The Center for Minority Farmers opened in September 2004, in offices located in USDA Headquarters, Washington, DC. The Center has become a one-stop help program for minority farmers, limited resource farmers, community based organizations and others.

The Center's staff coordinates technical assistance and training that many of USDA customers need to enable them to fully participate in USDA's programs and services. Minority farmers and others contacting the Center can receive referrals to experts within USDA's agencies who can help them meet USDA program participation requirements. Farmers seeking to develop stronger and more successful farm and business operations can also participate in capacity building training activities, coordinated through the Center. The Center also provides information on forming cooperatives and partnerships so minority farmers can maximize opportunities to participate in new markets for their agriculture products.

Through the use of a new tool in the development stage, the Farm/Business Assessment Form, the Center will collect information on farms and businesses to access their readiness to sell produce to the hospitality and other industries. Those operations found not to be ready, will be provided the technical assistance and training required for readiness. Farmers and organizations wanting to be assessed through the use of the Farm/Business Assessment Form, should contact the Center for Minority Farmers.

The Center also encourages farmers to participate in the USDA Minority Farm Register. The USDA Minority Farm Register is a tool to promote equal access to USDA farm programs and services for minority farmland owners, farmers, ranchers, tenants, and other individuals with an agricultural interest. Participation in the Registry is voluntary. By participating in the registry farmers will increase their opportunity to participate in outreach programs.

For more information about this program, contact the Center for Minority Farmers.
USDA Center for Minority Farmers
1400 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20250
Mail Stop 9473
Telephone:(202) 205-0667
Toll Free Number: (866) 873-2163
E-Mail Address: usdaoutreach@usda.gov