Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program Expands Eligible Sectors

Equine businesses across Tennessee can now apply for support through the Tennessee Department of Agriculture's premier cost-share initiative, the Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program (TAEP). The application period for TAEP is October 1-7, 2025.

For the first time, horses, donkeys, and mules may qualify under the Hay Storage, Livestock Equipment, and Livestock Solutions programs. To be eligible, applicants must operate a commercial equine business involved in breeding, training, and/or boarding, with a minimum of 20 head. Horses, donkeys, and mules may be combined to meet this requirement.

"All Tennessee producers contribute to the strength of our state's agricultural economy," Commissioner Charlie Hatcher, D.V.M., said. "By extending TAEP eligibility to equine businesses, we are recognizing their vital role in our communities and making sure they have the resources to grow and remain competitive."

Applications must be submitted online through the TAEP homepage at www.tn.gov/taep between Oct. 1-7, 2025. Paper applications will not be accepted. A valid, applicant-exclusive email address and access to an internet-connected device are required.

Program details are available on the TAEP website. For additional information or application assistance, visit www.tn.gov/taep or call 1-800-342-8206.

Since its launch in 2005, TAEP has invested more than $288 million in over 92,500 producer projects across Tennessee. These investments have helped farmers improve safety, efficiency, and market opportunities while generating an estimated $6.55 in local economic activity for every TAEP dollar spent.

TAEP offers opportunities in hay, livestock, commercial poultry and swine, and row crops. Programs include dairy solutions, genetics, hay equipment, hay storage, herd health, livestock equipment, livestock solutions, poultry grower, row crop solutions, swine producer, and working structures and fence-line systems. The TAEP Producer Diversification program supports investments in agritourism, fruits and vegetables, honeybees, horticulture, organics, and value-added products.