Matching Fund Requirements. Any project to be undertaken will be required to demonstrate matching funds, either in cash and/or in-kind contribution, equal to at least 25 percent of the total project budjet.

For purposes of this Request for Proposals, proposals are limited to only the Industry and Organizations Competitive Grant Program.  Producers interested in participating in the "Marketing, Research & Technical Support for Colorado's Small Acreage, Socially Disadvantaged and Beginning Specialty Crop Producers" Program through Colorado State University, visit www.specialtycrops.colostate.edu for more information.

 Estimated Timeline

Applicants should consider the following timeline as a likely scenario to determine the eligibility of projects. The timeline is subject to change. 

April 4, 2012 - Project Proposals to CDA
May 1, 2012 - Proposal Review & Selection
July 1, 2012 - Colorado Plan Submitted to USDA
September 30, 2012 - USDA Approval of Colorado Plan
February 28, 2013 - Contracting with Program Participants Completed
March 1, 2013 - Earliest Date for Projects to Begin
September 1, 2015 - Latest Date that Projects Can be Completed

 Proposal Guidelines

• Grant award amounts will be determined on the basis of a competitive review and evaluation of each proposal. 
   
• Funds will be released to the applicant through the reimbursement of documented expenses incurred after the contract effective date.  
   
• Reimbursement of expenses will be contingent upon compliance with Program guidelines as set forth by CDA. 
   
• Claims for reimbursement may not be made more often than monthly.
   
• Grants will be made in support of specialty crops grown in the State of Colorado and are intended to supplement private, state, or third party participant funding.
   
• Funds may not be utilized for paying down current debt, purchasing equipment, construction/building costs, or for indirect institutional overhead costs.