The Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program offers various cost-share opportunities for agriculture, including Dairy, Genetics, Hay, Livestock, Poultry, Row Crop, Swine, and Producer Diversification.
The application period occurs annually from October 1–7, with updated materials released late August on the TAEP webpage.
It is important to note that failure to meet the specific requirements of the chosen program may result in disqualification from receiving cost-share funding.
Approved purchases may begin on October 1, the first day of the application period, and must be completed before the final reimbursement deadline for the approved program.
Applicants are notified of approval in mid-December, and reimbursement packets are mailed in January. These packets include approval documents and detailed instructions. Once the project is complete, participants may submit a reimbursement request before the program’s final deadline.
Reimbursement requests must include program documentation, itemized receipts, project photos, IRS Form W-9, and certification proof. Each request is reviewed for eligibility, purchase dates, and proper project installation. Farm visits may precede payment for further verification.
2026 Program Categories
Farmers can apply for cost-share funding in these areas:
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Genetics
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Hay Storage
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Hay Equipment
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Herd Health
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Row Crop Solutions
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Swine Producer
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Working Structures & Fence-line Systems
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Producer Diversification (such as agritourism, fruits and vegetables, honey bees, horticulture, organics, and value-added products)
All TAEP-funded equipment and structures must be used for their approved purpose for a minimum of 5 years. Site visits may confirm compliance, with penalties for false info. Random annual checks are conducted.
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) values the ongoing backing of the Governor’s Office and the Tennessee Legislature for funding TAEP, fueling economic growth in all 95 counties across Tennessee.
