HDOA Agricultural Grant Workshop, Jan. 16

The Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture is hosting a free Specialty Crop Block Grant Program workshop at the HDOA Maui Conference Room (635 Mua St.) on Jan. 16. from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The federal program, funded by the Farm Bill, provides grants to states to fund projects that solely enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops, such as fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops.

The application process for the 2019 SCBGP is expected to begin in January 2019 so those interested in applying for these grants will receive guidance at these workshops.

The workshop is free, however, registration is required at least two days in advance of the workshop. To register, call (808) 973-9573 or email Nicole.Y.Pfeffer@hawaii.gov.

The program flyer is available online.

The workshops will also include information on marketing services and programs available through HDOA.

“We encourage anyone who is interested in applying for these agricultural block grants to attend these workshops,” said Scott Enright, chairperson of the Hawaiʻi Board of Agriculture. “Department staff will be there to provide information on grant application requirements and tips on how to write a successful grant proposal.”

The Hawaiʻi request for proposals for the 2019 SCBGP will be available in Jan. 2019. Projects selected will be announced in Mar. 2019 with funding to be available in Jan. 2020. It is anticipated that grant funds totaling about $400,000 will be awarded for Hawaiʻi projects.

For more information on the USDA SCBGP visit: https://www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants/scbgp