The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is allocating $7.4 million to fund 25 grants that support urban agriculture and innovative production. The grants will benefit community gardens, nonprofit farms, and other projects that aim to increase food production and access in economically distressed areas. Additionally, they will provide job training, education, and help partners develop business plans and zoning proposals.
The grants are part of USDA's Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (OUAIP) initiative, which has already funded $40 million in projects since 2020. This year, the program received over 300 applications, double the number from the previous year, showcasing the growing interest and importance of supporting urban agriculture.
USDA's Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation, Robert Bonnie, expressed enthusiasm for the program's positive impacts and its support for local and regional food systems and underserved communities.
The grants are split into two categories: planning projects and implementation projects. Planning projects focus on food access, education, business planning, start-up costs for new farmers, urban forestry, and zoning. Implementation projects support agricultural practices that benefit multiple farmers and improve local food access, such as infrastructure development, education, and policy implementation.
The grants cover projects in 16 states and territories, aiming to strengthen urban agriculture and make fresh, healthy food more accessible to all.
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Categories: Indiana, Government & Policy