LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Department of Agriculture (Department) is now accepting applications for the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) program. More than $4.2 million will be awarded to subgrantees to improve food supply chain operations and strengthen local food systems throughout the state. Applications will be accepted through February 16, 2024.
“The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is pleased to help administer the RFSI grant program and looks forward to seeing its positive impacts on our state’s largest industry,” said Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward. “These funds will strengthen Arkansas agriculture by supporting investments to enhance supply chain operations and equipping producers with tools to expand the local food system.”
The Department is offering two grant types under the RFSI program: infrastructure grants and simplified equipment-only grants. Applicants may apply for one grant type only.
Infrastructure Grant funding will support projects focused on the processing, aggregation, and distribution of locally and regionally produced food products as part of the RFSI program. Eligible entities include agricultural producers, processors, nonprofit organizations, local governments, tribal governments, and institutions.