Challenge Grant Program
This grant provides funding and resources to early-stage ag-tech businesses in Kentucky to develop and market innovative solutions that enhance the agricultural industry.
The Challenge Grant Program, administered by the Bluegrass AgTech Development Corp (BADC), aims to accelerate agricultural and food innovation across Kentucky by supporting startups that are developing scalable technologies, services, or products in the agtech space. This initiative is a core part of BADC's mission to build a robust agtech ecosystem benefiting farmers, entrepreneurs, and investors within the Commonwealth. Eligible applicants include registered for-profit startup businesses, whether early, growth, or late-stage, that are either already based in Kentucky or willing to establish a presence in the state for at least five years upon selection. The program offers up to $100,000 in grant funding per recipient, provided on a dollar-for-dollar matching basis. Matching funds may consist of cash or in-kind contributions such as staff salaries dedicated to the project. In addition to funding, selected applicants receive mentorship, referrals to professional services, and connections to growers and research teams. Applications for the 2024โ2025 cycle open on November 22, 2024, and are due by March 1, 2025. A panel of judges will review submissions based on several criteria, including relevance to key focus areas, commercialization potential, job creation capacity, and team readiness. Finalists may be invited to provide additional financial documentation and present their business plans to a review panel before winners are selected. To be considered, applicants must align their project with at least one of five challenge focus areas: Ag for the Middle, Resilient Regional Food Systems, Food is Health, Future-Proof Meat & Dairy, or Kentucky Traditions. These areas emphasize innovation in mid-sized farming, sustainable food systems, health-oriented food solutions, animal protein advancements, and traditional Kentucky sectors such as distilled spirits and equine industries. Recipients must commit to maintaining operations in Kentucky through specific conditions such as establishing headquarters, manufacturing, or R&D facilities, or fulfilling job creation targets. The grant funds are distributed in stages contingent on milestone completion and the fulfillment of ongoing operational presence in Kentucky. A final grant agreement outlining mutual responsibilities is executed within 90 days of award notification.
Award Range
Not specified - $100,000
Total Program Funding
Not specified
Number of Awards
Not specified
Matching Requirement
Yes - 1:1
Additional Details
Up to $100,000 per applicant; 1:1 matching required; awards contingent on milestone completion; may include in-kind staff time.
Eligible Applicants
Additional Requirements
Applicants must be registered for-profit businesses in early, growth, or late-stage development with scalable technologies or services aligned to Kentucky's ag and food sectors. Applicants not already in Kentucky must establish and maintain a presence in the state for five years. Matching contributions are required. Past awardees are ineligible for the immediate next round.
Geographic Eligibility
All
Align your proposal clearly with one of the five focus areas; demonstrate scalability and impact; ensure readiness to operate in Kentucky for five years.
Application Opens
Not specified
Application Closes
Not specified
Grantor
Bluegrass AgTech Development Corp
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