LANSING, Mich. - State Representative Dudley Spade (D-Tipton) today announced that more than $1 million in grants is being made available nationwide to enhance agricultural product marketing. Through a program administered by Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA), the USDA Federal-State Marketing Improvement Program (FSMIP) will distribute $1.3 million in federal matching funds to the nation's food and agriculture industry.
"Lenawee County's agricultural industry is at the heart of our economy and it is crucial that we recognize and overcome the barriers and challenges that our farmers and other agricultural businesses face in marketing and selling their products," Rep. Spade said. "It is crucial that Lenawee County's voice is heard in this discussion and this program is an excellent opportunity for local groups to put forth their proposals to address these problems."
Reflecting the growing diversity of U.S. agriculture, eligible categories include: livestock, livestock products, food and feed crops, fish and shellfish, horticulture, grapes, bees, forest products and processed or manufactured products derived from those commodities. Small, medium and large-scale agricultural entities are invited to participate by submitting proposals that would benefit multiple producers or agri-businesses, and focus on market research and feasibility study needs (not on promotion or advertising). Proposals may deal with barriers, challenges or opportunities present at any point in the marketing chain, including: direct, wholesale, and retail. Proposals reflecting a collaborative approach between states, academia and the farm sector are of particular interest.