The USA is challenged with limited real estate supply, rising inflation, and a lack of locally produced food. It all sounds a bit dim, eh? Fortunately, there are several government and private resources that will support the starting of a controlled environment farm (CEF). Aside from the USA working to create more stable food supply chains, and decreasing foreign food dependency CEFs offer new jobs and the availably of healthy foods for all.

Let’s take a look at some of the available resources that can help support the high costs and challenges of starting a CEF.

First you should educate yourself on the federal “farmers loans” offered by the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture). The loans offer very attractive rates that encourage the growth of the USAs agriculture industry. All sizes of farms in each state may qualify. Check it out here.  There are also special funds allocated for sustainable vertical farms, the vertical farm funding can be found here.  Farmers.gov, which is also run by the USDA offers a detailed list of grants specifically for urban vertical faming.

Aside from federal websites there is a website called ambrook.com wish is dedicated to providing its users all programs that support the growth of a new farm, both indoor and outdoor. The programs are typically more specific for things like farming equipment, rural energy generation and young or minority farmers who are just starting out.

While each of the provided resources will be great for financial backing you will also need the following resources bulleted below:

• Engineering team for your Mechanical, electrical and plumbing.
• Architect for design
• Construction team
• Lighting designers
• Irrigation designers
• Automation controls team
• And more depending on your operation type and location.

If you need any references for the design teams listed above, reach out to TC Controls. TC Controls has a long list of proven contractors that will provide you the support, knowledge and end products needed to build an efficient CEF.