Local food-producers in Winneshiek County are eligible to receive up to $500 in grant money

Local food-producers in Winneshiek County are eligible to receive up to $500 in grant money to assist them in starting or expanding a new operation.   The grants are provided by the Northeast Iowa Food & Farm Coalition (NIFF) and are administered by Winneshiek County Development, Inc.

Grant funds may be used for start-up or expansion costs related to planting new crops that will be sold for local consumption. Such crops may include grapes, nuts, fruits or vegetables.

Producers may also use the funds for development of hoop structures or greenhouses to broaden their markets or to increase the shelf life of local foods. Projects related to the marketing or transportation of local foods will also be considered.

Applications are available by contacting Winneshiek County Development Director Randy Uhl at wcdi@alpinecom.net, or by calling 563-382-6061.

The deadline for submitting an application is 5:00 p.m. Friday, May 7th.