Urban ag and community garden micro-grant applications due April 1

Agriculture Secretary Ed Kee announced that organizations wanting to launch or expand urban agriculture or community garden projects to benefit their neighborhood can apply for new micro-grants from the Delaware Department of Agriculture.

"The last few years have seen tremendous growth and interest in local community agriculture projects across our state, and we want to support that even more," Kee said. "These micro-grants will provide seed money to get gardens off the ground or expand current ventures. They will strengthen their communities; provide nutritious, locally grown foods; and help our young people develop connections to the land."

The micro-grant program offers up to $1,000 per project for supplies, materials, seeds or minor equipment. Under this year's pilot program, $10,000 in reimbursement funding is available statewide.

Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, religious organizations, municipalities, schools or organized neighborhood associations. For-profit businesses and individuals are not eligible.

Applications must be received by 4:30 p.m. Friday, April 1.

For more information and an application, go to de.gov/urbanag, email dda.marketing@state.de.us or call 302-698-4500.