NSAC's Blog
USDA Calls for Community Food Project Grant Applications
September 3, 2010
USDA’s National Institute for Food and Agriculture (NIFA) has issued a Request for Applications for the Community Food Project Grants Program (CFP). CFP is a grant program that addresses food insecurity in low income communities by supporting the development of community-based food projects including projects that address nutritional needs by promoting local, food and farm connections.
Applications are due November 17, 2010 and this year all grant applications must be submitted electronically at http://www.grants.gov. NIFA is also inviting comments for consideration in the development of the next RFA. Comments can be submitted by email to RFP-OEP@csrees.usda.gov by November 17th.
There is $5 million available for this round to support two types of grants. Community Food Project grants of up to $125,000 per year or $300,000 over a three year period will provide a one-time infusion of funds to help projects become self sustaining. Planning Grants of up to $25,000 will help groups assess food security needs and plan for long term solutions in low income communities.
The primary purpose of CFP grant funds is to support projects that:
• Meet the food needs of low-income individuals;
• Increase the self-reliance of communities in providing for the food needs of the communities;
• Promote comprehensive responses to local food, farm, and nutrition issues; and
• Meet specific state, local or neighborhood food and agricultural needs including needs relating to:
1. Infrastructure improvement and development;
2. Planning for long-term solutions; or
3. The creation of innovative marketing activities that mutually benefit agricultural producers and low-income consumers
Only private, non-profit entities are eligible for a CSP grant. Applicants must have experience in the area of community food work, particularly concerning small and mid-sized farms, sustainable food production, and development of new markets in low income communities or in providing job training and business development experience for food related activities in low-income communities.
Categories: Grants and Programs, Local & Regional Food Systems