Michigan Local Food Council Network Seed Grant Program Request for Proposals 2023

The Michigan Local Food Council Network Seed Grant Program offers up to $5,000 in funds to help local food councils build capacity and accomplish their goals.

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Development of a connected set of active, high-capacity local food councils in Michigan will help address local food and food policy issues, build local food leaders, advance equity in the food system, and accelerate progress on the collective goals of the Michigan Good Food Charter.

These grants, up to $5,000, offer support for existing councils to expand their capacity and newly-forming councils to accelerate their development. The grant program also aims to increase connection and opportunities for peer-to-peer learning among Michigan’s councils through participation in the MLFCN. 

What can the funds be used for?

  • Hiring staff or consultant(s) to support local food council development and/or council operations
  • Supporting councils in building internal fund development capacity or hiring consultant(s) to aid in fund development
  • Conducting strategic planning
  • Conducting community food systems or community food policy assessments
  • Conducting equity or food justice training
  • Supporting communications materials development and/or publication
  • Providing training for council members and/or general public on food councils, food systems, or related topics
  • Facilitating equitable participation in food council events or activities, such as:
    • Provision of childcare at events or activities
    • Provision of food at events or activities
    • Stipends for council or MLFCN meeting participation
  • Funding via stipends, mileage reimbursements or per diem food expenses for local food council members’ attendance at events such as site visits with local food councils in peer communities or educational experiences relevant to food council goals

The list above is not meant to be exhaustive and grant funds may be requested for other areas. 

How to Apply

Proposals are due January 11, 2023 at 6pm. Grants are announced January 30, 2023. 

For more information or questions on the grant funding or review team nominations, contact Liz Gensler at gensler@msu.edu. 

 

 

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