Wolfe’s Neck Center launches Northeast Farmers Fund for regenerative agriculture

Wolfe’s Neck Center for Agriculture & the Environment launched the Northeast Farmers Fund in summer 2026 to provide financial and technical support to farmers producing and marketing regenerative agricultural products, with a goal of assisting 385 farmers by early 2028.

The initiative is funded through USDA’s Advancing Markets for Producers (AMP) program, supply chain participants and philanthropic partners. The fund is designed to connect farmers with market opportunities while providing resources for investments such as equipment, value-added processing and certifications.

The first pilot enrollment began in July with more than 50 farms participating. Wolfe’s Neck Center contracted technical assistance providers to work directly with participating farmers as they develop and implement projects.

Farmers also can access soil sampling and analysis services during their projects. The data is intended to help participants evaluate changes in soil health and document outcomes over time.

“Regenerative agriculture can help farms become more resilient, but farmers need profitable market conditions that support the decisions they’re making on the farm,” said Ellen Griswold, managing director of programs.

Red Boot Farm in Scarborough, Maine, was among the pilot participants. Owners Neil Kessler and Maisie Perkins used funding to purchase a tractor and animal feeders to expand their pastured livestock operation.

The first open enrollment period will begin in October 2026 and expand access to farmers across the Northeast. Wolfe’s Neck Center intends to provide direct assistance to 385 farmers by the end of the AMP grant in early 2028.