Mini-Grants Available through Growth Through Agriculture Program Grants up to $5,000 available

Helena, Mont. – The Montana Department of Agriculture (MDA) announced mini-grant funding is now available through its Growth Through Agriculture (GTA) Program. All projects will need to demonstrate how they expand Montana agriculture, but given the current public health situation with COVID-19, special attention will be paid to projects that strengthen and expand local food offerings, distribution, and infrastructure.“We’re excited to revive our mini-grant program, and now more than ever we need to invest in our food and ag companies,” said Director Ben Thomas. “In particular, we are hoping to see applications that will strengthen and diversify local food options in communities across Montana.”To qualify for consideration, proposals must have practical, near-term relevance involving education, promotion, marketing, travel or other business-related expenses that will stimulate expanded agricultural development, economic activity, and employment growth. The maximum amount for any single application is $5,000 or $2,500 for education, promotion, marketing and travel projects. Eligible applicants include individuals, businesses and industry organizations, public and private agencies, educational institutions, and local governments.Applications can be submitted through the Webgrants system. A review panel comprised of MDA staff with expertise in agricultural marketing and business development will begin evaluating applications on April 13, 2020. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until May 22, 2020. For more information on the GTA Mini-Grant Program, eligibility requirements, application procedures and the award process, visit our website at: https://agr.mt.gov/GTA.The Montana Department of Agriculture’s mission is to protect producers and consumers, and to enhance and develop agriculture and allied industries. For more information on the Montana Department of Agriculture, visit agr.mt.gov.