| Grants and business resources |
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| Points for grant seekers |
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- Grants are cyclical—they come and go. If you find something of interest, make sure you understand the criteria and prepare ahead of time for the next round if the grant is already closed for the current year.
- The proposed project must match the criteria that the funding entity has established. Read the criteria carefully and answer all the questions when developing a grant proposal, and be sure to include all required documentation.
- Grants are usually competitive and each proposal will be evaluated on its merits against other proposals.
- Grants bring obligations. If you are successful in securing a grant, you will be required to fulfill all the outcomes, record keeping, reporting, and efforts associated with the funding project.
Help preparing grants
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| Development and marketing |
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Rural Business Opportunity Grants
Grant application deadline is in March. Announcement expected in September 2011.
Who is eligible?
The RBOG program provides grants to nonprofit economic development groups and public bodies & tribes for strategic technical assistance, training, and planning activities that promote "best practices" in sustainable economic development for rural communities with exceptional needs. This is not a grant for individuals or private businesses.
http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/or/rbog.htm
USDA Value-Added Producer Grants
The 2011 round of the Value-added Producer Grant closed August 29, 2011.
If you are interested in this grant, review the links/materials carefully for the next round.
http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/coops/vadg.htm
http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/or/vapg.htm
The VAPG program provides 50%-matching grants to farmers, ranchers, foresters, and fishers for either planning or working capital purposes to implement value-added ventures -- i.e. marketing or processing that add value to the commodities they produce -- as well as for some types of on-farm renewable energy generation projects. The goal of the program is to help agricultural producers generate new products, expand market opportunities, and increase their income from the commodities they produce.
VAPG grants can be used to fund one of the following two activities:
- Planning activities needed to establish a viable value-added marketing opportunity for an agricultural product (e.g. conduct a feasibility study, develop a business plan, develop a marketing plan, legal work); or
- Working capital to operate a value-added business venture that will allow producers to better compete in domestic and international markets (supplies, employee pay, etc.).
- Renewable energy projects are also eligible for this funding (planning or working captal projects).
This grant is very competitive. For more information, please contact:
- Martin Zone, USDA Rural Development , 1201 NE Lloyd Blvd., Ste. 801, Portland, OR 97204-3222, Phone: (503) 414-3361, martin.zone@or.usda.gov
Note: The Oreogn Energy Trust may share the cost to hire a qualified grant consultant to assist applicants in writing proposals for USDA-VAPG energy related projects. To qualify for Energy Trust assistance, the grant must either be located in the Oregon service territory of Pacific Power or Portland General Electric, or have reasonable expectations of a power purchase agreement with one of those utilities. Off-grid projects are not eligible. Eligible renewable technologies include new electricity generation facilities, or new additions to existing facilities, fueled by: wind, solar or geothermal energy; low-emission, non-toxic, solid biomass from wood, forest and field residues; dedicated energy crops available on a renewable basis; landfill gas; digester gas; and hydroelectric facilities located outside protected areas as defined by Federal law in effect in 1999. Consultants must be pre-qualified with Energy Trust and possess demonstrated experience in grant writing. Energy Trust can also assist in identifying a qualified consultant. Energy Trust assistance will be limited to 50 percent of the consultant cost, up to $2,500. For more information contact Oregon Energy Trust at:
Receptionist: 503-493-8888
Fax: 503-546-6862
E-mail: info@energytrust.org
Selling and Buying Local Oregon Agriculture Products!
http://www.oregon.gov/ODA/ADMD/buylocalresources.shtml
Public entities that purchase food through State of Oregon contracts will now be able to buy up to $5,000 worth of locally grown products per transaction as long as those products are within 10 percent of the cost of an out-of-state product. The ability to purchase local products is part of new contracts administered by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) effective October 28, 2010.
Connecting Wholesale Buyers & Sellers
Purchasers interested in sourcing Oregon products are invited to search the Oregon Department of Agriculture's Oregon products database.
Food Hub, a comprehensive membership driven on-line system provides regional buyer and seller connections for fresh produce, meat, seafood and specialty foods.
Southern Oregon buyers may identify farms and products through Rogue Flavor Food Guide, an on-line guide of producers, that can also be ordered as a hard copy.
Willamette Farm & Food Coalition maintains an on-line directory of Lane County food producers
Oregon Farm Direct selling information.
Oregon Farmers' Markets.
