MDAR Grant FY27- FTPA Farm Transfer Plan Assistance, Farm-Pass, FY28 Round 6+7

The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources is soliciting applications for the Farm Transfer Plan Assistance (Farm-Pass) program for FY28 Rounds 6 and 7. This initiative is designed for owners of commercial farms in Massachusetts who have identified a successor and require professional guidance to develop a comprehensive Farm Transfer Plan. Selected participants will receive one-on-one support from a technical assistance provider to facilitate discussions and create a written plan documenting farm business goals, asset and management transfer strategies, financials, and a stakeholder action plan. While the program provides strategic guidance, technical assistance providers are strictly prohibited from offering legal or tax advice. Eligible applicants must own land used for commercial agriculture as defined by Massachusetts law. Applications are evaluated based on the viability and economic impact of the current business, the successor's potential for success, and the overall readiness of the parties to complete the transfer process. The solicitation prioritizes participants in the Small Business Purchasing Program (SBPP), with non-SBPP submissions only being evaluated if no SBPP bidder meets the best value criteria. The contract duration is approximately one year, with specific start dates depending on whether applications are submitted by December 15, 2026, or April 15, 2027. All bidders must utilize the COMMBUYS portal, agree to the Commonwealth Electronic Funds Transfer program, and submit a completed Supplier Diversity Program Plan Form.