2017 ISDA livestock grant applications now available

INDIANAPOLIS (Oct. 3, 2016) – The Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) is now accepting applications for the livestock promotion and market development grants to foster growth within the Hoosier livestock industry. Applications are due by December 1, 2016.

“Indiana’s livestock sector continues to be a driving force for food production and has a major impact on our state and local economies,” said Ted McKinney, ISDA Director. “These grants create growth opportunities within the industry and allow livestock organizations to have a greater impact in Indiana through the development of educational programs, promotional events or projects to increase our processing and production capabilities.”

Educational programs, livestock shows/exhibitions, conventions and similar events and projects are eligible to apply for livestock promotion funding. The market development grant provides funding for value-added feasibility studies, research projects, market development and other projects that encourage the development of business and industry related to livestock production, processing and distribution.

Both the livestock promotion and market development grants will reimburse up to 50 percent of the amount spent to conduct or support the projects, programs and events outlined in each of the grants.

The grants are open to non-profit organizations, commissions and associations with 501(c) status involving the following livestock species: cattle, swine, sheep, equine, goats, poultry, camelids, ostriches, cervidae, bison, aquaculture and rabbits.

All grant applications should be sent electronically to Kimmi Devaney at KDevaney@isda.in.gov by December 1, 2016. Award winners will be announced February 1, 2017. Applications are available at www.in.gov/isda/2474.htm. No applications will be accepted after the deadline.

In 2016, $127,000 dollars were awarded to 15 organizations by ISDA to foster growth in the livestock industry throughout Indiana.