More Resources for Small Farmers: http://www.oregon.gov/ODA/new_small_farms.shtml
Specialty Crop Grant Program
http://oregon.gov/ODA/ADMD/grants_spec_crops.shtml
Schedule
January 2012 Request for concept proposals published
February 2012 Concept proposals due to ODA
April 2012 Invitation by ODA to submit grant proposals
May 2012 Grant proposals due to ODA
June 2012 Subgrantee partners selected by ODA
July 2012 ODA state application submitted to USDA
October/November 2012 Award announcements from USDA
For the purposes of this program, specialty crops are defined as commonly recognized fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, and nursery crops (including floriculture and horticulture).
Feed crops, food grains, livestock, dairy products, seafood products and oil seed crops are NOT eligible (so defined in law under the 2008 Farm Bill).
Eligible entities:
Eligible entities include non-profit organizations, for-profit organizations, local, state and federal government entities, including tribal governments, and public and private colleges and universities for proposals that solely benefit the production of and access to Oregon specialty crops.
Applications for grant funds should show how the project potentially impacts and produces measurable outcomes for the specialty crop industry and/or the public rather than a single organization, institution, or individual.
Individual growers, businesses, or organizations can apply for the grant but must show a benefit to a larger group of growers in the specialty crop industry or the public, such as demonstrating research results, holding farm tours of projects for other growers, etc. Must have measurable outcomes and goals. Grant funds will not be awarded for projects that solely provide a profit to a single organization, institution, or individual.
Good Agricultural Practices Cost Share Reimbursement
In order to facilitate greater adoption of USDA’s Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) among a more diverse group of farmers, the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) is offering cost share reimbursement again for 2011 to assist with the costs of GAP certification. It is recognized that the cost of certification is a significant barrier to the adoption of Good Agricultural Practices for small farms and beginning farmers.
Farmers who meet one or both of the following conditions are eligible to receive cost share assistance in 2011:
1. Farms of less than 30 acres
2. Farmers or farm managers that have been producing crops for 10 or less years
Oregon producers or handlers who receive and/or update their certification from a USDA accredited certifier between: May 1, 2011 through December 31, 2011 are eligible to receive reimbursement for 75% of certification fees, up to a maximum of $250.
More information: http://www.oregon.gov/ODA/ADMD/gap_ghp.shtml
Farmland Protection Grant
Deadline for 2011 proposals was February 14, 2011. Applications submitted after this date will be held for the next funding consideration and ranking, likely in federal fiscal year 2012.
The Farm and Ranch Land Protection Program (FRPP) provides matching funds to help purchase development rights to keep productive farm and ranchland in agricultural uses. USDA provides up to 50 percent of the fair market value of the conservation easement.
To qualify, farmland must: be part of a pending offer from a State, tribe, or local farmland protection program; be privately owned; have a conservation plan for highly erodible land; be large enough to sustain agricultural production; be accessible to markets for what the land produces; have adequate infrastructure and agricultural support services; and have surrounding parcels of land that can support long-term agricultural production.
NRCS seeks FRPP proposals from entities that have: an established farm and ranch land protection program; funds to match the federal contribution; authority to hold and manage easements; and the capacity to acquire, manage, and enforce easements. Application must be made by the eligible entities to the NRCS state office in Portland, Oregon.
For application materials and more information, visit the NRCS Web site at: www.or.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/frpp or contact Bari Williams
Easement Program Specialist, (503) 414-3226
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| Foreign and export market |
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Specialty Crop Technical Export Assistance Program
The TASC Program is designed to assist U.S. organizations by providing funding for projects that address sanitary, phytosanitary, and technical barriers that prohibit or threaten the export of U.S. specialty crops. U.S. specialty crops, for the purpose of the TASC Program, are defined to include all cultivated plants, or the products thereof, produced in the U.S., except wheat, feed grains, oilseeds cotton, rice, peanuts, sugar, and tobacco.
Check for deadlines at this website; applications historically due in May. 2012FY applications due May 16, 2011.
http://www.fas.usda.gov/mos/tasc/tasc.asp
ODA Export Market Opportunities/Connections
http://www.oregon.gov/ODA/ADMD/opportunties_and_events.shtml
Learn more about marketing opportunities, educational and promotional events for Oregon and Western US agricultural producers and processors. Selected opportunities and events listed are coordinated by the Oregon Department of Agriculture and our local and regional partners.
Some events may be coordinated by other Western State Departments of Agriculture as part of our membership in the Western US Agricultural Trade Association (WUSATA). These events are are open to all qualified Oregon agricultural producers and processors.
