Established in 2005, the Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program (TAEP) provides cost-share funding to agricultural producers across the state. The program supports long-term improvements that help farmers strengthen their operations, increase profitability, improve safety, boost efficiency, and respond to changing market demands. In addition to benefiting individual farms, TAEP plays a key role in supporting Tennessee’s rural economies.

Between 2005 and 2025, more than $309 million has been awarded to fund 97,855 producer projects. Every TAEP dollar invested returns approximately $6.55 to local economies, demonstrating the program’s significant statewide impact.

2026 Program Categories

Producers may apply for cost-share assistance in the following areas:

• Dairy Solutions

• Genetics

• Hay Storage

• Hay Equipment

• Herd Health

• Livestock Equipment

• Livestock Solutions

• Poultry Grower

• Row Crop Solutions

• Swine Producer

• Working Structures & Fence-line Systems

• Producer Diversification (including agritourism; fruit and vegetable production; honey bees; horticulture; organics; and value-added products)

Application Schedule

• Application Period: October 1–7 each year

• Application Materials Available: Late August on the TAEP website

• Approval Notifications: Mid-December

• Reimbursement Packets Sent: January

Approved applicants may begin eligible purchases on October 1. All purchases must be completed before the final reimbursement deadline for the approved program category.

Funding Details & Eligibility

To qualify, applicants must meet both general eligibility requirements and specific guidelines for their chosen program.

• TAEP reimburses 50% of approved expenses.

• Program reimbursement limits range from $2,000 to $12,000.

• Required master certification (or approved equivalent for Producer Diversification) must be current at the time reimbursement is requested.

Reimbursement Process

Once a project is completed, participants may submit a reimbursement request before the applicable deadline. Required materials include:

• Program-specific documentation

• Itemized receipts

• Photographs of the completed project

• IRS Form W-9

• Proof of required certification

All submissions are reviewed to confirm eligibility, purchase dates, and proper project completion. Farm visits may be conducted when additional verification is needed.

Compliance Requirements

Equipment and structures funded through TAEP must be used for their approved purpose for at least five consecutive years from the purchase date. Site visits may occur before, during, or after project completion to ensure compliance with program standards, including livestock or acreage minimums.

Providing false or misleading information may result in suspension from the program, legal action, or criminal prosecution. Random compliance checks are also conducted annually on previously funded projects.

Supporting Agriculture Across Tennessee

Administered by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture with support from the Governor’s Office and the Tennessee General Assembly, TAEP continues to promote agricultural advancement and stimulate economic growth in all 95 Tennessee counties.