Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program Increases Maximums for Select Programs

Dec 29, 2025


Ray Lyons and Kyle with headgate

The Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) has increased cost-share maximums for select programs within the Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program (TAEP) for the 2025–26 program year. The updates support farm families across the state and help producers continue investing in their operations.

 

Established in 2005, TAEP provides cost-share funding to help agricultural producers improve farm efficiency, safety, and profitability while strengthening rural communities. The program reimburses approved applicants at a 50% cost share of eligible expenses, up to program-specific maximums.

 

Four TAEP programs will see increased cost-share maximums. The updated amounts will be reflected in approval and reimbursement documentation for approved applicants.

·      Genetics increased from $2,000 to $3,000.

·      Livestock Equipment increased from $2,000 to $3,000.

·      Hay Storage increased from $7,000 to $8,000.

·      Working Structures and Fenceline Systems increased from $4,000 to $5,000.

 

Applicants who have already submitted materials for the program cycle should be aware of upcoming notification timelines. Approval notifications were mailed Dec. 1, 2025, and emailed Dec. 2, 2025. Applicants should allow two weeks for mail delivery and are encouraged to check spam or junk folders for email notifications.

 

Producer Diversification approval notifications are scheduled to be released by Dec. 31, 2025. All remaining notifications will be mailed by Jan. 15, 2026.

 

Program enhancements were made possible with the support of Gov. Bill Lee’s administration, including Commissioner Andy Holt. His leadership helps ensure Tennessee agriculture remains strong and competitive.

 

For more information about the Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program, visit Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program (TAEP).


For a look at new livestock equipment or fenceline systems available to purchase on the Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program, visit your local Co-op.

 

 

Read More News

Mar 02, 2026
Beef and forage production and marketing, the cost of synchronizing/breeding beef cattle, replacement heifer selection, and updates on new technology and equipment for the beef industry will be discussed during the Southeast TN Beef Summit, scheduled for April 24 at the McMinn County Expo Center inside the Athens Regional Park in Athens. The event is free to attend, but pre-registration is required by April 17, 2026.
 
Feb 23, 2026
The University of Tennessee Gardens, Knoxville, is excited to announce the return of a fun-filled summer program for teens, age 13 through high school seniors, who have disabilities. Registration is now open for the three-week Sow 2 Grow Level 1 – Basics program, which begins May 26.
 
Feb 16, 2026
Tennessee’s agricultural fairs across the state were recognized for excellence during the Fairs’ Merit Awards at the 104th Tennessee Association of Fairs (TAF) Convention, held Jan. 15–17 in Murfreesboro.