We are proud to announce the recipients of our 2024 JumpStart Grants, an initiative designed to empower aspiring farmers and cultivate the future of agriculture in Alabama. From a competitive pool of 67 applications, we selected five recipients who received a total of $50,000 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, our CEO. “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.”

Here are this year’s winners and the plans for the funds they received:

• 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.

Our JumpStart Grant program awards $10,000 to five startup farmers within our 40-county territory who have been farming for less than two years or plan to start farming within the next year. We evaluate applicants based on their business plans, financial understanding, and proposed use of funds.

One of the most memorable moments from this year’s awards ceremony was hearing from Jacqueline McArthur, a 2023 recipient, who shared how the grant transformed her farming operation. Her story is a powerful reminder of why we do this—to empower Alabama’s farmers and help them succeed.

Be on the lookout for an upcoming video showcasing the 2024 recipients and their plans for utilizing the grant to grow their operations.