The North Dakota Department of Commerce has launched the Rural Food Sustainability Grant Program, aimed at enhancing food access and sustainability while promoting economic development in rural areas. The program supports sustainable grocery services, improved food access, and the expansion of rural food co-ops.
Emma Cook, the Community Development Liaison for Commerce, voices the department's dedication to uplift the wealth and quality of life in North Dakota. The core objective of the program is to fortify local food systems, refine grocery supply chains, nurture local collaborations, and champion innovative solutions that can bring about rural development and economic partnerships.
The program's offerings are divided into two significant components:
• Funds for studying the feasibility of food accessibility and expansion, capped at $20,000.
• Grants dedicated to executing sustainable food access projects, reaching up to $300,000.
For those eager to apply, the application phase starts on Sep 8, 2023, and will wrap up by Oct 13, 2023. The lucky awardees will be announced on Oct 24, 2023, and the next phase of the program, Component 2, will kick off in early 2024.
The program is open to various applicants, including nonprofits, local bodies, economic development organizations, and tribal entities, focusing on communities with fewer than 10,000 residents. Matching funds are encouraged but not mandatory. Projects should enhance food access with a solid sustainability plan.
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Categories: North Dakota, General