Ag Applications
On this page you will find ag-related programs and scholarships that are open to applicants. Know of any programs or scholarship opportunities that have ag roots? Send the details to Sonja at sonja@myradioworks.net.
FFA Legacy Club
Join the FFA "Legacy Club" and donate $1,000 over 1-4 (one to four) years. The first 200 donors will receive a Minnesota FFA Foundation commissioned giclee print by Bonnie Mohr. Donations will go to strengthen new and existing FFA chapters across Minnesota. In addition, you can participate in the fifth year of the Blue Jackets Bright Futures program, providing sponsored FFA jackets to Minnesota youth who are just beginning their FFA Career. For more information, go to the Minnesota FFA Foundation Legacy Club homepage.
Microloan Program
The Minnesota Rural Finance Authority is offering a new microloan program intended for new or under-served borrowers with farm capital needs. The microloan program is a pilot program designed to assist farmers that have modest lending needs and may lack the experience and records typically required by other lenders. Participants in the microloan program can borrow up to $10,000 toward annual supplies such as feed, fertilizer, farm equipment and similar farm assets.
USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is accepting grant proposals for specialty crop research under USDA’s Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. The goal of the program is to fund projects that will increase the competitiveness of specialty crops. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture anticipates a federal allocation of $671,000. Applications from eligible entities will be accepted until May 29, 2013
Advisory Committee on Minority Farmers
USDA is seeking applications for a two-year term to serve on the government’s Advisory Committee on Minority Farmers. The Committee advises the Secretary of Agriculture on matters broadly affecting socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers, and considers strategies, policies, and programs that enhance goals for assisting minority farming and ranching operations. Applications and nominations are due May 31, 2013 and can be found online.
Century & Heritage Farm Program
The deadline for families with a Century or Heritage application is quickly approaching. This program recognizes families that have owned their farm for 100 years (Century Farm) and 150 years (Heritage Farms). Applications are due June 1, 2013 and can be found at the Iowa Department's website.
MNP Ag Literacy Grant
The Minnesota Pork Board is once more offering grants for ag literacy projects. Groups such as FFA chapters, 4-H clubs, and Family, Career and Community Leaders of America chapters, can apply for up to $1,000 in funding .The organization applying for the grant and the project must be in Minnesota.The MPB will award grants based on project idea and financial need. Deadline to apply is June 1, 2013. Visit the Minnesota Pork Board main website for application materials.
Cattlemen's Beef Board
The USDA is seeking nominations for directors to the Cattlemen's Beef Board by June 1, 2013 and Minnesota has one (1) open seat, and will be holding its Beef Caucus on May 21st starting at 10 a.m. at the Minnesota Beef Council Office. To request a nomination packet or for more information, contact the MBC at 952-854-6980. Candidates must be nominated by a certified producer organization and must be received at the Minnesota Beef Council by May 21st.
Heron Lake Watershed District Clean Water Partnership Grant
The HLWD is offering funding for alternative tile intake installation. The program is available to landowners throughout all of Nobles, Jackson, Murray, and Cottonwood Counties. The grant funds are available until June 30, 2013. This grant provides a 75% cost-share not to exceed $300 per intake for the installation of alternative surface tile intakes to replace existing surface tile intakes. Requests for greater than $300 would be approved by the HLWD or respective county on a case-by-case basis. Grants must be submitted by June 30, 2013. If you are interested in replacing your intakes, please call the HLWD office at 507-793-2462; Nobles Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) at 507-376-9150, Jackson SWCD at 507-662-6682, Murray SWCD at 507-836-6990, or Cottonwood SWCD at 507-831-1153.
Working Here Fund Grants
FCSAmerica's Working Here Fund provides grants of up to $2,000 each for projects and organizations that impact the areas of ag education, young and beginning producers, and hunger and nutrition. Applications are due June 30, 2013 and can be found online at the FCSAMerica website.
MnFRAC State Fair Mentor Program
The Minnesota Foundation for Responsible Animal Care (MnFRAC) is inviting college students to serve as a MN State Fair 4-H Animal Science Peer mentor. Persons in these positions will serve as mentors to encourage, model and role-play positive interactions with State Fair visitors to livestock displays. Candidates should be in college, age 18+ with an interest and/or experience in 4-H and livestock exhibits. Applicants must be available the five days of 4-H Livestock Weekend, August 21-25 and will receive a $450 stipend per person, fair entry ticket and 4-H meal tickets. To apply, submit a resume, transcript and statement describing your interest and industry knowledge as well as skills to bring to the position. Applications are due July 1st. For more information, visit the MnFRAC website or email agri...@gmail.com