New London’s popular new Ag Program receives Farm Credit Grant

NEW LONDON — New London Ag Foundation received a $15,000 grant to establish a new curriculum and FFA program. The grant is provided through FCSAmerica’s Working Here Fund.

The Working Here Fund grant will help establish a new agricultural education curriculum and FFA program at New London Community Schools. The new programs will offer students hands-on learning experiences and career opportunities in agriculture, food, fiber and natural resource systems.

“As agriculture evolves with new technologies and sustainability practices, it is crucial to prepare students for careers in farming, agribusiness, and related fields,” said Tracy Lair, president.

The introduction of the new programs will give students the experience to compete at FFA state and national levels, provide classroom supplies and materials for hands-on learning and plans to build a greenhouse for inside and outside of the classroom learning opportunities for students.

New London Ag Foundation is one of 200 organizations to receive a Working Here Fund grant in the second quarter of 2025. FCSAmerica awarded more than $1.7 million during the latest grant cycle ending June 30, 2025.

“At FCSAmerica, many of us grew up in agriculture and continue to farm. We know firsthand the value of agriculture education and are proud to partner with the New London Ag Foundation to ensure future generations have the same opportunities for learning.,” said Kye Kolpin, regional vice president of customer experience in FCSAmerica’s Mt. Pleasant office.