July 2, 2025

Client Spotlight

Brent Lackey

Celebrating Dairy Month with Rowlett’s ...

This Dairy Month, we’re celebrating more than just milk—we’re honoring the hardworking families who bring it to our tables. Just outside Campbellsburg, Kentucky, siblings Sharon and Terry Rowlett turned a family farm challenge into a thriving creamery business. With grit, creativity, and support from KCARD, they transformed their dairy operation into Rowlett’s Milkhouse Creamery—proving that with the right support, rural dreams can grow strong.

June 18, 2025

Grants, Funding, KCARD Services

Brent Lackey

Getting Grant-Ready: A Guide for Farmers and ...

Considering a grant for your farm or food business? Grants can help you grow—but success takes more than a good idea. You’ll need a clear plan, strong documentation, and the ability to manage reporting and reimbursements. Before you apply, make sure the grant fits your goals, you're ready to handle the admin work, and you understand the requirements. With the right prep, grants can be a game-changing investment in your business.

June 11, 2025

Business Development, Recordkeeping

Brent Lackey

From Startup to Structure - A Practical Guide ...

Thinking about incorporating your business into a legal business structure? As your business grows, choosing the right legal structure becomes a key decision. Incorporating can offer protection and perks—but it's not always the right move for everyone. Here's what to consider before making it official.

June 4, 2025

Marketing, Education

Brent Lackey

From Soil to Sale: E-Commerce Platforms That ...

Looking to sell your products online but not sure where to start? This quick guide compares top e-commerce platforms—like Square, Shopify, Local Line, and more—designed for farmers and small businesses. Find the right fit to streamline sales, manage inventory, and grow your business online.

May 29, 2025

Grants, Funding, Financial

Brent Lackey

USDA Local Agriculture Market Program: Overview ...

The USDA's Local Agriculture Market Program (LAMP) includes three key grant opportunities in 2025: the Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP), Local Food Promotion Program (LFPP), and Regional Food System Partnerships (RFSP). These programs support efforts to improve food access, boost market opportunities for local producers, and strengthen regional food systems. Applications are due by June 27, 2025. Learn more about the programs and how to get started in this blog post!

Brent Lackey

October 5, 2018

Business Development

Producing Cosmetic Items in Kentucky

Brent Lackey

October 5, 2018

Business Development

Agricultural producers in Kentucky are using raw agricultural commodities including goat milk, cow’s milk, and various herbs to make soaps and cosmetics.

Brent Lackey

October 5, 2018

Marketing

Instagram for Business 101: All About the VISUALS

Brent Lackey

October 5, 2018

Marketing

Instagram for Business 101: All About the VISUALS

Instagram is an online photo and short video-sharing service that has grown in popularity among teens and young adults. This social media platform allows users to share short videos and photos on Instagram and other social media sites.

Brent Lackey

October 5, 2018

AGFP

New SAM.gov Requirements

Brent Lackey

October 5, 2018

AGFP

If you are planning to apply for a federal grant and new to the sam.gov system, listen up! The System for Award Management just started requiring a notarized, signed letter to register as a new entity before they will activate your SAM.gov entity registration.

About KCARD

The Kentucky Center for Agriculture and Rural Development is a non-profit organization established to facilitate agricultural and rural businesses in Kentucky. We are supported primarily through grants provided by the USDA Rural Cooperative Development Program and the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board. Additional support is provided through our work with partners around the state and through fees charged for select client services.

Contact Us

411 Ring Road
Elizabethtown, KY 42701

p: (859) 550-3972
f: (888) 319-4962

kcard@kcard.info