CDFA Urban Agriculture Grant Program

March 18th, 2025
On National Agriculture Day, California celebrates urban agriculture while federal efforts face uncertain future

[Sacramento, California] Today, on National Agriculture Day, Community Alliance with Family Farmers (CAFF) announced the awardees of California’s first-ever Urban Agriculture program housed at the California Department of Food & Agriculture (CDFA). The grants — which will support the growth and sustainability of urban agriculture in cities throughout California — come at a time that urban agriculture programs at the federal level face an uncertain future.

In 2023, CDFA created the first program dedicated to urban agriculture in California. In the initial call for applications, the Urban Agriculture Program was oversubscribed by 570% with $11.67 million in available funding. Ongoing cuts to food access and urban communities from the federal administration aim the spotlight on state programming, including $18.8 million for urban agriculture in Governor Newsom’s January budget proposal as a result of the passage of Proposition 4.

“By continuing to invest in urban agriculture and support the growth of farms and farmers across the state, California will strengthen the farmer-consumer connection while creating a more accessible and resilient food system for all,” said CDFA Secretary Karen Ross.

The 10 farms being regranted funds through CAFF’s Track 1 Community Based Block Grant are based in Sacramento, Riverside, and Fresno, and slated to receive grants of $10,000 to work on projects that enhance farm operations, including tool storage, efficiency equipment, cold storage, and electricity for expanding acreage. Other projects aim to improve community gardens, infrastructure, and educational resources. These efforts focus on sustainable farming, soil health, crop management, increasing production capacity, and distributing culturally relevant educational materials.

Keely Cervantes, CAFF’s Policy & Organizing Manager, says “CAFF is committed to preserving family-scale agriculture, and this statewide program builds a stronger, more equitable food network while empowering farmers to grow local economies and community despite federal uncertainties.”

The USDA’s recent funding freeze has put farms and food banks in a state of uncertainty, with several grants being withheld across the country, prompting legal action. As a result, important programs and projects have been canceled, leaving the agricultural sector facing significant financial instability.

“This funding will play a crucial role in advancing our support for Black, Indigenous, Immigrant, and People of Color farmers by providing the necessary resources to move several businesses to the next phase: Golden State Heirloom Tomatoes and Peppers and the Del Paso Heights Plant Nursery. As a result, we will be able to contribute to a more robust local food system, providing both food and economic opportunities for vulnerable populations,” said Fatima Malik, Volunteer CEO, Del Paso Heights Growers’ Alliance.

Urban farmers play a crucial role in food security, local economies, and the sustainable
management of urban spaces. With rising land prices, unpredictable water access, and extreme weather events, small urban farms continue to face serious barriers to sustainability and growth.

“Being awarded this grant allows us to continue our [program] and bring hands-on gardening education to more communities” said Tina Marie, CEO & Founder, Soulful Soil Farms. “This funding goes a long way in providing tools, seeds, and soil so that more people—some for the first time—can grow their own fresh food. It’s so much bigger than just gardening. We’re teaching life skills and ultimately creating a healthier future together.”