IL HB4922

Creates the Emerging and Socially Disadvantaged Farmers Infrastructure and Market Access Grant Program administered by the Illinois Department of Agriculture, effective July 1, 2026

Defines eligible applicants as emerging farmers (women, veterans, persons with disabilities, communities of color, young persons, LGBTQIA+ individuals, urban farmers) and socially disadvantaged farmers who have faced systemic discrimination in accessing land, credit, capital, or agricultural programs

Grant funds may be used for capital and infrastructure improvements, equipment purchases, operational expenses, and market access/distribution costs

Priority given to applicants who have not previously received State agricultural grants, operate small-scale farms, demonstrate barriers consistent with social disadvantage, and propose projects that increase food production or create jobs

Program may be funded through unexpended appropriations from Fiscal Years 2021-2025 designated for socially disadvantaged farmers, with no matching funds required from grant recipients