The Pine Cone Foundation (PCF) has officially opened its 5th Annual Grant Program, and they are distributing four $10,000 grants specifically to California-based farmers, ranchers, fishers, and aquaculture purveyors. Three of these grants are earmarked for brand-new operations, and one is reserved for a previous PCF grant alumnus.
The Phase 1 application window closes this Monday, July 20, 2026. This is the only open call for applications this year.
What You Need to Know
- The Funding: Four $10,000 grants to help fund a specific project to be completed within one year.
- Who is Eligible: Established, small California-based aquaculture operations, farms, ranches, and fisheries.
- Equity Commitment: To help address systemic inequities in agriculture and marine fields, PCF commits a minimum of 50% of its grant funding to BIPOC (Black, Asian, Hispanic, Indigenous) and female-identifying, non-binary, or trans purveyors.
- The Process: It starts with a quick, 15-minute preliminary form. If selected, you’ll be invited to submit a more detailed Phase 2 application in August.
How to Apply
Review the full guidelines on the Pine Cone Foundation Grant Page and submit your Phase 1 application before the portal locks on Monday.
If you have a project in mind – whether it’s upgrading seed-setting systems, investing in kelp or shellfish monitoring gear, or improving farm biosecurity – this is a perfect opportunity to secure clean, non-dilutive funding.
If you are a CAA member and need any assistance with the grant application or administration, please contact us.
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