Overview:

The goal of the ICC Farmer Grant Program is to help farmers develop and improve their operations. Infrastructure and equipment costs are some of the most daunting for young farmers just starting out. This grant program seeks to address that problem by offering finacial aid in securing tangible assets.

Who can apply:

You must be a working farmer on land anywhere within the Capitol Regional District (CRD). Farmers applying must have 2 years previous farming experience or have come through a recognized apprenticship program. Farms who have previously applied, whether they have received grants from us or not, are still eligible to apply again. Previous applications have no bearing on this years's ICC grants.

Size of grants available:

In the past, the ICC has awarded $1000.00 grants to two or three farmers per year. In 2008 with funds raised through ICC events, over $9500.00 was awarded through the grant program to five different farm properties. The maximum grant available is presently $3000, but smaller amounts are awarded as well. Please submit an application for only the amount that you really need.

What funds can be used for:

Physical assets which can be purchased. Greenhousing, irrigation, fencing, chicken coops, heating units for seed starting, etc.

How to apply:

Write us a letter outlining who you are, where you farm and what you would like to purchase with the grant money. A brief history about yourself and your farming operation is required. You must submit a quote from a reputable supplier indicating the cost of the item(s) you are looking to purchase. If your grant request is accepted, the ICC will purchase the asset and have it delivered to you.

How proposals are evaluated:

The ICC grant committee will evaluate applicants based on the following considerations:

• Willingness to work with ICC chefs or the ICC Bastion Square Local Farm Market. As we are a group of chefs who are looking for farmers able to supply us, preference will go to those willing to do so.
• Willingness to work with a local box program, community market, CSA program or similar distribution model.
• Willingness to make your produce available to local purchasers through farmgate sales.
• History of activism in food security issues, sustainability or community projects encouraging local food consumption.
• The amount your farm's viability will be enhanced by the addition of the assest.

Every applicant will be contacted by the ICC and an on-site visit to your property will be arranged. You will have an opportunity to explain in detail the specifics of your request to our grant approval committee.

Timeline for the grant process:

Grants are accepted on an ongoing basis. The next awards will be announced on July 1st, 2010.

Submitting your application:

All applications must be mailed to

The Island Chefs' Collaborative

PO box 30164 A

Sannich Center Postal Outlet

Victoria, BC

V8X 5E1

Please submit your application on 8 ½ by 11 paper. Include any drawings or photos you may feel useful to our evalution process. Include copies of quotes for the assets you would like us to purchase. Please do not send any original material you want returned.