Events are listed by the geographic market they serve and the date of the event.
USDA Quality Samples Program
This grant program is annual. 2012FY applications due May 16, 2011.
SUMMARY: The Quality Samples Program (QSP) helps U.S. agricultural trade organizations provide small samples of their agricultural products to potential importers in emerging markets overseas.
Focusing on industry and manufacturing, as opposed to end-use consumers, it permits potential customers to discover U.S. quality. It also allows manufacturers overseas to do test runs to assess how U.S. food and fiber products can best meet their production needs.
DATES: Proposals usually due in May. Applications received after this date will be considered only if funds are still available.
http://www.fas.usda.gov/mos/programs/QSP.asp
USDA Emerging Markets Program
This is an annual program. Proposals for FY2012 due May 16, 2011.
Purpose. The EMP assists U.S. entities in developing, maintaining, or expanding exports of U.S. agricultural commodities and products by funding technical assistance activities that promote U.S. products in emerging foreign markets. The EMP is intended primarily to support export market development efforts of the private sector, but EMP resources may also be used to assist public organizations.
The Emerging Markets Program is a market access program that provides funding for technical assistance activities intended to promote exports of U.S. agricultural commodities and products to emerging markets in all geographic regions, consistent with U.S. foreign policy.
DATES: Proposals likely due in May. Applications received after this time will be considered only if funds are still available.
http://www.fas.usda.gov/mos/em-markets/em-markets.html
USDA Market Access Program
This is an annual funding opportunity.
DATES: FY2012 project proposals due May 16, 2011.
The Market Access Program (MAP), formerly the Market Promotion Program, uses funds from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) to help U.S. producers, exporters, private companies, and other trade organizations finance promotional activities for U.S. agricultural products. The MAP encourages the development, maintenance, and expansion of commercial export markets for agricultural commodities. Activities financed include consumer promotions, market research, technical assistance, and trade servicing.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Entities wishing to apply for funding assistance should contact the Program Operations Division, Office of Trade Programs, Foreign Agricultural Service, Portals Office Building, Suite 400, 1250 Maryland Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20024, phone:
(202) 720-4327, fax: (202) 720-9361, e-mail: podadmin@fas.usda.gov. Information is also available on the FAS Web site at http://www.fas.usda.gov/mos/programs/map.asp.Or contact the Oregon Department of Agriculture, Ag Marketing and Development Division, at 503-872-6600.
Foreign Market Development Cooperator Program
Purpose: The Cooperator program is designed to create, expand, and maintain foreign markets for U.S. agricultural commodities and products through cost-share assistance. Financial assistance under the Cooperator program will be made available on a competitive basis and applications will be reviewed against the evaluation criteria contained herein. All U.S. agricultural commodities, except tobacco, are eligible for consideration.
Dates: FY2012 project proposals due May 16, 2011.For Further Information Contact: Entities wishing to apply for funding assistance should contact the Program Operations Division, Foreign Agricultural Service, Portals Office Building, Suite 400, 1250 Maryland Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20024, phone: (202) 720-4327, fax: (202) 720-9361, e-mail: podadmin@fas.usda.gov. Information is also available on the Foreign Agricultural Service Web site at http://www.fas.usda.gov/mos/programs/fmdprogram.asp. Oganizations may be approved for funding provided the following three conditions exist: 1. It can be determined that such an agreement will assist in developing, maintaining, or expanding foreign markets for U.S. agricultural commodities. 2. The market development activities would not otherwise be undertaken by a nonprofit U.S. agricultural trade organization. 3. A nonprofit U.S.agricultural trade organization designates a particular private organization to act in its behalf.
Export Assistance
Technical, financial, trade leads, and other assistance from USDA Foreign Agricultural Service.
http://www.fas.usda.gov/agx/exporter_assistance.asp
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| Stewardship & natural resource |
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USDA/NRCS Conservation Innovation Grants
DATES:
Deadline for USDA Conservation Innovation Grant Pre-proposals January 31
WASHINGTON, Jan. 4, 2012 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today reminded applicants that January 31, 2012, is the last day to submit project pre-proposals for fiscal year 2012 Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Pre-proposals support large-scale demonstration projects that test and prove original approaches to conserving America’s private lands.
