Jan 23 2009
Free money Through SARE Grant
We all would love to get our hands on some free money. The free money I will talk about here comes in the form of a grant. I will be discussing the sustainable, agriculture, research and education grant. You can get up to $6,000 for an individual and $18,000 for a group of three or more people.
Since 1988 the SARE program has helped advance farming systems that are profitable, envirnomentally sound, and good for communities through their nationwide research and education grant program. The grants are offered throughout four regions within the United States.The grants are decided on by a committee.
SARE has several types of grants. They list the following grants:
Research and Education Grants:
Ranging from $30,000 to $150,000. They usually involve scientists, researchers and other interdisciplinary approaches.
Professional Development Grants:
These projects educate Cooperative Extension Services.
Producer Grants:
Ranges from $6,000 to $18,000.
These provide research, marketing and development information for other producers.
On Farm Research/Partnership:
Supports on farm research.
Sustainable Community Innovation:
Forges connections between sustainable agriculture and rural community development.
How to apply for a SARE grant:
1. Obtain a copy of the SARE call for proposals from the appropriate region and be put on the mssiling list for future calls.
2. determine the relevent deadline.
3. Check out other proposals and get decide what you will write your grant on.
4. Submit your proposal
Our farm received a SARE grant for $6,000 to begin our honey operation in 2006. It was my first time writing a grant. But don’t be scared! It is really for the lay person. It is only 3 pages long. I had a lot of help from my local extention office as well. They are always glad to lend a hand!
The only requirement is that you write a progress report and a final report. Both of which are only fill in the blank sort of things. Really no big deal.
As part of our SARE agreement I have educated the masses on how to apply and what good it does…and it really helps out the small farmer!!!! SO if your interested take a look at their website. You can scan through all of the old reports and see what has got funding in the past. Have fun. Oh, and I will be happy to answer whatever questions I can!
