This category centers on research efforts that focus on the producers and processing of agricultural products and by-products. Further consideration is given to proposals which address expanded uses of technology for the processing of these products.

Research products which are directly linked with an entrepreneur and have a chance of rapid commercialization have priority in this category.

Agricultural product utilization and research which could ultimately lead to business expansion or creations are the essential goals of this program.

Funds from this category are used for the development or implementation of a sound marketing plan for the promotion of North Dakota agricultural products or by-products.

The products should be new to the particular area targeted for the marketing promotion or should be an expansion of a use or uses of existing products.

The commission prefers proposals that will encourage the creation of jobs and industry within the state. It is recommended that applicants research the potential markets for their products, estimate the financial possibilities of these markets and present a plan of action. A realistic timeline for success must be considered.

This category focuses on the diversification of a family farm to non-traditional crops, livestock or on-farm value-added processing of agricultural commodities. Traditional crops and livestock are generally defined as those for which the North Dakota Agricultural Statistics Service maintains records. The proposed project must have the potential to create additional income for the farm unit.

Proposals must demonstrate a well-prepared plan of action including exploration of markets for the product and the projected income. A sound business plan must show potential profits from diversifying.

Nature-Based Agri-Tourism is, as defined for APUC purposes, an eligible business which seeks to attract visitors to a working farm or any agricultural, horticultural or agribusiness operation to enjoy, be educated or be involved in activities.

Funding for Nature-Based Agri-Tourism is normally restricted to marketing and advertising dollars for individual, or preferably groups of individuals or companies, who are currently engaged in an eligible tourism activity.

Grants will be awarded as follows:

Individual = up to $1,000
2 individuals = up to $2,500
3 to 5 individuals = up to $6,500
6 or more individuals = up to $10,000

The maximum grant award is $10,000 and individuals (companies) are only eligible for one grant a year.

Prototype Grant: APUC restricts prototype development to inventions improving the operations of food processing equipment or agricultural equipment. The processes for prototype development which are eligible for funding considerations under this program include: product design, assembling the prototype, prototype testing, patenting, prototype evaluation or redesign or determination of the need to develop a different prototype, and market assessment to refine prototype.

Technology Grant: To encourage innovation, APUC will maintain a broad view of technology. It is up to the proposer to justify that a device, process, or program constitutes a meritorious technology suitable for consideration as an agricultural or food processing advancement. APUC wishes to encourage development of new technologies and it will consider conceptual and unproven technologies as it would prototypes.

Funds for agricultural innovations, prototypes and unproven technologies are normally limited to a one-time award up to $25,000 per project. Funding must be matched dollar for dollar. Independent peer reviewers familiar with the technology or prototype will be asked to evaluate the project. Deadlines for submitting Agricultural Innovations proposals are December 1, May 1, June 1 and September 1.