- Conservation practices that improve soil quality;
- Cost-sharing for infrastructure and on-farm equipment;
- Improvements in supply chain issues; and
- Other innovative projects that support urban agriculture.
IAM-Chi Grants Are:
- Small, one-time allocations that will require verification of expenses;
- Available from $1,000 (minimum) to $25,000 (maximum) in funding;
- Awarded to eligible producers for projects that will be completed within 3 months;
- First-come, first-served competitive basis, beginning now until November 30, 2026; and
- Available as soon as possible or within 2 months after grant submission if selected for funding.