By: Melissa G. Miller
The Kentucky 4-H Foundation is excited to announce the 2016 Agriculture Mini-Grant Winners. The Foundation received 37 applications from 27 counties and all 37 applications were awarded for a total amount of $33,641.83. The Agriculture Mini-Grant program is another way the Foundation is supporting local County 4-H Councils.
Washington County 4-Hers are standing in front of their new country ham curring house that was partially funded with an Agriculture Mini Grant.
Agriculture Mini-Grants provide funds for pilot and exiting programs, new innovative projects, purchase of curriculum, educational tools/equipment and volunteer training. The grants are an opportunity to expand and improve county and club programs and involve more 4-Hers in agricultural projects. The applications for the 2016 agriculture mini-grants ranged in projects from horticulture, gardening, aquatics, truck & tractor pulling, show and sale marketing booklet and much more. To see a full list of all grant recipients, their project titles and grant award amounts CLICK HERE.
Any County 4-H Council, 4-H Club, volunteer leader or extension agent may submit an application. In order for the application to be eligible the project or activity must be related to agriculture; meaning the project or activity that involves 4-H members in learning about agriculture production, marketing, processing, career opportunities, or career preparation. This also includes any projects that strengthen the 4-H members understanding of agriculture and its role in the economy and society, from beginning to advanced levels. The maximum dollar amount is set at $1,000 each. All grant funds shall be matched dollar for dollar with cash by the applicant, in-kind and staff or volunteer time will not be considered as a match.
The Agriculture Mini Grant program helped to support the Campbell County 4-H Horse Camp where 58 youth and 70 adults from 5 counties participated.
The Foundation appointed a selection committee to review applications and select grantees. The selection of grants is based on three priorities including: first priority given to new, innovative, and pilot projects or activities; existing programs will be considered based on financial need; and resources or infrastructure that can be used long-term will be considered by on financial need.
The Foundation would like to say “THANK YOU” to the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board and staff for its support in establishing this grant program.
