Our friends at Food Systems Leadership Network have created an easy guide to learn about new funding available.
In early May, the USDA announced $92 million in competitive funding for its 2021 Local Agricultural Marketing Program (LAMP) Grants. This is almost triple the amount of past funding cycles. Funding will be funneled through its Farmers Market Promotion Program, Local Food Promotion Program, and Regional Food Systems Partnership Grants.
In conjunction with increased funding for local and regional food systems, USDA has shifted its match requirements* to make the grants accessible to more organizations and is committed to strengthening outreach to underserved producers and communities, and small and medium agricultural operations. (*Typically these grants require that applicants provide a 25% match to the amount of federal funds requested in their applications. For 2021, applicants have the option of providing only a 10% match.)
RAFI-USA in partnership with Carolina Farm Stewardship Association hosted a webinar May 24, 2021 to provide an overview of the Farmers Market Promotion Program grant and how to apply. To watch a recording of this webinar click here or view the agenda for additional resources.
Farmers and others involved in local/regional food systems, you can be a grant reviewer!
Applications are being accepted to become a USDA grant reviewer for these grant programs! It’s a great way to hear what’s going on across the country and have a say in how the funds are distributed BIPOC reviewers are encouraged to apply. Apply here.