The remainder of the release can be found at: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/national/newsroom/?cid=STELPRDB1046322
NRCS Financial Assistance for Energy Audits, High Tunnels, and Organic Operations
NRCS Initiatives Offer Financial Assistance for Energy Audits, High Tunnels and Organic Operations
First application period ends February 3, 2012
PORTLAND, Ore. (Nov. 23, 2011) — The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) unveils three initiatives aimed to help producers conserve energy, extend the growing season, and assist organic production; applications for the first ranking period are due by Feb. 3, 2012.
All three initiatives are funded through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program.
The On-Farm Energy Initiative helps producers conserve energy on their agricultural operations. Funds may be used to develop agricultural energy management plans based on energy audits. Funds may also be used to implement recommended energy conservation measures.
The Seasonal High Tunnel Initiative helps producers purchase and erect high tunnels, or hoop houses. The tunnels extend the growing season for high value crops.
The Organic Initiative provides assistance to install conservation practices on agricultural operations that are either certified organic or are working towards organic certification.
Funding is available specifically to address natural resource concerns such as soil erosion, water conservation, or plant condition.
Applications are accepted on a continuous basis with three cutoff dates to allow for ranking applications: Feb. 3, March 30, and June 1, 2012.
For additional information regarding these initiatives, visit the Oregon NRCS website at: www.or.nrcs.usda.gov.
Interested producers can determine their eligibility and submit an application at their nearest USDA Service Center, listed with federal agencies in the telephone book and posted online at: http://www.or.nrcs.usda.gov/contact/basindir.html
Conservation Reserve Highly Erodible Cropland Initiative
USDA Announces CRP Highly Erodible Cropland Initiative
USDA has announced a new conservation initiative that will enable producers to plant wildlife-friendly, long-term cover on as much as 750,000 acres of the nation's most highly erodible cropland through the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). Beginning this summer, producers will be able to enroll land with an erodibility index of 20 or greater in CRP on a continuous basis at their local Farm Service Agency county offices.
National Sustainable Ag Coalition Guide to USDA Programs
http://sustainableagriculture.net/publications/grassrootsguide/farm-bill-programs-and-grants/
2007 Farm Bill Conservation Programs
The 2007 Farm Bill provides many conservation opportunities for growers. The most comprehensive listing of natural resource conservation programs administered by USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service can be found at:
http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/Index.html
Growers are encouraged to review this site; it has more than two dozen grant or cost-share programs and lots of technical resources listed.
Organic certification cost share reimbursement application
The Organic Cost Share Reimbursement Program was approved by Congress and funds made available through the USDA to applicant states. The program provides reimbursement to growers, processors and handlers who obtain organic certification from USDA accredited certifiers (certifying to National Organic Program standards). Oregon received $202,500 in reimbursement funds.
Oregon Department of Agriculture635 Capitol Street NE Salem, OR 97301 Contact: Lindsay Benson Eng Phone: 503-986-4620 Fax: 503-986-4737 Website: www.oregon.gov/ODA/CID Scope: crop, handling Accredited: 8/10/09
Oregon Tilth Certified Organic 260 SW Madison Ave., Suite 106
Corvallis, OR 97333
Contact: Chris Schreiner
Phone: 503-378-0690
E-mail: chris@tilth.org
Website: www.tilth.org
Scope: crop, livestock, wild crop, handling
Accredited: 4/29/02
Stellar Certification Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 1390
Philomath, OR 97370
Contact: Sally Lammers Phone: 541-929-7148
Fax: 541-929-4387
E-mail: info@demeter-usa.org
Scope: crop, livestock, wild crop, handling
Accredited: 4/29/02
How to apply
Oregon producers or handlers certified by USDA accredited certifiers between October 1, 2010 and September 30, 2011 are eligible to receive reimbursement for 75% of certification fees, up to a maximum of $750 per qualifying period.
To request reimbursement you must complete an application form revised 01/11 (pdf) and a W-9 form. In addition, you must submit a copy of your fee invoice and proof you have been certified or re-certified. These documents must show payment and certification for the same year. Incomplete applications will be returned. Completed applications and all necessary documents must be submitted by October 31, 2010. Reimbursements will be made on a first-come first-serve basis until all available funds have been disbursed.
For additional information see Organic Cost Share Reimbursement Program.
Watershed Resortation Grants for Landowners
The next OWEB application deadline is January 18, 2011 for Watershed Council Support grants. And on April 18, 2011 we will be accepting Restoration, Land Acquisition, and Water Acquisition applications. Other potential grant offerings for the April cycle will be determined at the January 18, 2011 Board meeting.
