This application is for the 2024 Produce Safety Mini-Grant. The Produce Safety Mini-Grant helps reimburse Minnesota produce farmers for expenses that improve on-farm food safety systems. Complete grant details are available on the Mini-Grant Overview page.
Amount available
The Produce Safety Program has approximately $33,600 to distribute via this mini-grant. The grant provides reimbursement up to $800 per farm. No matching funds from the applicant are required.
Who can apply?
Produce growers who farm in Minnesota, who:
- Grow and sell one or more of the following crops: Leafy greens, apples, berries, carrots, cucumbers, garlic, green beans, herbs, melons, microgreens, mushrooms, onions, peppers, sprouts, summer squash/zucchini, tomatoes.
- Have completed the Minnesota Department of Agriculture Produce Safety Program Grower Questionnaire at least once between 2021-2024.
- Are in good standing and not debarred or suspended to receive state or federal funds.
Application instructions
- Applications are due by March 30, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. Central Time.
- Answer all the questions that have an asterisk symbol (*) indicating they are required. Note that answering additional questions may help you be considered in additional drawing rounds.
- If you have attended an applicable produce safety training and want to receive consideration for being drawn in that category you must include a copy of a certificate of attendance for a Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule Grower Training or a Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) training offered by the University of Minnesota Extension.
Questions
- For questions, please contact the Produce Safety Program via email at ProduceSafety.MDA@State.mn.us or call 651-539-3648.
- Questions about the grant must be submitted by March 22, 2024 at 4:00pm.
