2024 Underserved, Value Added, and Regional Food Systems Grants

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) offers grants aimed at bolstering Michigan's agricultural landscape and food systems. This program is designed to foster value-added agricultural processing and underserved development, expand regional food systems, and enhance access to healthy food options across the state. MDARD's mission, as reflected in this grant program, aligns with strategic efforts to strengthen local economies, promote food security, and support diverse agricultural practices. The program's comprehensive approach indicates a theory of change centered on investing in key areas of agricultural development to create a more resilient and equitable food system. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are diverse entities engaged in Michigan's agricultural and food sectors, including those involved in urban agriculture, farm and flower markets, hoop houses, food hub development, and value-added food processing. The program specifically encourages applications from historically underserved groups, such as Beginning Farmers or Ranchers, Veteran Farmers or Ranchers, Limited Resource Farmers or Ranchers, Socially Disadvantaged Farmers or Ranchers, Socially Disadvantaged Businesses, Women-Owned Small Businesses, and Historically Underserved-owned businesses and entities. The impact goals are to establish, retain, expand, attract, and/or develop these key areas, thereby leading to job creation, increased investment, and improved access to fresh, nutritional foods. The grant program's priorities and focuses are clearly delineated, encompassing a range of projects from urban agriculture initiatives to agro-tourism and innovation. Specific funding areas include farm markets, food hub development, food access and education, value-added food processing, and feasibility studies that promise job creation and investment. Furthermore, outreach, education, and training are emphasized, indicating a commitment to capacity building within the agricultural community. These priorities are strategically chosen to address critical gaps and opportunities within Michigan's food system. Expected outcomes include a strengthened agricultural sector, increased regional food system resilience, and expanded access to healthy food, particularly in underserved communities. Measurable results would likely include the number of new or expanded agricultural businesses, the volume of value-added products, the reach of food access programs, and the economic impact of supported projects. Grants are awarded up to a maximum of $100,000, with a grant period of 18 months, providing substantial support for projects with the potential for significant, sustainable impact.