Minnesota farmers have once again demonstrated their strong interest in innovation and stewardship. Demand for the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s (MDA) new Biofertilizer Innovation and Efficiency Pilot Program was so high that the application period for the 2026 growing season closed earlier than expected this March.
The program provides support for farmers who want to reduce commercial nitrogen use by trying approved microbial based biofertilizer products—an approach that can improve soil health and help keep nutrients where crops use them. The program will be available again next year.
Although enrollment for the biofertilizer pilot is now closed, the MDA is offering another opportunity this season to support nitrogen efficiency.
The Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program (MAWQCP) has opened a Request for Proposals (RFP) for its Nitrogen Enhanced Efficiency Fertilizers (N EEF) Discount Program. This initiative provides financial support to agricultural retailers who pass on point-of-sale discounts to farmers purchasing approved nitrification inhibitors, urease inhibitors, or polymer coated urea. These tools can help reduce nitrogen losses to air and water, supporting both environmental quality and long-term soil productivity.
Retailers selected through the competitive RFP will offer these discounts to farmers during the 2026 growing season. While the funding is awarded to retailers, at least 80% of the value must be provided directly to farmers as a discount on eligible fertilizer purchases. Farmers may receive up to $10 per acre on approved N EEF products. These discounts are expected to be available starting in May. Farmers receiving discounts must be MAWQCP certified, working toward certification, or willing to receive program information.
Minnesota farmers continue to show leadership in adopting practices and products that support both economic viability and environmental protection. The response to the biofertilizer program made that clear. We encourage producers who are interested in improving nitrogen efficiency to work with their retailer to explore this additional opportunity for cost share support.
