Over $1.5 million in grant money is available for agriculture infrastructure in Montana this year.
The Montana Department of Agriculture said this week they are now accepting applications to fund projects through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Agriculture Infrastructure Grant Program.
Grant proposals are due to the department by 5 p.m. on Monday, April 29. The money can be used to cover costs of equipment, facilities upgrades, consultant services, advertising and permission, supplies and materials.
Project activities must take place between June and Dec. 16. No proposal may request more than $450,000. Individuals, businesses and industry orgazations, educational institutions, local governments, and public and private agencies can apply.
“The intent of the Agriculture Infrastructure Grant Program is to advance Montana’s agricultural industry through targeted investments in value-added agriculture projects across the state,” a press release from the Montana Department of Agriculture said.
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“Grants will assist with the development of innovative agricultural business improvements to keep pace with a transforming agricultural industry, create new jobs, and expand business opportunities.”
The ARPA money was originally allocated in 2021 for COVID-19 recovery, fueling the longevity of small businesses and workers during the pandemic. Montana received $7.5 million for the Agriculture Infrastructure Program in 2021 and is released $1.5 million for the second round of funding.
The department is also holding technical assistance calls over Zoom to help people with their application on Thursday, April 18 at 5 p.m. For more information people can email olivia.mays@mt.go or find the link online at https://agr.mt.gov/ARPAGrants.
A full list of eligibility requirements and details on how to apply for the grants is also available on the Montana Department of Agriculture’s website at the link above.