[Prepared by Dan Anderson aslan@illinois.edu]

IDoA C-2000 Sustainable Ag Grant Program

http://www.agr.state.il.us/C2000/index.html

The Illinois Department of Agriculture seeks proposals, through its Sustainable Agriculture Grant Program to carry out research, education, and on-farm demonstration projects that address one or more of the purposes listed in the Sustainable Agriculture Act.

Visit the website or contact: Mike Rahe, (217) 785-5594, Mike.Rahe@illinois.gov

IDoA Bureau of Marketing and Promotion

http://www.agr.state.il.us/marketing/Mkt_Organic_Cost_Share_Program.html

The Illinois Department of Agriculture has funds available to reimburse certified organic producers and handlers for certification costs.  To be eligible for reimbursement, an organic production or handling operation must be located within Illinois, comply with the USDA National Organic Program regulations for organic production or handling and have received certification or continuation of certification by a USDA-accredited certifying agent between the eligible dates.

Visit the website or contact: Delayne Reeves,(217) 524-9129, delayne.reeves@illinois.gov

NCR Sustainable Ag Research and Education (SARE)

http://www.sare.org/NCRSARE/

Funded by the USDA, the national Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program supports and promotes sustainable farming and ranching. SARE offers competitive grants and educational opportunities for producers, scientists, educators, institutions, organizations and others exploring sustainable agriculture.

Visit the website or contact: (612) 626-3113, ncrsare@umn.edu

EQIP for Organic Farmers

http://attra.ncat.org/eqip/

NRCS has been authorized to disburse up to $50 million to farmers who submit successful proposals during the next three week period.

This document gives guidance and strategies to applying for up to $20,000 per year or up to $80,000 over a 6 year period for organic farmers and to farmers transitioning to organic farming from the National Resource Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS). But the timeframe is very short—all applications must be submitted between May 11th and May 29th, 2009. TIME HAS BEEN EXTENDED

Also from ATTRA…

Federal Resources for Sustainable Farming and Ranching

http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/federal_resources.html

This publication offers an overview of the major federal conservation programs that provide resources for farmers and ranchers to enhance and maintain sustainable farming and ranching practices. The level of available conservation resources for this area has dramatically increased since 2002. This guide helps farmers and ranchers make their way through the often complex and difficult application processes. Access to these resources can open new opportunities to preserve agricultural lands, develop sustainable practices, and open new markets.