By Andi Anderson
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is rolling out a competitive grant program to boost sustainability in land-based industries and uplift rural community infrastructure throughout Michigan.
MDARD Director Tim Boring stressed the pivotal role of rural communities in Michigan's food and agriculture industry, reiterating the department's commitment to their growth. This grant program focuses on sustainable practices and infrastructure improvements meant to have a lasting impact.
The Rural Development Fund grants are available for projects enhancing land-based industries, worker training in those fields, and improving energy, transportation, housing, communications, water, and wastewater infrastructure in rural communities and micropolitan statistical areas.
Land-based industries encompass sectors such as food and agriculture, forestry, mining, oil and gas production, and tourism. Eligible counties include those with populations of up to 70,000 residents or micropolitan statistical areas. The total funding available this year is approximately $1.8 million, with a maximum grant request of $100,000. All proposals require a minimum 30 percent cash match.
For grant application details, visit the MDARD website. New this year, all applications must be submitted through the MiAgGrants system, with applicants providing three letters of support.
An informational webinar about this grant opportunity is scheduled for November 14, 2023, at 2 p.m. (EST). Inquiries can be sent to mda-grants@michigan.gov. Proposal submissions are due by 3 p.m. (EST) on January 9, 2024.
The Rural Development Fund grants are funded by the Nonferrous Metallic Minerals Extraction Severance Tax, established under PA 411 of 2012, ensuring sustainable growth for Michigan's rural communities.
Photo Credit: pexels-puwadon-sang-ngern
Categories: Michigan, Sustainable Agriculture