Current Programs
The American Lamb Board (ALB) is soliciting applications for the second round of its fiscal year 2009 cooperative funding programs: the 2009 Matching Grant Program and the 2009 Supplier Cooperative Funding Program. Both programs are designed to further the goals and objectives of ALB's strategic plan and all funds must be used to promote only American lamb. The deadline for submitting applications is June 30, 2009.
The Industry Matching Grant program was designed to fund projects and activities that promote American lamb. ALB strongly encourages that all projects and activities are a collaborative partnership between the suppliers, first handlers, retailers, promotions and festivals, research and education entities, foodservice operators, etc. All grants require a one-to-one cash match from the grant recipient.
The Supplier Cooperative Funding Program is designed to encourage American lamb suppliers to promote American lamb products in the retail and/or foodservice sector. The funds are intended for suppliers who are prepared to share the cost of marketing American lamb through retail or foodservice promotions.
The application can be downloaded at www.lambcheckoff.com. To receive additional information, call ALB at 866-327-5262.
Ongoing Programs
Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program
The Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES) anticipates a new funding opportunity called the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program (BFRDP). To support the nation's beginning farmers and ranchers, the BFRDP will make competitive grants to new and established local and regional training, education, outreach, and technical assistance initiatives that address the needs of beginning farmers and ranchers. Please see http://www.csrees.usda.gov/business/reporting/stakeholder/bfrdp.html for more information about the BFRDP.
USDA Rural Development
Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Grant Program
Grant funding available to help agricultural producers and rural small businesses reduce energy costs and consumption. Nationally, $23 million in competitive grants funds are available to fund the purchase of RE systems and installation of energy efficiency improvements. 25% grants up to $500,000 for eligible projects. Renewable sources can include energy derived from wind, solar, biomass, or geothermal sources; or hydrogen derived from biomass or water using those same sources. For efficiency projects, a minimum 15% energy conservation is required.
Contact: Lyn Millhiser, Business and Cooperative Programs Specialist,
USDA Rural Development - VT and NH, Third Floor City Center
89 Main Street, Montpelier, VT 05602
802-828-6069
www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/coops/vadg.htm
Northeast Region Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program, (SARE)
Offer farmer/grower grants; research and education grants; professional development grants, and sustainable farmer educator grants
www.uvm.edu/~nesare
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance
Agriculture categories include:
