Maps help us navigate the world, and they not only show us how to get from point A to point B, but, depending on the type of map, they can also help us to see where patterns, clusters, and gaps exist in a spatial environment. As part of KCARD’s state-wide Local Food System Expansion Initiative, a series of interactive maps has been developed to visualize the Kentucky local food system. Stay tuned for parts two and three of the series in the next few weeks. We will present a closer look into local food sales in Kentucky and the various industries that make up the local food system.
The USDA Agricultural Marketing Service recently announced a new grant program for meat processors: the Local Meat Capacity Grant (Local MCap), due on July 19th. For more information on the program including who can apply, what projects are eligible, and how to get started, check out this blog post!
The Kentucky Center for Agriculture and Rural Development (KCARD) will be hosting a series of five “Growing Your Farm and Food Business” webinars this October to assist agricultural producers and food businesses with understanding business fundamentals, identifying grant opportunities, and developing a strategy to seek funding. Webinars will take place from 10:00am – 11:30am Eastern/9:00am -10:30am Central and will be available for later viewing.
This week we are featuring the USDA Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Program Grants. If you're interested in applying, check out the three webinars we have shared! These webinars will give you an inside scoop into crafting your grant proposal and government statistics on local food.
USDA opened the Community Food Project Grants and the Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program Grants (formerly FINI) early this year. There is a super short turn around with applications due on June 3rd and 10th respectively. Also, the USDA Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Program Grants are open with a deadline of June 18. Click to check out more information about the programs.
This week we are featuring the USDA Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program Grants, USDA Rural Business Development Grants, and the USDA Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Program Grants.
The Kentucky Center for Agriculture and Rural Development is a non-profit organization established to facilitate agricultural and rural businesses in Kentucky. We are supported primarily through grants provided by the USDA Rural Cooperative Development Program and the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board. Additional support is provided through our work with partners around the state and through fees charged for select client services.
