Applications Open for 2026 MSU Organic Farmer Training Program

By Andi Anderson

Applications are now open for the 2026 Michigan State University (MSU) Organic Farmer Training Program (OFTP), which provides aspiring and beginning farmers with the knowledge and skills to succeed in organic farming.

The program runs from February 23 to November 9, 2026, with Mondays dedicated to classes and field visits.

The OFTP features a hybrid format that combines hands-on training with interactive online learning. Participants will take part in:

• Five Monday field trips plus one weekend trip to visit more than 20 sustainable farms.
• 14 days of interactive online learning with instructors and peers.
• Five days of hands-on learning as a full group at farms in Detroit, East Lansing, and Grand Rapids.
• Eight additional site days at one of three locations: Keep Growing Detroit, MSU Student Organic Farm in East Lansing, or New City Farm in Grand Rapids.

The program emphasizes farm planning, business development, and practical agricultural skills while creating a supportive learning community. Students include farmers, farmworkers, homesteaders, and educators committed to building sustainable food systems.

Scholarships and Funding Opportunities

Two OFTP scholarships are available:

• Detroit Farmer Scholarship for individuals from Detroit, Hamtramck, or Highland Park.
• Transition to Organic Scholarship for farmers pursuing organic certification.
• Additional funding support includes the Greenstone Cultivate Growth Grant, Farmer Veteran Fellowship Fund, National Young Farmers Coalition Grants, Michigan SARE Travel Scholarships, and several other national and regional opportunities.

Program Costs

The fee for 2026 is $3,900 plus about $200 for books and materials. Payments may be made by card, check, cash, AmeriCorps Education Awards, most 529 plans, some MET plans, or through Michigan Works!

Deadlines

Scholarship applications are due November 15, 2025.

Applications for the Detroit learning site are strongly encouraged by the same date due to high demand.

Applications for East Lansing and Grand Rapids will be accepted until February 2026 or until the cohort is full.

Program alumni have praised the program’s impact. Graduate Heather Fuson shared, “Before OFTP I had a vision, but when I left I had a plan.”

For more details and to apply, contact oftp@msu.edu

Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu