The Department of Agriculture last week announced $8.4 million of competitive grants to support USDA partner organizations that benefit minority farmers. The funding seeks to support training, outreach and technical assistance for socially disadvantaged, Tribal and Veteran farmers and ranchers.
Acting Deputy Agriculture Secretary Michael Scuse says “diverse experiences, background and education are vital to a healthy agricultural sector.” Since 2010, more than $74 million has been invested through the 2501 Program to leverage the work of more than 300 local partners. The 2014 Farm Bill reauthorized the program and expanded assistance to include military veterans. Proposals for these competitive grants must be received by July 29th, 2016, at grants dot gov (www.grants.gov).
From the National Association of Farm Broadcasting news service