The Small Grant Program is an easy-to-engage-in, competitive grant program that awards funds of up to $10,000 for on-the-ground restoration projects.
http://oregon.gov/OWEB/GRANTS/index.shtml
http://www.oregon.gov/OWEB/GRANTS/grant_app_materials.shtml
US Bureau of Reclamation announced two grant funding opportunities
US Bureau of Reclamation announced two grant funding opportunities.
More information about both opportunities is available at http://www.usbr.gov/WaterSMART/
WaterSMART Water and Energy Efficiency Grant Funding Opportunity Now Available - (November 7, 2011) A WaterSMART Water and Energy Efficiency Grant funding opportunity is now available. The Bureau of Reclamation is seeking proposals from states, Indian tribes, irrigation districts, water districts and other organizations with water or power delivery authority to partner with Reclamation on projects that increase water conservation or result in other improvements that address water supply sustainability in the West. WaterSMART Title XVI
Water Reclamation and Reuse Program Construction Grant Funding Opportunity Now Available - (November 7, 2011) A Title XVI Water Reclamation and Reuse Program grant funding opportunity is now available through WaterSMART. The Bureau of Reclamation is seeking sponsors of congressionally authorized Title XVI projects to request cost-shared funding for the planning, design or construction of those projects.
Improve Sage-Grouse Habitat and Manage Juniper
USDA Provides New Funding to Improve Sage-Grouse Habitat and Manage Juniper Oregon Sign-up Runs Through August 19, 2011.
In Oregon, this initiative will focus primarily on providing financial assistance for removal of juniper in the early stages of succession, working to alleviate the threat of juniper expansion to sage-grouse, improve rangeland health and prevent further resource degradation. This year’s sign-up follows a successful pilot year that resulted in the restoration of over 20,600 acres of prime sage-grouse habitat on private lands in eastern Oregon.
Payment for removing moderately dense juniper typically runs $141 per acre. Practices are funded through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) or the Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP).
Additional practices to alleviate secondary threats to sage-grouse may also be covered, including marking fences to increase their visibility and reduce sage-grouse mortality; installing escape ramps for wildlife in livestock watering troughs; resting treatment areas from grazing to increase residual grass cover and increase grouse nest success; and treating noxious or invasive weeds to improve range condition and sage-grouse habitat.
Contacts:
Baker County Service Center: 541-523-7121
Deschutes & Crook County Service Center: 541-923-4358
Harney County Service Center: 541-573-6446
Lake County Service Center: 541-947-2367
Additional information can also be found on the Oregon NRCS Web site at: www.or.nrcs.usda.gov.
http://www.or.nrcs.usda.gov/news/releases/2011/NR_2011-06-002.html
NRCS Funding Available for Wetland Protection and Habitat Improvement Projects in Oregon
NRCS Funding Available for Wetland Protection and
Habitat Improvement Projects in Oregon
Proposals due on or before February 10, 2012
PORTLAND, Ore. (Jan. 23, 2012) — USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Oregon State Conservationist Ron Alvarado today announced a funding opportunity for wetland protection, restoration and enhancement activities on eligible lands in Oregon. Proposals for projects are due by Feb. 10, 2012. Funding comes through the agency’s Wetlands Reserve Enhancement Program (WREP), with up to $17 million available nationwide.
“This is a great opportunity for Oregon stakeholders to carry out high-priority wetland protection and improve wildlife habitat,” Alvarado said. “WREP is an important conservation tool for our Oregon partners and I encourage eligible organizations to apply.”
WREP is a voluntary conservation program that works through partnership agreements with states, nongovernmental organizations and tribes, as defined in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. WREP is a component of the Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) through which NRCS enters into agreements with eligible partners to leverage resources to carry out wetland protection and improve wildlife habitat.
Benefits to partners in WREP agreements include:
• Wetland Restoration in high-priority areas;
• The ability to cost-share restoration or enhancement components beyond those required by NRCS;
• Participating in management or monitoring of selected project locations; and
• Opportunities to use innovative restoration methods and practices.
Eligible partners may submit general WREP proposals for individual, watershed-wide or larger geographical area projects. WREP partners are required to contribute a financial or technical assistance fund match.
Oregon NRCS will use a competitive process to evaluate the proposals. Recommended proposals will then be competed nationally for final selection and funding.
To submit a proposal or receive information about General WREP, visit http://www.or.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/wrep/index.html or contact Loren Unruh, State Programs Leader, (503) 414-3235, loren.unruh@or.usda.gov. WREP proposals submitted by fax or through Grants.gov will not be accepted.
