SE Illinois News

The Illinois Department of Agriculture has announced the availability of Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) grants, with a total allocation of $6.4 million. These grants aim to support the middle sections of the food supply chain, specifically the post-harvest, pre-retail sale level.

According to the Illinois Department of Agriculture, the mid-level food supply chain includes activities such as processing, manufacturing, storing, and transporting of all non-meat food. The RFSI grants will provide funding for equipment costs and the expansion of capacity and infrastructure in this part of the supply chain.

"The Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure grants are designed to assist smaller farms and ranches, new and beginning farmers and ranchers, underserved producers, veteran producers, and underserved communities," said an official from the Illinois Department of Agriculture.

The decision to allocate these grants was based on extensive feedback from key stakeholders in the food industry. Over 300 distributors, growers, and producers participated in listening sessions aimed at identifying ways to improve the food system in Illinois.

"The input we received from distributors, growers, and producers was invaluable in shaping the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure program," said the official. "We wanted to create a better food system that addresses the needs of our state's agricultural community."

Applications for the RFSI grants will be accepted from January 22 to March 15. Interested parties can find more information and access the application forms on the Illinois Department of Agriculture's website at https://agr.illinois.gov/assistance/illinoisfarmprograms/resilient-food-systems-infrastructure-program.html.

This initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the future of farming in Illinois. By providing financial assistance and support to smaller farms, new farmers, and underserved communities, the RFSI grants aim to enhance the resilience and efficiency of the state's food supply chain.

With the allocation of $6.4 million in funding, the Illinois Department of Agriculture is demonstrating its commitment to building a stronger and more sustainable food system. By investing in the infrastructure and capacity of the mid-level food supply chain, the department aims to create a more robust and resilient agricultural sector in the state.

The availability of the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure grants is an important step towards achieving this goal. It represents a collaborative effort between the Illinois Department of Agriculture and key stakeholders in the food industry, ensuring that the needs and concerns of all parties involved are addressed.

As the application period opens, farmers, ranchers, and producers across Illinois are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity. By accessing the RFSI grants, they can invest in equipment, expand their capacity, and improve their infrastructure, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and sustainable food supply chain.

The Illinois Department of Agriculture remains committed to supporting the agricultural community and fostering a resilient food system. Through initiatives like the RFSI grants, the department aims to create a thriving and prosperous agricultural sector that benefits all stakeholders involved.