Funds available to support Colorado food and agriculture businesses

The application deadline for the Enrich Colorado Agriculture Grant Program is quickly approaching. Grant funds are available to help Colorado companies conduct research and develop new uses and markets for food and agricultural products that are grown, raised or processed in Colorado.

“Our goal is to help local businesses break into new markets and develop a sound basis for future growth,” said Tom Lipetzky, Colorado Department of Agriculture Markets division director. “We are able to support a wide range of projects with this program and encourage entrepreneurs, producers, manufacturers, research teams and local entities to apply.”

Projects eligible for funding include, but are not limited to, feasibility studies and technical projects such as assessing the potential of establishing an agricultural value-added business project; and marketing and sales promotion projects such as first-time participation in trade shows, new product launches and promotions supporting the development of new sales channels. The maximum award per project is $15,000.

“Access to funding is difficult for most to find, especially in the food industry,” said Shaina Knight, business development specialist with the Colorado Department of Agriculture. “This grant offers an opportunity to accomplish projects that have an impact not only on the grant recipient, but also on the local economy.”

A matching contribution of cash and in-kind resources equal to at least 50 percent of the total project budget is required. Applications are due by 3:30 pm on February 27, 2015.

For more information including an application and program guidelines, contact the Colorado Department of Agriculture Markets Division at 303-869-9176 or visit www.coloradoagriculture.com.