The U.S. Department of Agriculture announces the Vermont Agency of Agriculture as the recipient of an $88,500 matching grant under the Federal-State Marketing Improvement Program (FSMIP), one of the largest awards for this highly competitive 2013 program.
The Agency of Agriculture, in collaboration with Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing, University of Vermont Extension, Shelburne Farms, and Vermont Agricultural and Culinary Tourism Council, will use this funding “to amplify the economic impacts and mitigate risks of agricultural and culinary tourism for Vermont farms,” the USDA said in a statement.
The grant will fund capacity development and risk management for producers offering on-farm experiences, with attention to research and evaluation of economic impacts and farm profitability from engaging in agritourism activity.
Funds will be used to implement coordinated marketing campaigns to drive visitors to farm and food businesses offering authentic agricultural and culinary experiences.
Additionally, the grant will fund leadership and network development to ensure the sharing of best practices and reinforce strong statewide agricultural organizations.
“Agritourism is an important strategy for promoting agricultural diversification and farm viability,” Secretary of Agriculture Chuck Ross said. “Vermont is a leader in community-based agriculture, and this represents yet another way that we are promoting agricultural literacy among visitors and Vermonters alike.”
In 2013, FSMIP Projects total funding is $1,234,690 with average grant allotments of $68,594. Overall, 18 FSMIP projects will be represented across 15 states.
“The joint efforts between the Agency of Agriculture, statewide agricultural organizations and VDTM have reaped a significant award for the future of Vermont agritourism,” Megan Smith, commissioner of the Department of Tourism and Marketing said.
“Especially when compared to the grants received by larger states, this funding is yet another testament that Vermont is a leader in this field,” she added.