The Arkansas Agriculture Department is accepting applications for the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, made available through funds from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Applications must be submitted to the state agriculture department by April 19.
“These grants help to enhance the specialty crop industry of Arkansas, which includes the growing and selling of fruits, vegetables, floriculture and nuts,” a spokesman said in a news release.
Eligible applicants are non-profit organizations, local, state, and federal government entities, for-profit organizations and colleges and universities.
“Eligible projects must solely enhance the competitiveness of a specialty crop, and benefit more than one individual or organization,” the spokesman said.
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According to the spokesman, applicants may submit proposals on research, promotion, marketing, nutrition, food safety and security, education, increased knowledge and consumption, improved efficiency and reduced costs of distribution systems, conservation, product development, good agricultural practices, good handling practices and good manufacturing practices.
“The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program gives us the ability to receive input from growers, researchers, and non-profits here in Arkansas and design a package that fits our state,” Arkansas Agriculture Secretary Wes Ward said. “Our goal is to help grow the specialty crop industry in Arkansas and the economic impact that goes with it.”
Applicants must submit proposals using the online form at http://www.aad.arkansas.gov/aad-grants. In addition, a two-phase application process will be used. Applicants will submit a project concept proposal, providing an outline of the project’s goals, tasks and budget requirements. After being reviewed by an advisory committee, the AAD will select projects and invite the applicants to submit full applications with further details.
The deadline is April 19. Application information is available at www.aad.arkansas.gov. Details: Christian Olson, AAD Director of Marketing, christian.olson@aad.ar.gov or 501-219-6324.