Department of Agricultural Resources - APR Improvement Program (AIP) Grant RFR - RFR-AIP-FY27-18 (2026)
- Due
- Apr 14, 2026
- Deadline passed
- Posted
- Feb 24, 2026
- Contract term
- 2 years
- Primary contact
- Jessica Camp
- (617) 823-0871
The 30-second brief
The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources invites proposals for the FY2027 APR Improvement Program (AIP). The program provides business planning, technical assistance, and capital funding to sustain active commercial farming on land protected through the Agricultural Preservation Restriction (APR) program. Eligible projects include resource improvements such as pasture enhancements, perimeter fencing, drainage, and irrigation systems, as well as agricultural infrastructure like farmstands, hay barns, livestock housing, and processing facilities. Grant awards range up to $80,000, $125,000, or $150,000 depending on gross farm income and acreage, with a required minimum 10% cash match. Submissions are due by April 14, 2026, and must be sent via email or hard copy to the Department of Agricultural Resources in Boston, Massachusetts.
Clearly identifies needs that are a barrier to the continued success of farm operations, Proposes farm improvements to address identified needs that meet the purpose and objectives of the Program, Clearly describes how the proposed use of grant funds will improve the farm's financial viability, Shows long-term commitment to keeping the farm business viable, Overall high potential for increased profitability and sustainability
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Summary
The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources invites proposals for the FY2027 APR Improvement Program (AIP).
The program provides business planning, technical assistance, and capital funding to sustain active commercial farming on land protected through the Agricultural Preservation Restriction (APR) program. Eligible projects include resource improvements such as pasture enhancements, perimeter fencing, drainage, and irrigation systems, as well as agricultural infrastructure like farmstands, hay barns, livestock housing, and processing facilities. Grant awards range up to $80,000, $125,000, or $150,000 depending on gross farm income and acreage, with a required minimum 10% cash match. Submissions are due by April 14, 2026, and must be sent via email or hard copy to the Department of Agricultural Resources in Boston, Massachusetts.
EVALUATION CRITERIA
Clearly identifies needs that are a barrier to the continued success of farm operations, Proposes farm improvements to address identified needs that meet the purpose and objectives of the Program, Clearly describes how the proposed use of grant funds will improve the farm's financial viability, Shows long-term commitment to keeping the farm business viable, Overall high potential for increased profitability and sustainability
REQUIRED ATTACHMENTS
4- Application Form
- RFR Required Specifications
- Maps
- Lease agreement
- Submit to
- [email protected] or Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources, Attn: APR Improvement Program, 138 Memorial Ave, Suite 42, West Springfield, MA 01089
- Duration
- 22 months
- Scope location
- Boston, MA
- Reported agency
- Department of Agricultural Resources
Questions about this RFO
How do I respond to this RFO from Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources | Commonwealth of Massachusetts?
Review the full solicitation document for submission requirements, evaluation criteria, and deadlines. The submission deadline is April 14, 2026. Be sure to include all required attachments as outlined in the solicitation. Submissions should be delivered to: [email protected] or Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources, Attn: APR Improvement Program, 138 Memorial Ave, Suite 42, West Springfield, MA 01089. For questions, contact Jessica Camp.
Can small businesses or minority-owned firms bid on this RFO?
Most government agencies, including Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources | Commonwealth of Massachusetts in MA, encourage participation from small businesses, minority-owned, women-owned, and disadvantaged business enterprises (MBE/WBE/DBE). Check the full solicitation for any small business participation goals.
What happens after the RFO submission deadline?
After the deadline, the issuing agency reviews all submissions against the stated evaluation criteria. This typically includes a compliance check, technical evaluation, cost analysis, and may involve oral presentations with shortlisted vendors.
Can I ask questions about this solicitation before submitting?
Yes, most solicitations allow vendors to submit questions during a designated period. The primary contact is Jessica Camp at (617) 823-0871. Questions and answers are typically shared with all prospective bidders.
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What are the evaluation criteria for this solicitation?
This solicitation includes specific evaluation criteria that will be used to score proposals. The criteria include: "Clearly identifies needs that are a barrier to the continued success of farm operations, Proposes farm improvements to address identified needs that meet the purpose and objectives of the Program, Cle..." Vendors should carefully align their proposals with each criterion to maximize their score.
Where can I find more RFPs from Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources | Commonwealth of Massachusetts?
All active and historical solicitations from Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources | Commonwealth of Massachusetts are tracked and searchable. As a state agency, Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources | Commonwealth of Massachusetts regularly publishes solicitations. Visit the agency profile to see current open bids, past contracts, vendor relationships, and decision-maker contacts.
What is the contract term for this solicitation?
The anticipated contract term is 2 years. Contract terms may include renewal options.
What documents are required to bid on this RFO?
Requirements vary by solicitation, but common documents include a technical proposal, cost/price proposal, proof of insurance, relevant certifications, past performance references, and any forms specified in the solicitation. This solicitation specifically requires the following attachments: Application Form, RFR Required Specifications, Maps, Lease agreement. Review the full document from Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources | Commonwealth of Massachusetts for the complete list.
What is the scope of this project?
This solicitation defines a specific project scope. The scope covers the following locations: Boston, MA. Review the full solicitation for detailed scope requirements.