Key Takeaways:
- The Minnesota Department of Agriculture has awarded funding to more than 25 community projects across the state.
- Supported initiatives include youth training programs, school and community gardens, and food sovereignty efforts.
- Projects will improve infrastructure, expand agricultural education, and provide opportunities for diverse communities.
- Funding will also support specialized programs focused on inclusion, cultural knowledge, and sustainable practices.
- The initiatives are intended to strengthen local food systems and promote long-term community impact.
Minnesota Department of Agriculture Announces Community Support
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture has provided funding to organizations, schools, and nonprofits working to expand food education and urban agriculture programs. The selected projects represent a broad range of efforts, from youth development and school gardens to food security and sustainability initiatives.
The funding will support infrastructure improvements, curriculum development, and training opportunities across Minneapolis–St. Paul and greater Minnesota.
Examples of Funded Projects By The Minnesota Department of Agriculture
- Youth and Education: Appetite For Change in Minneapolis will employ 30 youth in paid agricultural training, Frog Tree Farm in Brooklyn Park will run sustainability workshops and retreats, and UMN Extension 4-H will connect climate science with agriculture through hands-on student projects.
- School and Community Gardens: Augsburg University in Minneapolis will upgrade its community garden, Humboldt High School in St. Paul will add orchards and irrigation, and Hermantown Community Schools will create a new learning garden for younger students.
- Community and Food Sovereignty: Native American Community Development Institute in Minneapolis will expand programming at Four Sisters Urban Farm, while East Phillips Neighborhood Institute will offer environmental education informed by Indigenous knowledge.
- Specialized Programs: Darling Little Farm in St. Paul will deliver agricultural workshops for people with disabilities, Friendly Hmong Farms in Minnetonka will provide professional development for women farmers and youth, and Irreducible Grace Foundation in St. Paul will expand youth-focused garden programming and operate a mobile market.
Strengthening Local Food Systems
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture noted that these projects will enhance community gardens, urban farms, and educational programs across the state. Many initiatives include investments in infrastructure such as rainwater systems, composting facilities, irrigation, and greenhouses.
Discover more details on the MDA website.
