V.I. Local Food and Farm Council Awards Over $500,000 in Grants to Boost Food Security Across Territory

On Wednesday, the V.I. Local Food and Farm Council announced the recipients of $500,567 in grant funding for the 2024 cycle. The funds will be used to improve food security in the territory. According to the release, a total of 106 applications were received, seeking over $4.6 million in funding for agricultural projects in the territory. Twelve farmers, fishers and related organizations were selected by the Council’s Review and Selection Committee from the pool of applicants, representing all three islands.‌ Grants were awarded in two categories: Tier 1 for those with up to 5 years of experience, and Tier 2 for those with 5 or more years of experience in their field. The four Tier 1 grants awarded ranged from just over $21,000 to $55,000, while the eight Tier 2 grants ranged from $15,000 to over $65,000.‌ “We are gratified by the dedication of the many grant applicants in envisioning a better future and enhanced food security for the territory, and thank them for their submissions,...