The Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) Program supports the advancement of Minnesota’s agricultural and renewable energy industries.
The AGRI Sustainable Agriculture Demonstration Grant is taking applications through Dec. 12 for projects that explore the energy efficiency, environmental benefit, and profitability of sustainable ag techniques, from production through marketing processes. Project examples can include, but are not limited to:
- Increased environmental sustainability and improved soil health
- Conservation tillage and weed management
- Novel cover crops and crop rotations
- Nutrient and pesticide management, including runoff protection
- Farm-based energy efficiency or production such as wind, methane, or biomass
- Integrated pest management systems for insects, weeds, and diseases
- Seed breeding or conservation
- Livestock production systems or management strategies
- Developing or improving marketing opportunities, including season extension and post-harvest storage and handling
- Novel enterprise diversification, including organic production, using traditional and non-traditional crops and livestock
- Other creative ideas that address farm input reduction or management, conservation, energy, or profitability
Projects will be prioritized that:
- Are led by farmers.
- Benefit a wide range of farmers.
Eligible applicants include:
- Minnesota farmers
- Educational institutions or individuals at educational institutions
- Organizations such as nonprofits, agricultural cooperatives, tribal governments, and local units of government
Note: Non-farmer applicants must meaningfully involve a Minnesota farmer in the project.
Amount available
FY 2025: up to $350,000
You may request up to $50,000 per project. For requests between $25,000 and $50,000, you must provide a dollar-for-dollar match on the amount above $25,000.
