Minnesota Funding

See current deadlines on the ATTRA website.

Ag. Utilization Research Institute (AURI)
AURI provides expertise and assistance to increase value, demand and market opportunities for agriculturally-based products. AURI is helping to add value to Minnesota agriculture. Applicants are required to match contributions and work with AURI personnel in developing the value added project. For more information call (800) 279-5010 or visit the AURI website.

MN Dept of Ag. Sustainable Ag. Demonstration Grant Program (MDA)
This program funds research/demonstration of farming practices that will promote environmental stewardship/conservation of resources and that improve profitability and quality of life on farms and in rural areas. The grant program has up to $30,000 available. In this round of funding, only proposals that specifically target on-farm research and demonstration projects for cropping systems, soil fertility and energy related projects will be considered. We strongly encourage applicants to work closely with technical advisors (Extension, SWCD, NRCS, consultants, etc.) to design and carry out the project. Deadline for receiving completed applications at the Minnesota Department of Agriculture was March 29, 2010. The application packet is available at: http://www.mda.state.mn.us/en/grants/grants/demogrant.aspx or contact the grant program coordinator Jeanne Ciborowski at 651-201-6217 or Jeanne.Ciborowski@state.mn.us with additional questions.

Minnesota Department of Ag. Conservation Funding Guide
Minnesota is a top state for privately owned farmland set aside or managed to meet conservation goals. Conservation practices on farms can reduce soil erosion, improve water quality, restore wildlife habitat and more. Conservation practices cost money. Fortunately, there are programs that help many farmers pay for conservation. The MN Dept. of Ag. Conservation Funding Guide helps farmers learn about these ever-changing programs - some offered by the MDA but most by other agencies or organizations.