The Chesapeake Bay Trust in partnership with the District of Columbia Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) has recently opened the DC Urban Agriculture Small Grant Program!  The application deadline is May 21, 2021 at 6pm – apply now!

DOEE formalized the Office of Urban Agriculture in 2020 which works to increase food production in the District of Columbia and to support a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient food system. The Office is a central hub working with the DC Food Policy Council,  sister agencies, the University of the District of Columbia, farmers, and community members to support urban agriculture, increase access to fresh, healthy produce, empower communities, and create green jobs.

About the DC Urban Agriculture Small Grant Program: The goals of the program are to support increased infrastructure and operations at urban farms and to advance strategies to support the success of agriculture initiatives for socially disadvantaged farmers. Food and nutrition education remains an integral component of an informed farm operation and contributes to healthy communities. This grant program seeks to provide funding to building capacity for crop production and distribution, and to increase knowledge within farmers and District residents through agricultural education experiences.

Maximum Request Amount: Up to $10,000

Funds available: $38,400

Deadline: May 21, 2020 at 6pm

Eligible applications: Applicants physically located in the District of Columbia that are Nonprofit organizations; Faith-based organizations; Universities/educational institutions; or Private Enterprises.

Project examples (include but not limited to):

  • Fencing, cold storage, wash/pack stations, sheds, pavilions for food processing and education events, hoop houses, greenhouses, and shipping containers for indoor growing
  • Controlled Environment Agriculture technology: lighting, hydroponic and aquaponic components
  • Utility Installation: water and electrical lines, solar panels
  • Farm equipment such as tools and irrigation supplies

To review the Request for Applications (RFA) and to apply, visit the Trust’s website – https://cbtrust.org/grants/district-of-columbia-urban-agriculture/

Have an idea but want to talk to through it before applying? Have questions after you read the RFA? Let’s chat! Contact Bre’Anna Brooks at bbrooks@cbtrust.org or (410) 974-2941, ext. 112.