For more information about NRCS and other programs, visit http://www.or.nrcs.usda.gov/.
USDA & EPA - Pest Management and Pest Management Alternatives
Annual grant process, usually in the spring.
More information is available at http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/grants/grants.htm
Region 10 EPA Grant Page: http://yosemite.epa.gov/R10/HOMEPAGE.NSF/webpage/Grants
US Fish and Wildlife Service: Grants and Other Assistance
Some grants for individuals; some for organizations. All intended to protect, enhance, and promote wildlife.
http://www.fws.gov/grants/
Western Region Sustainable Ag Research and Education Project Grants
CALL FOR PROPOSALS - OPEN: Deadlines vary by grant type. Farmer/Rancher grant applications are due on December 2, 2011. Check the link for updates.
http://wsare.usu.edu/grants
https://wsaregrants.usu.edu/grants/?ok=vw_Docs
With a Farmer/Rancher Grant, one or more agricultural producers develop a proposal to conduct research and/or on-farm demonstrations and educational outreach in an area of sustainable agriculture with assistance from an agricultural or natural resource professional, who serves as a technical advisor. The goal is to achieve results that can be communicated to producers and professionals--information that can improve income, the environment, communities and quality of life for all citizens. With a Professional and Producer Grant, an ag or natural resource professional, working with one or more producers, develops a proposal to conduct research, on-farm demonstration and/or educational outreach in an area of sustainable agriculture. The goal is to achieve results that can be communicated to producers and professionals--information that can improve income, the environment, communities and quality of life for all citizens. Equally important is an opportunity for professionals to expand their knowledge and expertise in sustainable agriculture.
Community Capacity and Land Stewardship Grant
The National Forest Foundation is pleased to announce the first round of the 2012 Community Capacity and Land Stewardship Grant program for Oregon and Washington. The program provides grants of $5,000 to $24,000 to enable community-based organizations and collaborative groups to build their capacity to facilitate and/or implement watershed or landscape-level restoration. Ancillary goals of the program are to build capacity to help meet other objectives associated with the creation of family wage jobs that contribute to the economic sustainability of communities. Proposals are due on or before December 13, 2011 and must be received hard-copy.
For more information, visit
http://nationalforests.org/conserve/grantprograms/capacitybuilding/ccls
Adam J. Liljeblad
Director of Conservation Awards | National Forest Foundation
Building 27, Suite 3 Fort Missoula Rd. Missoula, MT 59804
Direct Line: (406) 830-3357 | Main Office: (406) 542-2805
Direct Fax: (406) 830-3382 | Office Fax: (406) 542-2810
aliljeblad@nationalforests.org
www.nationalforests.org/conserve/grantprograms
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| Research grants |
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USDA National Research Initiative Competitive Grant Program
These grants have various deadlines depending on project type. This is the primary funding initiative for agricultural research. Check for dates and proposal types.
http://www.csrees.usda.gov/fo/funding.cfm
USDA Office of Technology Transfer
Agricultural technology patented by USDA, looking for partnerships to commercialize new products.
http://www.ars.usda.gov/partnering
Specialty Crop Research Initiative
http://www.csrees.usda.gov/fo/specialtycropresearchinitiative.cfm
The Specialty Crop Research Initiative (SCRI) was established to solve critical industry issues through research and extension activities. SCRI will give priority to projects that are multistate, multi-institutional, or trans-disciplinary; and include explicit mechanisms to communicate results to producers and the public. Projects must address at least one of five focus areas: research in plant breeding, genetics, and genomics to improve crop characteristics; efforts to identify and address threats from pests and diseases, including threats to specialty crop pollinators; efforts to improve production efficiency, productivity, and profitability over the long term; new innovations and technology, including improved mechanization and technologies that delay or inhibit ripening; and methods to prevent, detect, monitor, control, and respond to potential food safety hazards in the production and processing of specialty crops.
Due January 31, 2011; watch for future announcements if interested.
BioMass and Renewable Energy Research
Both USDA and the US Dept. of Energy will be investing in biomass research and development in the coming years. Resources vary by announcement.
Farm Bill Renewable Energy Resources, Grants, etc.
http://www1.eere.energy.gov/biomass/financial_opportunities.html
The Kellog Foundation: Food Systems and Rural Development Overview
Largely limited to research organizations.
http://www.wkkf.org/Programming/Overview.aspx?CID=4
Small Business Innovation & Research Grants and Technology Transfer Program
Eligibility: under 500 employees, for-profit organization, 51% owned by individuals, based in U.S.
