This week, Alabama Ag Credit announced the recipients of their 2024 JumpStart Grants to empower aspiring farmers and cultivate the future of agriculture in Alabama. From a competitive pool of 67 applications, five recipients were selected and a total of $50,000 was given to invest in their startup farming operations.
“These grants represent more than financial assistance—they are an investment in the future of agriculture,” said Doug Thiessen, CEO of Alabama Ag Credit. “It’s inspiring to see these individuals take the first steps to JumpStart their farms, and we’re excited to see the positive impact they’ll have on their communities and agriculture in Alabama.”
The winners and the plans for the funds they received are:
- Justin Anderson (Gordo, AL): Building infrastructure to manage and raise stocker calves while improving pasture sustainability.
- Marty Brunson (Pike Road, AL): Expanding his apiary to increase honey production and enhance community education.
- Brittany Gulledge (Ozark, AL): Improving grazing efficiency with cross-fencing, investing in superior genetics, and developing a new customer-friendly website for 4C Meats.
- Michael Smith (Newville, AL): Installing an irrigation well to support an agritourism and U-pick vegetable operation.
- Josh & Bailey Williams (Eclectic, AL): Kickstarting their diversified cattle operation, including a cow-calf program and freezer beef sales.
The JumpStart Grant program awards $10,000 to five startup farmers within Alabama Ag Credit’s 40-county territory who have been farming for less than two years or plan to start farming within the next year. Applicants are evaluated based on their business plans, financial understanding, and proposed use of funds.
A highlight of the awards ceremony was a heartfelt speech from Jacqueline McArthur, a 2023 recipient, who shared how the grant transformed her farming operation. Her story served as a reminder of the program’s mission: to empower Alabama’s farmers and help them succeed.
An upcoming video will showcase the 2024 recipients and their plans for utilizing the grant to grow their operations.
