Local Navy veteran Dave Lesuer (left) has received a $1,000 grant from Tractor Supply Company to support his Saluda-based business, Saluda Grade Farm.

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SALUDA—Local Navy veteran Dave Lesuer recently received a $1,000 grant from Tractor Supply Company to support his Saluda-based business, Saluda Grade Farm. The award is part of Tractor Supply’s national partnership with the Farmer Veteran Coalition, which assists veterans beginning careers in agriculture.

Lesuer is one of 50 veterans nationwide to receive a $1,000 gift card through the Fellowship Fund, a program funded by Tractor Supply’s $100,000 donation to FVC. Now in its seventh year, the initiative has provided more than $650,000 to over 400 farmer veterans across the U.S.

With the grant, Lesuer plans to expand Saluda Grade Farm’s capacity by adding modular greenhouses. The farm specializes in year-round, organically grown lettuce and supports local food programs through grant-funded partnerships.

“Agricultural start-ups can require substantial investment in tools and equipment,” said Jeanette Lombardo, FVC’s executive director. “Support from Tractor Supply helps veterans like Dave contribute directly to their local communities.”

Tractor Supply Executive Vice President and former U.S. Army Captain Colin Yankee emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting veterans as they transition to civilian life. “It is our honor to help them build sustainable businesses, especially in farming and ranching,” he said.

In addition to the Fellowship Fund, Tractor Supply honors military service through its Neighbor’s Club Hometown Heroes program, offering ongoing benefits and discounts to veterans and first responders.

For more information about the Fellowship Fund and other veteran support programs, visit TractorSupply.com/honoringheroes or FarmVetCo.org.