Press Releases
Comer urges specialty crop producers to seek federal funding for projects
For Immediate Release
Monday, April 7, 2014
For more information contact:
Ted Sloan
(502) 564-1138
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Agriculture Commissioner James Comer encourages eligible Kentucky entities to apply for funding from the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program.
“This sector of Kentucky agriculture has enormous potential for growth,” Commissioner Comer said. “This funding will help us to realize that potential. I urge all eligible businesses and organizations to send us your proposals for growing your operations and the industry as a whole.”
The U.S. Department of Agriculture defines “specialty crops” as fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, and horticulture and nursery crops. The Kentucky Department of Agriculture administers the U.S. Department of Agriculture grant in Kentucky.
Eligible commodity groups, agriculture organizations, colleges and universities, producers, municipalities, state agencies, and nonprofit organizations may apply for funding under the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. Projects “must aim to enhance the production and competitiveness of Kentucky specialty crops,” according to the grant application. Applicants must live in Kentucky or have their business or educational affiliation in the Commonwealth.
A selection committee will review the applications and select the projects that have the greatest impact on Kentucky’s specialty crop industry. Successful applicants may be awarded up to $50,000. Matching funds are encouraged but not required.
Applications must be submitted by close of business June 2. Applications sent by mail must be postmarked no later than May 31. Grant awards will be announced this fall.
For more information, including a downloadable application and application requirements, go to the Specialty Crop Block Grant page on the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s website at www.kyagr.com/marketing/crop-block-grant.html or contact KDA marketing specialist Joshua Lindau at (502) 564-4983 or joshua.lindau@ky.gov.
