Buy Local Grants Applications Open

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) has announced that applications for the 2023 Buy Local, Buy Wisconsin (BLBW) grants are now being accepted. With a total funding pool of up to $200,000, these grants aim to support and enhance Wisconsin's agriculture and food sectors by assisting farms and businesses in the processing, marketing, and distribution of locally grown food products. The grant program promotes increased access to Wisconsin-grown food for consumers and encourages the development of value-added products.

Eligibility and Project Details:

Individuals, groups, or businesses involved in various aspects of Wisconsin's food industry, including production agriculture, food processing, distribution, warehousing, retail food establishments, and agricultural tourism, are eligible to apply. Projects selected for funding will be required to demonstrate increased local food sales, job creation and retention, and new investments. Grants can span up to three years, with funding requests ranging from $5,000 to $50,000. Eligible expenses include personnel compensation, consultant services, and materials.

Selection Process and Impact:

DATCP will utilize a competitive review process to identify the most deserving projects. Contracts for selected projects may be awarded starting in October 2023. Since the inception of the BLBW grant program in 2008, it has received 571 applications amounting to over $19.8 million in funding requests. Of these, 112 projects have been funded, receiving over $2.8 million in grants. Past recipients have contributed to more than $13.89 million in new local food sales, supported the creation and retention of over 400 jobs, and benefited thousands of producers and markets throughout the state.

Application and Contact Information: Interested applicants can find more details and access the grant information and application materials on the DATCP website. For additional information or inquiries, DATCP Grants Specialist Brian Williams can be contacted via email at DATCPdadgrants@wisconsin.gov.

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