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This year the Rockbridge County Farm Bureau started a youth micro-grant program to encourage young people to start or expand rural agricultural, horticultural, silvicultural, or rural related business enterprises. Applications consider project concept, goals, business plan, experience, and future potential.
In its inaugural year, two micro- grants were awarded.
Tanner Thrasher received a grant to expand his lawn care business by purchasing a lawn mower, string trimmer, gas cans, and safety equipment. Tanner plans on using the profit from his business to invest in stock – both the four-legged kind and the Wall Street kind.
Schylar Zollman received a grant to purchase kidding and corral panels for her business, “Jo’s Goats.” Schylar breeds and raises goats, shows at local fairs, and sells chevon at farmer’s markets. She will use the panels to help manage kidding and goat care.
The Rockbridge County Farm Bureau hopes to expand this program in 2024. Applications for the 2024 Rockbridge County Farm Bureau Youth Micro-grant will be available by Oct. 1 at the county office, from members of the county board of directors, and on social media. Completed applications are due Nov. 1.
Anyone wishing to financially support the micro-grant program may make contributions at the county office. For more information, call Steve Hart at (845) 238-4831.
