What is the AgriFIRST grant program?  AgriFIRST is the Illinois Department of Agriculture’s only economic development program.  The program was designed to help provide planning and construction funds to expand the number of value-added agricultural businesses in Illinois.

How much grant money is available for fiscal year 2008?  $536,275
[Subject to annual appropriation.]

Who is eligible?  Any eligible application as defined in the Illinois AgriFIRST Program Act of 2001 (505 ILCS 19/). Statute and program rules are available on the Department’s website.

What is the geographic area being targeted during the first grant application round?  Any eligible applicant residing or owning a business that operates in Illinois.  Individuals or companies with the intent to develop a value-added business in Illinois are also eligible as long as they are working with an in-state partner.

What can grant funds be used for? 
Feasibility studies, competitive assessments and consulting-productivity services:  up to 50% (dollar for dollar match – 10% of applicant’s 50% match must be in cash or cash equivalent from the applicant) of the cost of undertaking feasibility studies, competitive assessments and consulting-productivity services including, but not limited to, the following:  feasibility studies, market research, development of a business and marketing plans, accounting, engineering, legal and site development work.
Project Limit: $300,000

Technical Assistance: up to 75% (10% of the applicant’s of the applicant’s match must be in cash or cash equivalent from the applicant) of the cost for technical assistance to develop a project not to exceed $25,000.
Project Limit: $25,000

Capital/Construction:  up to 10% (applicants provide 90% of the funds for the project and of that 90% - 10% is required to be in cash or cash equivalent from the applicant) of the project’s total capital construction cost not to exceed $5,000,000 including, but not limited to:  purchasing land; purchasing constructing or refurbishing buildings or equipment; installation; labor and working capital.
Project Limit: $5,000,000

How does the program work?  All applicants must provide the required equity necessary to be considered eligible.  (In some instances, a larger percentage of the project may be required see the equity requirements above.) Once awards are made, all grantees will enter into a grant agreement with the Department outlining all terms and conditions of the award.  Grantees have approximately one year from the time the agreement is signed to utilize grant funds.  No portion of a project, for which grant funds have been requested can begin prior to a grant agreement being signed with the Department.

How do I apply?  Individuals interested in applying can obtain an application by contacting the Illinois Department of Agriculture (217-782-2172) or forms can be downloaded from the Department’s website (www.agr.state.il.us).Application will be available in October ’07.

What is the application deadline? December 11, 2007

More information is available on the Department’s website ~ www.agr.state.il.us.