US: Finding the right grant programs for greenhouse growers

A greenhouse is a significant investment for any grower. Whether you are building a greenhouse or high tunnel for a homestead, small farm or educational institution, grants and external funding can help to make your greenhouse dream a reality.

There are many opportunities for growers of all sizes to secure funding for a new high tunnel or greenhouse purchase. Here are some of the top greenhouse funding opportunities that businesses and institutions should be aware of in 2026.

NRCS EQIP high tunnel funding
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) operates the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) to provide financial and technical assistance to agricultural producers. As part of EQIP, the NRCS offers funding for high tunnel purchases through its High Tunnel Initiative. Farmers of all sizes are eligible to apply, including homesteaders.

Many growers across the country have used NRCS funding to purchase their first high tunnel, allowing them to extend the growing season and even grow year-round. NRCS applications are accepted on a rolling basis, so farmers can apply any time throughout the year, with no commitment required to apply.

More information on the NRCS High Tunnel Initiative is available on Rimol's NRCS Resource Center.

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NRCS funding for energy upgrades
In addition to the High Tunnel Initiative, NRCS also offers funding for agricultural producers that are making energy upgrades to existing high tunnels as part of the EQIP On-Farm Energy Initiative.

Many different greenhouse upgrades can qualify for EQIP assistance, such as energy efficient heaters, ridge vents, or environmental controllers. Requirements and funding amounts will vary by state, but in some cases the funding will cover the purchase, installation and/or retrofit of the equipment. More information on EQIP is also available on Rimol's NRCS Resource Center.

USDA specialty crop block grants
The USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) is a competitive grant program designed to support the production, marketing, and competitiveness of specialty crops, including certain fruits, vegetables, tree nuts and nursery crops. Funds are distributed to state departments of agriculture, which then award grants to projects that strengthen the specialty crop sector for growers and local communities.

Many greenhouse growers, including schools, can apply for Specialty Crop Block grant funding through their state's department of agriculture. Application deadlines are typically in the spring, so reach out to your state's local SCBGP contact to learn more and get started.

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Educational grants
There are many funding opportunities that can support the purchase of a school greenhouse, including several programs designed specifically for educational institutions. Options to consider include Department of Education Perkins Grants, which provide federal funding to support career and technical education programs, as well as Specialty Crop Block Grants, for which schools and educational institutions may also qualify. In addition, there are private grant opportunities available, such as those compiled by the National Agriculture in the Classroom organization, which offers a helpful round-up of private funding sources for school agriculture programs on its website.

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Local energy grants and rebates
Greenhouse and high tunnel growers of all sizes may be able to fund upgrades to existing greenhouses through local energy grant and rebate programs. These programs differ by state and are typically offered by utilities providers.

The application process, repayment rates and types of equipment covered will vary by program and location, but it is worth a call to your utilities provider if you are thinking of making energy-saving upgrades to your greenhouse or high tunnel.