Horizon Farm Credit Awards $150,000 to Support New and Beginning Farmers Through 2025 JumpStart Grant Program
Horizon Farm Credit recently awarded $150,000 in grant funding to 15 beginning farmers as part of its 2025 JumpStart Grant Program, a cornerstone of the Association’s commitment to supporting the next generation of farmers. Each recipient received a $10,000 grant to establish and grow their farm operations.
JumpStart is an annual grant program for agriculturalists with two years or less of farming experience, or those who plan to begin farming within the next two years. Grant funds can be used in various ways to support farm businesses. The 2025 JumpStart Grant recipients plan to use their funding to invest in essential startup infrastructure, equipment, and systems that improve efficiency, support diversification, and lay the groundwork for long-term farm sustainability. Funds can also be utilized for services including legal fees, business planning, or other startup costs.
“Getting started in agriculture requires planning, persistence, and access to capital. Farm Credit is committed to supporting beginning farmers taking bold steps toward building their agricultural dreams,” said Tom Truitt, Chief Executive Officer of Horizon Farm Credit. “Through the JumpStart Grant Program, we’re proud to walk alongside these farmers at a pivotal point in their operations. Their success is vital to the future of agriculture, and this grant program allows them to access resources that aid in the success of their operations.”
The following applicants received grants valued at $10,000 to establish and grow their farms:
- Josephine Drummonds of Edinburg, Virginia
- Leslie Evans of Baltimore, Maryland
- James and Danielle Hansen of Machipongo, Virginia
- Nick Healy of Hampstead, Maryland
- Nickolas and Laura Kefauver of Myersville, Maryland
- Lee and Amanda Kozokas of Mehoopany, Pennsylvania
- Ryan Mahony of Westmoreland City, Pennsylvania
- Kelly Mercier of Nicholson, Pennsylvania
- Will and Megan Ozman of Trappe, Maryland
- Henry Norley and Kristin Shirk of Westfield, Pennsylvania
- Brandon Skinner of Hartly, Delaware
- Michael Trusik of Freeport, Pennsylvania
- Ellis Turner of Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania
- Maurice Wofford of Meadville, Pennsylvania
- David Yeckley and Breanne Radin Yeckley of Mainesburg, Pennsylvania
Applications for the 2025 JumpStart grant program were carefully evaluated by a diverse panel of agriculture professionals and industry experts. Those named above were selected on the merits of their submissions, which included an application, business plan, and completion of the Ag Biz Basics educational course. Learn more about this program by visiting horizonfc.com/jumpstart.