This grant is for entities interested in doing work outlined by federal agencies -- if it fits your business strategy and focus, investigate it further. Phase I grants are to test an idea; Phase II grants are additional funding to carry the idea to commercialization. Involves 40-200 hours in grant preparation and 2-5 years through the entire funding process for Phase I and II. No matching requirements.
Research areas are extensive, and include: Forests and Related Resources; Plant Production and Protection; Animal Production and Protection; Air, Water, and Soils; Food Science and Nutrition; Rural and Community Development; Aquaculture; Industrial Applications; Marketing and Trade; Wildlife; Animal Waste Management; Small and Mid-Size Farms.
http://www.csrees.usda.gov/funding/rfas/sbir_rfa.html
Other resources:
The Government Contract Assistance Program
http://www.zyn.com/sbir/
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| Business management info. |
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A Review of Strategic Thinking for Today's Agriculture Industry
http://oregon.gov/ODA/docs/pdf/grant_strategic.pdf
Typical business plan segments
http://oregon.gov/ODA/grants_business_plan.shtml
What Can I do on a Small Farm? (link to OSU site)
http://ir.library.oregonstate.edu/xmlui/bitstream/handle/1957/19582/ec1529.pdf
Options on small farms (link to OSU site)
Small Farms Program at Oregon State University
Farmer-to-Consumer Marketing #1 An Overview
Farmer-to-Consumer Marketing #2: Production and Marketing Costs
Farmer-to-Consumer Marketing #3: Merchandising, Pricing, and Promotional Strategies
Farmer-to-Consumer Marketing #4: Place of Business and Product Quality
Farmer-to-Consumer Marketing #5: Personnel Management
Farmer-to-Consumer Marketing #6: Financial Management
Marketing Alternatives for Fresh Produce
Small Farm Funding Sources
http://www.nal.usda.gov/ric/ricpubs/small_farm_funding.htm
http://www.nifa.usda.gov/familysmallfarms.cfm
Multiple Resources for Small Business Management
Microenterprise Institute of Oregon
http://www.oregon-microbiz.org/
Starting a Business in Oregon
http://www.filinginoregon.com
http://www.filinginoregon.com/pages/forms/business/guides/2011_Starting_Guide.pdf
Mega-library on Business Management
Incredible library of free material on business management, marketing, staffing, sales, and much more!
http://www.managementhelp.org/
SBA Financial Assistance and Resources
Multiple resources on how to start, finance, manage, and market a business; links to a variety of financial loans and programs to suit capital and credit needs of small businesses; workshop, and other resources. Tools for managing your money, including estimating costs, financial statements, grants, funding, equity capital, contract surety bonds, and more.
Commodity Food Network (CFN)
Provides a single-point-of-contact to all on-line federal resources and services related to the purchase and distribution of USDA commodities.
USDA purchase programs
How small food businesses can take advantage of USDA purchase programs. http://www.ams.usda.gov/AMSv1.0/CPDPurchaseAnnouncements
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| Renewable Energy Grants |
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Link to Agriculture and Energy Website
Oregon farms both consume energy and create many potential feed stocks to generate energy and fuels. The concept of renewable fuels made from biomass and farm or forest-based feedstocks is not necessarily new, but technologies are improving and new opportunities are developing. http://oregon.gov/ODA/energy.shtml
Additional tools/links:
http://www.energymatrix.usda.gov/
Farm Energy Audits and Efficiency Assistance Grants/Loans
Rural Energy For America Program Grants/Renewable Energy Systems/Energy Efficiency Improvement Program (REAP/RES/EEI)
The REAP/RES/EEI Grants Program provides grants for energy audits and renewable energy development assistance. It also provides funds to agricultural producers and rural small businesses to purchase and install renewable energy systems and make energy efficiency improvements.
Rural Energy for America Program (REAP)
REAP is designed to help agricultural producers and rural small businesses reduce energy costs and consumption and help meet the nation's critical energy needs. Through REAP, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is currently accepting renewable energy system and energy efficiency improvement grant applications and combination grant and guaranteed loan applications. USDA is also accepting renewable energy system feasibility study applications.
Applications are due by March 30, 2012.
How much are the grants?
The grants are awarded on a competitive basis and can be up to 25% of total eligible project costs. Grants are limited to $500,000 for renewable energy systems and $250,000 for energy efficiency improvements. Grant requests as low as $2,500 for renewable energy systems and $1,500 for energy efficiency improvements will be considered. At least 20% of the grant funds awarded must be for grants of $20,000 or less.
