The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has announced the launch of the Biofertilizer Innovation and Efficiency Pilot Program. The initiative aims to support farmers in improving nitrogen management and adopting new technologies that benefit water quality and soil health.
Applications for the 2026 growing season opened on March 2 and will be accepted until May 1, on a first-come, first-served basis. Farmers who participate may receive $15 per acre if they reduce their commercial nitrogen fertilizer application rate by either 15% or up to 30 pounds per acre when using approved biofertilizer products.
“This program is about supporting farmers who want to try new approaches to nutrient management while maintaining productivity,” said MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen. “By incentivizing the use of biofertilizers and precision technologies, we can reduce nitrogen loss and protect Minnesota’s water resources.”
The pilot program will run during the 2026 and 2027 growing seasons. Eligible farmers can enroll between 40 and 3,000 acres in certain counties across Minnesota. The MDA may limit the number of acres enrolled per applicant. The program covers all crops with a University of Minnesota-recommended nitrogen fertilizer rate, provided that registered biofertilizer products are used.
To apply, farmers must register in the State of Minnesota’s SWIFT system for a vendor number before submitting an electronic application form.
According to its official website, the MDA employs around 450 people and is responsible for safeguarding food supplies, protecting the environment, regulating fertilizers and pesticides, as well as promoting economic growth in agriculture throughout Minnesota. Led by Commissioner Thom Petersen, it also builds partnerships with stakeholders to enhance services in the state’s food and agriculture sector.
The department’s work includes regulatory oversight to ensure crop protection, environmental safety measures related to fertilizers such as those featured in this pilot program, and ongoing support for sustainable agricultural practices statewide.
