Seed Production Grants are Available
The Bauta Family Initiative on Canadian Seed Security, in partnership with host organizations and expert seed savers across Canada, has been offering training on seed production since 2013. There are also excellent training opportunities outside our program. These events can be difficult for many to attend because of the significant travel and accommodation costs.
To help make these opportunities more accessible for the Canadian seed community, in 2016 we are offering Seed Production Capacity Building Grants. There are two options to apply for these grants: (1) Seed Training Event Support and (2) Custom Seed Learning Support.
ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS
Grants are aimed for seed producers, farmers, farm workers, seed companies, and students learning about ecological seed production. Others excited to build their capacity and understanding of seed production are welcome to apply.
DEADLINE TO APPLY
Grants will be issued on a first-come, first-serve basis. Applications will be considered until all available funds are allocated, up to October 31, 2016.
SEED TRAINING EVENT SUPPORT GRANT
Growers can apply for up to $500 to attend the following training events on ecological seed production. These events offer intermediate to advanced training on growing vegetable seeds and field crops. Eligible costs include travel expenses and registration fees.
- Kneading Conference: Skowhegan, Maine – July 28, 29, 2016
- Seed Savers Exchange Annual Conference & Campout: Decorah, Iowa - Jul. 15-17, 2016
- NOVIC 2-day Plant Breeding Intensive: Pablo, Montana - Sept. 13-14, 2016
- ECOSGN @ ACORN Conference: Moncton, New Brunswick: Nov. 28-30, 2016
- Northeast Organic Seed Growers’ Conference @ NOFA-NY Winter Conference: Farmington, NY: Jan. 20-22, 2017
Applicants may propose other events fit within the goals of this program. These will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Limit of 1 event per applicant. Activities must take place before January 31, 2017.
DOWNLOAD AN APPLICATION FORM HERE
CUSTOM SEED LEARNING SUPPORT
Nothing compares to hands-on learning from experts and mentors, in particular when it comes to advanced seed production training. We are offering support for personalized learning with a seed grower, plant breeder, or other mentor of your choice. For these grants, growers will set the time frame and learning objectives, contact and choose their mentor, and organize your travel and accommodation. Growers can apply for up to $750 to assist with travel costs. Limit of 1 learning exchange per applicant. Activities must happen before December 31, 2017.
Grants are aimed for seed producers, farmers, farm workers, seed companies, and students learning about ecological seed production. Others excited to build their capacity and understanding of seed production are welcome to apply.
DOWNLOAD AN APPLICATION FORM HERE
TO SUBMIT YOUR PROPOSAL
Completed application forms and supporting documents should be sent to the BFICSS coordinator in your region:
| REGION | COORDINATOR | ORGANIZATION | CONTACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlantic Canada | Stephanie Hughes | ACORN | seed@acornorganic.org |
| Quebec | Yann Vegriete | USC Canada | yann@usc-canada.org |
| Ontario | Aabir Dey | Everdale | aabir.dey@everdale.org |
| Prairies | Iris Vaisman | Organic Alberta | iris.vaisman@prairieorganicgrain.org |
| British Columbia | Chris Thoreau | FarmFolk CityFolk | chris@farmfolkcityfolk.ca |
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