SPARKS – The Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) is distributing about $1 million in CARES Act relief funds to help Nevada agriculture businesses adapt, diversify and respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Food supply and stress to agricultural businesses has been a focus for several funding programs during the pandemic, including fresh foods distribution and food insecurity programs.
The new Agriculture Adaptability and Recovery program offers up to $15,000 in combined assistance to approved applications, available to expend through Dec. 15, 2020.
“This program was created to help relieve the stress food and agriculture businesses are facing and ensure a safe and adequate food supply,” NDA Director Jennifer Ott said. “Nevada’s agriculture businesses have not only implemented new procedures to keep their workers and the food supply safe but have also diversified their offerings in order to meet consumer needs during this time.”
Eligible applicants include agriculture employers or producers; farmers markets and food hubs; USDA-approved meat processing facilities; or breweries, wineries, and distilleries that use at least 51 percent Nevada grown product. Applicants must be based in Nevada and be in good standing with the Nevada Secretary of State.
All requirements and guidelines can be viewed in the RFA, and applications and questions should be submitted via email to NVTrade@agri.nv.gov.