A previous Michigan State University Extension article highlighted general guidelines to grant funding for growers in Michigan. This article places a specific emphasis on the North Central Region SARE Farmer/Rancher Grant Program. The NCR SARE farmer/rancher grant program is a competitive grant program that is focused on promoting sustainable agriculture in the North Central Region. Projects typically result in environmental, economic, and social impacts and usually fall into one of three categories: on-farm research, demonstration, or education. Please hurry, online applications are due by November 14, 2013.

There are several tips that can increase your chances of developing a successful grant proposal. First, define a clear problem or topic that you will be addressing. Examples of successful grant topics include: “Development of a cooperative food distribution model for small farms” as well as “Activating soil fertility in mulch-prepared small-plot commercial no-till”. Second, review previous SARE-funded proposals on the SARE website. Not only will you learn what projects SARE has funded over the last several years, but this will also help you make use of existing knowledge: one of the evaluation criterions. Third, review the evaluation criteria, which you can find on the NCR SARE Farmer Rancher Grant Program website. Fourth, be sure to include an outreach component. Results should be disseminated through a field day or other form of outreach. Finally, contact MSU Extension educators, NCR SARE Staff and USDA NRCS staff to help with the project concept and to inquire about writing a letter of support for your grant.

Grant Specifics: Projects can last up to 22 months. Individual farmers can apply for up to $7500, partner grants are eligible for $15,000, and group proposals are eligible for up to $22,500.

If you have grant specific questions please view the online informational webinar or contact contact NCR SARE at (612)-626-3113 or email: ncrsare@umn.org.