FREDERICK, Md. – Farmers looking to expand or diversify their operations can apply for funding through Frederick County’s award-winning Agriculture Innovation Grants Program. Applications for the Spring 2024 cycle of grants will be accepted through March 31. Frederick County launched its Agriculture Innovation Grants Program in 2021 to support Frederick County’s agriculture industry.
“Agriculture plays a critical role in our community’s economy,” County Executive Jessica Fitzwater said. “This grant program helps to foster an industry where our farmers are encouraged to think big, to be bold, and to know they have a partner in innovation in Frederick County Government.”
To date, the grant program has awarded approximately $1,389,976 toward 56 Frederick County agriculture projects, which in turn created 146 full-time positions and 176 part-time positions.
Agriculture Innovation Grants of $5,000 or more are available twice a year to crop and livestock producers, value-added producers, agricultural cooperatives, seafood processors, and primary and secondary timber products processors. Funds may be used for research and development, production buildings, major fixtures, or processing facilities. Grants are competitive. A review committee scores all applications based on established metrics and then recommends awards to the County Executive.
Information on the program, including how to apply, is available online from the Frederick County Office of Agriculture at https://frederickcountymd.gov/8678/Agricultural-Innovation-Grant. If a printed application is required, contact Becca Tucker. She can be reached by phone at 240-739-2013 or by email at RTucker1@FrederickCountyMD.gov.
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