Illinois is injecting $6.4 million into a competitive grant program, the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) initiative. Developed in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the program aims to strengthen the state's food supply chain. Starting January 22, 2024, eligible entities, including food and farm businesses, nonprofits, local governments, universities, schools, and hospitals, can apply for these competitive grants.
Governor JB Pritzker underscores the program's role in building on Illinois' local food investments. By supporting small and mid-sized producers, the initiative seeks to expand access to fresh, local products, fortify local economies, and enhance the overall food supply chain.
Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton emphasizes the program's significance in addressing food insecurity. The grants aim to bring fresh, nutrient-dense food closer to every community in Illinois. The program encourages applications from local BIPOC, women-owned, and veteran farmers.
The RFSI program focuses on building resilience in the middle of the food supply chain, supporting activities post-harvest and before retail sale. This includes processing, manufacturing, storing, transporting, wholesaling, and distributing locally and regionally produced food. The funds specifically target food system crops and products for human consumption, excluding meat and poultry products.
Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, sees this investment as an opportunity to support small and underserved farmers and business owners in the state. The collaboration with the USDA aims to fund infrastructure and food supply chain improvements that benefit both Illinois and the nation.
The grants are divided into two categories:
- Infrastructure: Focused on expanding capacity and infrastructure.
- Equipment Only: Funding the cost of equipment.
Illinois Farm Bureau President Brian Duncan underscores that RFSI grants will strengthen the middle of the food supply chain, securing the future of farming by providing resources for growth, product launches, and improved distribution.
The state's priorities are shaped by stakeholder engagement, including listening sessions conducted by the University of Illinois Extension in collaboration with IDOA. More than 300 stakeholders shared insights, and a needs assessment with new and beginning farmers aligned with the listening sessions.
Shelly Nickols-Richardson, Associate Dean and Director of University of Illinois Extension, sees these funds as an opportunity to enhance the local supply chain and fill gaps in the Illinois food system.
Interested parties are encouraged to apply online at the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program by March 15, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. The program particularly welcomes applications from smaller farms, new and beginning farmers, underserved producers, veteran producers, and underserved communities.
For more details, visit the USDA Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure webpage
Photo Credit: illinois-department-of-agriculture
Categories: Illinois, Government & Policy