Applications Being Accepted From Frederick County Farmers For Agriculture Innovation Grants

The deadline to  apply is October 31st.Frederick, Md (KM) Farmers in Frederick County who want to expand or diversify their operations can apply for funding through the Agriculture Innovation Grant Program.The County says grants of $5,000 or more are available for crop and livestock producers, value-added producers, agricultural cooperatives, seafood processors, and primary and secondary timber products  processors. The grants are competitive, and will be scored by committee based on established metrics.The program was launched in 2021, and to date more than $1.5 million has been awarded to the county’s agricultural industry. The county says this funding has helped create more than 150 full time and 150 part time jobs.Each year, the county allocates $250,000 this program, and these funds are distributed to awarded applicants across two grant cycles.”Increasing agricultural innovations is vital to supporting our local farmers, preserving our rich agricultural history, and deepening our commitment to sustainability,” said Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater, in a statement. “These grants will empower farmers to innovate and grow while ensuring that our agricultural sector continues to thrive for generations to come.”Applications will be accepted from now until October 31st.(For more information on the program, or to apply, go on line to https://frederickcountymd.gov/8678/Agricultural-Innovation-Grant. For those who want a paper application form, contact Becca Tucker at 240-739-2013, or by e-mail to RTucker1@FrederickCountyMD.gov)By Kevin McManus