DOVER, DE — Delaware farmers and food supply chain organizations are gearing up for the renewed round of promising opportunities that the First State Food System Program brings. Initiated by the Delaware Department of Agriculture (DDA) and the Delaware Council on Farm & Food Policy (Council), this program is about to launch its third cycle of grants, opening the door for local entities to boost their capacity, coordinate with community partners, and contribute to building a more resilient Delaware food system.
Since 2022, the Council has awarded just over $1.3 million in funding, breathing life into 26 projects spanning across the state. This previous experience has provided the Council with invaluable insights into the needs of Delaware communities with respect to the food supply chain and food system.
Particular attention will be paid in the upcoming Cycle 3 to projects that address food aggregation, cold storage, and transportation activities. Understanding the project’s broader impact is key, as applicants are expected to elaborate on how their proposed project may benefit more than just one operation, enhance the local food system, and encourage cooperation or resource sharing. Additionally, a sustainability plan should accompany the application, indicating the project’s potential to continue beyond the life of the grant funding.
Applicants must meet certain prerequisites before they can receive funding. Registration through SAM.gov and acquiring a Unique Entity ID (UEI) is mandatory. This process may take a few weeks, so starting early would be prudent.
Just as in the previous cycle, farmers and food supply chain entities are strongly encouraged to apply. To receive consideration for funding, a farm operation must generate annual sales of at least $20,000 and actively cultivate no more than 300 acres of fruits, vegetables, specialty crops, or other food products for human consumption. Larger producers may also apply, provided their projects include partnerships or collaborations with other local entities or initiatives.
Grant amounts will vary from $2,500 to $150,000, and the completed project must be ready by October 31, 2026, with funds committed no later than December 1, 2025. Funds can be utilized for specific, one-time purchases, such as equipment or other capital expenses, or they can be spread over a variety of operational, administrative, or capital expenses. The closing date for grant applications is Friday, May 10, 2024.
The Delaware Community Foundation (DCF) is collaborating with the Council in facilitating the First State Food System Program through its grant application portal. This alliance will streamline the application process and shed light on other opportunities offered by DCF, although it should be noted that this is not a DCF grant program.
This program’s funding is courtesy of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), enacted by President Joe Biden, and supported by Delaware’s congressional delegation, including U.S. Senators Tom Carper and Chris Coons, and Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester.
All questions regarding this grant program should be sent to DDA_farmandfoodpolicy@delaware.gov, and for any technical assistance with the DCF grant portal, applicants can reach out to Kelly Sheridan at ksheridan@delcf.org.
By energizing Delaware’s food system, the First State Food System Program is set to play a pivotal role in transforming the state’s agricultural landscape and fortifying its food supply chain against future challenges.
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