ATTENTION cotton growers! Does your local Cotton Grower Association (CGA) need more weather data, want to run a trial or hold a workshop? Feel like you need a bit of training or help navigating the complex world of carbon? The CRDC Grassroots Grants program can help make it happen.
The program offers grants of up to $10,000 and has become popular with growers and consultants for activities planned through their local CGAs. Since 2011, CRDC has supported 95 projects across cotton growing regions, investing $827,000 to help fund local initiatives to increase the engagement of growers, solve specific regional issues and improve skills, knowledge and networks.
Projects have stretched across regions and topics. Recent initiatives include improving growers’ digital skills, purchasing weather stations, visiting growers in other regions, creating networks and holding irrigation field days. CottonInfo Regional Extension Officers (REOs) often work with CGAs and Cotton Australia Regional Managers to develop a project and carry it out.
“Support is available for CGAs who are thinking about applying,” CottonInfo Program Manager Janelle Montgomery said.
“One of the major benefits of these grants is that they can be tailored to the needs of growers and consultants in each valley. They’re easy to apply for, don’t involve a lot of paperwork, and funding is available now.
“We’ve been getting a lot of feedback through recent Area Wide Management meetings that growers are looking for more information or advice about holding training, workshops and events.
“Our CRDC Innovation Brokers and CottonInfo REOs are happy to talk through ideas and options with any interested grower, consultant or CGA representative.”
Apply now
Grant funding is capped annually, and is allocated on a first-in, first-served basis. Funding is currently available, and CGAs are encouraged to apply. For more information about CRDC Grassroots Grants, visit Community and Grower Support.