Rural Energy for America Program (REAP)
USDA is providing funding for up to $61 million in guaranteed loans and $42 million in grants through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). Funds are available to help agricultural producers and rural small businesses develop renewable energy systems, make energy efficiency improvements and conduct studies to determine the feasibility of renewable energy systems.
Who is eligible?
The program is designed to assist farmers, ranchers and rural small businesses that are able to demonstrate financial need. All agricultural producers, including farmers and ranchers, who gain 50% or more of their gross income from the agricultural operations are eligible. Small businesses that are located in a rural area can also apply. Rural electric cooperatives may also be eligible to apply.
What types of projects are eligible?
Most rural projects that reduce energy use and result in savings for the agricultural producer or small business are eligible as energy efficiency projects. These include projects such as retrofitting lighting or insulation, or purchasing or replacing equipment with more efficiency units. Eligible renewable energy projects include projects that produce energy from wind, solar, biomass, geothermal, hydro power and hydrogen-based sources. The projects can produce any form of energy including, heat, electricity, or fuel.
How to Apply
To apply for funding for the REAP Grant Program please contact your Rural Development State Office.
http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/or/reapee.htm
http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/BCP_ReapResEei.html
Payments in lieu of tax credits for specified energy property
https://treas1603.nrel.gov/ (Treasury page for applications).
Recovery Act Announcement: Energy, Treasury Now Accepting Applications for Funding for Renewable Energy Projects
With the goal of expanding development of renewable energy projects throughout the United States and creating new jobs, the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced they are now accepting applications for a program that will make direct payments in lieu of tax credits to companies that create and place in service renewable energy facilities. The two Departments estimate distributing at least $3 billion in financial support to approximately 5,000 biomass, solar, wind, and other types of renewable energy production facilities. The funding for this effort is made available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. [Not for biofuels].
The Recovery Act authorized Treasury to make direct payments to companies that create and place in service renewable energy facilities beginning January 1, 2009. Previously, these companies could file for a tax credit to cover a portion of the renewable energy project's cost; under the new program, applicants would agree to forgo future tax credits in favor of an immediate reimbursement of a portion of the property expense. The Energy Department will assist Treasury in implementing this program by reviewing the technical merits of the applications.
Companies interested in applying for the program can visit application submission page for more information.
Energy Trust
Energy Trust is announcing a competitive process to allocate limited incentives for certain types of renewable energy facilities.
Facilities affected by this competitive process include wind projects over 100 kW and all biopower, hydroelectric, and geothermal electric projects. Projects proposing to net-meter, sell energy as a Qualifying Facility, or otherwise offset load in Pacific Power service territory, and seeking an Energy Trust incentive greater than $150,000, must now compete for funds.
A total of $2 million will be available for allocation in 2012.
Energy Trust will award funding based on competitive criteria. To apply, proposed projects must satisfactorily demonstrate the ability to begin physical construction by December 31, 2012.
· To be eligible for incentive funding consideration, applicants must submit a complete application by 5:00 pm on February 29, 2012. Energy Trust will notify applicants if their proposed project is determined to be ineligible for incentives.
· If a proposed project is determined to be eligible for incentives, it will be scored based on performance criteria within its technology.
· The final stage of review will evaluate applications across technologies to consider how a proposed project enables Energy Trust to meet its goals. Any incentive offers will be provided to applicants by March 30, 2012.
· Incentive offers less than $500,000 are subject to approval by Energy Trust’s Executive Director. Incentive offers greater than $500,000 are subject to approval by Energy Trust’s Board of Directors.
Energy Trust may recommend funding all, some, or none of the project applications. Offers may be for less than the requested incentive. Funding is subject to availability and may change.
Application materials and process details will be available beginning January 18, 2012.
http://energytrust.org/industrial-and-ag/incentives/agriculture/
For application materials and program requirements, please contact:
Biopower: Thad Roth, thad.roth@energytrust.org, 503.445.7632
Geothermal and Wind: Betsy Kauffman, betsy.kauffman@energytrust.org, 503.459.4072
Hydroelectric: Jed Jorgensen, jed.jorgensen@energytrust.org, 503.445.7611
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Information on grants and financial resources available to Oregon farmers and agricultural businesses is posted to this page as it becomes available. Most of these grants are not ODA resources, but if you have quesions that we can try to answer, contact Brent Searle, 503-986-4558.
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