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roadblocks, especially when starting a business or farm. This ranges from uncertain and often unsteady income to capital requirements and land access.
Finding Support
On top of the Transition Assistance Programs( TAP) for service members, such as those from the U. S. Department of Labor, Department of Defense, U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and more, programs, loans, and organizations are available to those looking into agriculture.
The United States Department of Agriculture( USDA) Farm Service Agency( FSA) offers loans and grants for veteran farmers; the USDA Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program offers training and technical assistance; and the Farmer Veteran Coalition( FVC) connects veterans with agricultural careers through mentorship, grants, and a nationwide network of veteran farmers.
These types of programs offer financial, educational, and business assistance that many veterans transitioning to the industry can find helpful, but there is more than just practical support available. Local organizations offer community and connection, especially for those living in more rural areas where relationships can be difficult to foster.
“ If you haven’ t built a network before a crisis, finding someone to lean on in the middle of it becomes that much harder,” Roberts stated.“ That’ s the biggest lesson I’ ve learned from this work: build those connections before you need them.”
When starting Sovereign Roots, Roberts envisioned a program that combined working with the land and building self-sustaining skills while creating a space for veterans to form relationships and learn from one another.
“ I figured the first place to start was to build a fire pit on our farm and invite folks out to see the property and spend time in nature,” Roberts explained.“ In 2023, I built the first fire pit for our Rally Point gatherings.”
Rally Point Gatherings, which allow veterans to connect, share stories, access resources, and build a grounded community rooted in warrior values, is just one of the offerings from Sovereign Roots to support local veterans out of Colorado. Roberts explains that the organization creates natural settings where conversations have room to happen and members can feel comfortable.
When transitioning, whether it ' s into ag or another field after service, it ' s vital to have personal support on top of the practical requirements and support systems available.
A Sovereign Roots gathering around the fire pit. Courtesy of Sovereign Roots Veterans Retreat.
Corey Roberts works on a timber fence brace at Sovereign Roots. Courtesy of Sovereign Roots Veterans Retreat.
Resources for Veterans Pursuing Agriculture
For those interested in farming, it’ s important to consider the feasibility of the purchase before buying land or equipment.
“ Look at the land, what you want to produce, and what it will take to make that operation work,” Roberts advised.“ Whatever condition the property is in, be realistic about the work and resources needed.”
Through the FVC, the Farmer Veteran Fellowship Fund provides grants ranging from $ 1,000 to $ 5,000 to help cover costs for items such as fencing, livestock, feed, and equipment. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, agricultural lenders, and applicable Farm Service Agency loan programs may also offer assistance. Veterans should contact local offices directly to confirm eligibility requirements and terms.
Farm ownership is not the only path into agriculture, however. Schmid noted the range of career opportunities available, while the FVC points to training, apprenticeships, hands-on agricultural education, and employment as ways for veterans to gain practical experience before taking on the financial risks of ownership.
Building a Future
Whether it’ s from buying property, apprenticeships, a start-up, or returning to the land, the transition from service to agriculture looks different for everyone. While Roberts is using his land to create connections and opportunities for other veterans, Schmid built a business after earning a degree in agricultural business. Both paths offer examples of how military experience can carry over into civilian careers, but finding the right fit also takes planning, industry knowledge, and access to resources.
For veterans considering a career in agriculture, exploring the opportunities available and connecting with the right organizations can help clarify next steps. Roberts encourages asking for help early, before the challenges become harder to manage.
“ Start by asking questions or raising your hand and saying you could use some help,” Roberts said.
Schmid’ s advice is more direct:“ Do it as soon as you can.”
November 2026 | www. FarmersHotLine. com | 7