OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry is entering into a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service under the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) Grant Program. More than $6.3 million is available in competitive grant funding for projects designed to build resilience across the middle of the supply chain.

Oklahoma Secretary of Agriculture Blayne Arthur anticipates the program to increase supply chain resiliency.

“We’re excited the RFSI Program will provide a new opportunity for the many people and businesses responsible for helping feed, fuel and clothe the world,” Arthur said. “This program should be a great resource for Oklahoma producers while also helping to benefit our food supply chain.”

The partnership will offer grant funding to food and farm businesses that support the production of local and regional agricultural products.

ODAFF Market Development Coordinator Jason Harvey said the grants will be awarded through a competitive review process.

“Strong proposals should look to create more diverse local and regional market options,” Harvey said. “The funding will create more economic opportunities for communities by creating new revenue streams for producers in Oklahoma.”

Two types of grants will be offered under the RFSI program: Infrastructure Grants and Equipment-Only Grants.

Infrastructure Grants will range from a minimum of $100,000 to a maximum of $1,000,000 and must be completed in two years. Equipment-Only Grants will range in value from a minimum award of $10,000 and a maximum award of $ 100,000.

Applications will be accepted for Infrastructure Grant funding through Feb. 23, 2024.

Applicants are invited to ask questions during a live webinar slated for Jan. 9 at 10 a.m. For additional information about the RFSI program, contact Jason Harvey at 405606-1477. To apply, download an application from the ODAFF website.