Farmers and ranchers across the country, including Nebraska, could receive up to $10,000 to develop agritourism opportunities through a new partnership between American Farmland Trust and Airbnb.
The Farm to Stay grant program is designed to help agricultural producers diversify their income by adding overnight accommodations or visitor experiences to existing operations. Potential projects range from farm lodging and glamping to corn mazes, pick-your-own produce and animal encounters.
Quick Read:
- Funding: Grants of up to $10,000 can support farm lodging, glamping, corn mazes, animal experiences and other agritourism projects.
- Growing demand: Airbnb reports searches for farm stays have increased 400% since 2018, with an average farm stay generating $8,000 in additional income in 2025.
- Applications: The competitive grant accepts applications from Nov. 30th through Dec. 4th, with applications reviewed in the order received. Producers can learn more at farmland.org/farm-to-stay.
Ashley Brucker, senior manager of grantmaking at American Farmland Trust, said the program gives producers flexibility to develop projects that fit their individual operations.
“One thing that we really are proud of here at American Farmland Trust with our direct-to-farmer grant making is that we really let farmers and ranchers pick their own adventure when it comes to their grant applications.”
The initiative comes as interest in agricultural tourism continues to grow. According to research cited by Airbnb, Google searches for farm stays have increased 400% since 2018. The company also estimates that an average farm stay generated $8,000 in additional income in 2025.
Brucker said the partnership responds to growing interest from both agricultural producers seeking additional revenue and travelers wanting firsthand experiences on working farms.
“So it’s not just the the farmers and ranchers who are wanting to have this opportunity, but people, travelers are interested in visiting farms.”
Beyond generating income, the program could help connect consumers with food production and the people behind it.
Brucker said the grants are intended for producers interested in exploring new business opportunities, rather than encouraging every operation to enter agritourism.
“And then also just really think about if this is the right fit for your operation… If this makes sense for your situation, for your operation, for your day to day, then maybe it’s something to consider.”
Applications will be accepted Nov. 30 through Dec. 4. Brucker expects strong competition for the limited funding and said applications will be reviewed in the order received.
American Farmland Trust and Airbnb are also hosting informational webinars in October and November. Participation does not require producers to apply for funding.
Additional information, webinar registration and forthcoming eligibility requirements are available at farmland.org/farm-to-stay.