ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Agriculture
(MDA) is accepting grant proposals for specialty crop research and
development. A federal block grant from the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing
Service was authorized under the 2014 Farm Bill and the MDA anticipates funds
for farmers. The goal of the 2014 Specialty Crop Block Grant (SCBG)
Program is to increase specialty crop competitiveness.
The USDA defines specialty
crops as fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery
crops (including floriculture). Non-profits, government agencies, universities
and other organizations involved in Minnesota agriculture are encouraged to
apply for funding to support new and on-going innovative research. MDA is
seeking proposals spanning up to three years and ranging from $10,000 -
$100,000.
SCBG projects may not benefit
individual businesses or organizations. “These are not business development
grants, the funds must address sector-wide opportunities or barriers,” said MDA
program manager, Brian Erickson.
MDA Commissioner Dave
Frederickson makes a strong case for continued support of diversifying our
agricultural economy, “Specialty crop production and marketing provides
opportunities for Minnesota farmers to diversify their operations.”
Frederickson said, “Research into production and marketing of non-traditional
agricultural products will benefit many Minnesotans.”
Examples include nursery and
turf crops, direct-marketed fruits and vegetables, and investments directed
toward the development of the local food systems to help get those products
from farm to table. MDA is accepting applications from eligible entities
submitted electronically by 4:00 p.m. April 30, 2014.
Project review will be provided by an independent panel
with experience growing, marketing, researching and promoting specialty crops.
For a copy of the Minnesota Specialty Crop Block Grant
RFP/Grant Manual, grant application guidance and a fillable application form,
go to http://www.mda.state.mn.us/grants/grants/specialty.aspx
