Michigan businesses have the chance to access grant funding of up to $365,600 through the Food Safety Education Fund program. The annual grant cycle, spanning from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024, invites proposals for food safety education and training initiatives. The funding is sourced from assessments on Michigan food establishment licenses, ranging from $3.00 to $5.00 per license.
During the 2023-2024 grant cycle, $242,500 is available for consumer food safety education. An additional $114,100 is designated for training employees of food service establishments, local health departments, and MDARD staff responsible for food safety in Michigan.
Eligible applicants include governmental and non-profit organizations, with the exclusion of producers, processors, marketers, and growers. Proposals with sub-grantees will be considered, but routine training like HACCP and manager certification should not be included in the proposals.
Proposals will be evaluated based on criteria such as improving food safety, statewide need, measurable outcomes, partnerships, matching funds, and the potential to build upon previous projects.
The deadline for electronic submissions is 5 p.m. on Friday, July 21. Alternatively, hard copy submissions must be postmarked no later than Monday, July 17. For more information and submission guidelines can be found on the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development's website.
Michigan businesses should seize this funding opportunity to enhance food safety practices in the state. It's a valuable chance to receive financial support for initiatives that promote a safe and secure food supply chain.
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Categories: Michigan, Education, Rural Lifestyle, Farm Safety