Veterans Florida Agriculture Program

The Veterans Florida Agriculture Program is a unique six-month training initiative designed specifically for veterans and servicemembers to be the next generation of leaders in Florida’s thriving agriculture sector.

What sets the Program apart is its emphasis on comprehensive, hands-on training with our partners at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Research and Education Centers around the state. These centers are at the forefront of modern agricultural research and innovation for food safety, crop production, and the development of disease-resistant plants.

Veterans Florida received a $745,245 award from the United States Department of Agriculture AgVets Program for Fiscal Years 2020-2023. Veterans in the program receive a $17.00 an hour educational stipend while transitioning servicemembers maintain their salary and benefits under SkillBridge.

Since the program started, there have been 34 program completions and 28 immediate job placements. In addition47 servicemembers completed the training through SkillBridge.

Veterans Florida was recently re-upped for another three-year $772,349 grant from the USDA to continue the Program. Our goal is to have 30 veterans complete the Program by 2027.

Currently, more than 400 veterans are awaiting the opportunity to participate in the Program, reflecting their growing interest and demand for agricultural training.

The Program not only enhances the employability of veterans but also contributes to the overall growth and sustainability of Florida’s agriculture industry by integrating skilled, disciplined individuals into its workforce.

If you would like to learn more about the Veterans Florida Agriculture Program, please apply today at veteransflorida.org/register or email gerena@veteransflorida.org.