The New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) announced that in collaboration with the USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, it is offering over $500,000 in funding to support New Mexico producers. This initiative aims to boost the competitiveness of specialty crops in the state. The opportunity targets individuals and non-federal entities including producer groups, non-profits, trade associations, and colleges/universities.
In a bid to provide necessary guidance to potential applicants, The NMDA will conduct virtual workshops in December, offering valuable insights into the program's requirements and guidelines. Interested individuals and non-federal entities such as producer groups, non-profits, trade associations, and colleges/universities are eligible to apply. Grant funds cannot be awarded to projects solely benefiting a specific commercial product or providing profits to a single organization or individual. The workshops provide an opportunity for interested parties to gain a better understanding of the program and receive guidance on preparing successful grant proposals according to a press release by NMDA.
Speaking about this golden opportunity, "I encourage anyone who is eligible to apply for this grant to take advantage of the free workshops we are offering so our team may guide you along the way," said NM Secretary of Agriculture Jeff Witte according to a press release by NMDA. "We don't want anyone in the New Mexico agriculture community to miss out on this funding opportunity."
When it comes to applying for these grants, before submitting proposals by the February 14, 2024 deadline, applicants should carefully consider their eligibility for federal funds, necessary expenses, infrastructure requirements, project timeframe, potential beneficiaries partnerships reimbursement procedures and other relevant factors. The USDA allocates funding to state departments of agriculture as part of the Farm Bill. The program's overarching goal is to improve food access in underserved communities and enhance the development of local and rural food systems. Project proposals should prioritize areas such as marketing, training, certification, food safety, pest control, or plant health for the benefit of specialty crops. Submissions will undergo a thorough review by a panel of experts and NMDA staff according to a press release by NMDA.
