The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $7.4 million in 25 urban agriculture and innovative production grants to support community gardens and nonprofit farms. The selected projects are part of USDA's Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production and represent various states and territories across the United States.
“This competitive grant program has already had tremendous impacts for communities across the country, and we look forward to partnering with producers and local organizations to support agriculture in the urban landscape while also helps local communities to provide fresh, healthy food,” said Robert Bonnie, USDA’s Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation, according to a July 18 press release from the USDA. “The growing popularity of this grant program shows the importance of our broad support for urban agriculture, local and regional food systems and underserved communities.”
According to the press release, the USDA is investing $7.4 million in 25 grants supporting urban agriculture and innovative production. These grants will go towards projects that seek to increase food production and access in economically distressed areas, provide job training, education, and zoning proposals. These grants expands on previous funding, reflecting USDA's support for urban agriculture through its Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (OUAIP). The competitive grant program received over 300 applications, with only the top 10% selected.
The grants were awarded to 25 planning and implementation projects, the press release reported. Planning projects aim to target food access, education, and start-up costs, supporting new projects with surveys, assessments, design, and planning. Implementation projects accelerate various agricultural practices to improve local food access and may support infrastructure, emerging technologies, and education. The selected projects span 16 states and territories, addressing critical issues in urban communities.
According to the press release, the USDA emphasizes resilient local and regional food production, equitable markets, and access to safe, healthy food. The agency is committed to removing barriers and promoting a diverse, representative workforce. Other USDA efforts include composting and food waste reduction programs, advisory committees for urban agriculture, and support for local food enterprises and farm-to-school programs.
