MDAC Announces Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program Details
MDAC Announces $5.8 Million Available through Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program to Strengthen Local Food Supply Chain
Mississippi's Department of Agriculture and Commerce (MDAC) has partnered with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to administer the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) Program, which will provide over $5.8 million in funding to strengthen local food systems. The program will assist in building resilience in the middle of the supply chain by creating new revenue streams for producers. Through this program's funding, various projects will emerge, leading to the growth of small and medium-sized regional producers.
These projects will result in expanded access to nutrient-rich food options and increased resiliency of the entire supply chain. MDAC will fund projects that expand capacity for processing, aggregation, and distribution of agricultural products, modernize equipment, purchase refrigerated trucks, and implement new technology systems.
The RFSI funds are available as Infrastructure Grants or Equipment-Only Grants. Eligible entities include agricultural producers or processors, institutions, for-profit and nonprofit entities, local governments, and tribal governments. Projects that benefit underserved farmers and ranchers, new and beginning farmers or ranchers, veteran producers, and processors owned by socially disadvantaged individuals will be given priority.
MDAC has planned four meetings and one webinar to educate the public about this program opportunity. The meetings will be held on January 23 in Cleveland, January 25 in Verona, January 30 in Jackson, and February 1 in Hattiesburg. Additionally, the webinar is scheduled for February 2. If you are interested in this program, you can register for the events at https://www.mdac.ms.gov/rfsi/.
The deadline to apply for RFSI's Infrastructure Grant or Equipment-Only Grant is March 15, 2024. To view the Request for Applications, download applications, and obtain additional information about the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program, please visit https://www.mdac.ms.gov/rfsi/.
