Things all applicants should consider:
- Budget tables (operation revenue and expense; project budget). Are the tables complete and summed correctly? Is it a viable investment?
- Is the measurable results table complete? Reasonable? Have clear, achievable measurables been identified?
- Keep the reviewer in mind. The TAFA Board is made up of ag lenders, agribusiness, and young farmer representatives.
- Tax forms.
- Is the applicable form included? If not, has sufficient justification been provided explaining why a Schedule F was not filed - particularly when an applicant shows it has had previous agriculture income?
- If you have been in agricultural production for a year or more, you should be filing a Schedule F.
- Applicant need:
- Did the applicant clearly indicate why this funding is necessary and why the TAFA Board should make the investment in the project?
- Tell your unique story.
- Why is this funding necessary?
- What distinguishes your application from all the others?
- Application should show how it will grow and support the future of Texas Agriculture. Is this project going to make a significant impact, or will it just support the applicant with a hobby?
- Individual vs. partnership/company. Does the project focus on the benefits to a single person and a unique, quantifiable project? If part of a partnership or company, has sufficient information been provided to explain how the individual will benefit?
- Spelling and Grammar. Consider having someone else read the application before it is submitted.