Farmers in Rutherford County and throughout Tennessee looking to expand their markets and increase food safety by becoming Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) certified now have the opportunity to receive financial assistance from the Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA).

GAP certification allows producers to sell directly to more businesses and institutions with stringent food safety requirements, such as grocery stores or hospitals. These new opportunities allow producers to increase their income, and the certification helps to ensure food is safe and wholesome for specialty crops throughout Tennessee.

The application period closes Aug. 31, 2019. Qualified producers will have the opportunity to offset the cost of a GAP Certification inspection by being reimbursed 75% of the inspection cost up to $750.

Funds are available on a first come, first served basis. Grant funds are available to producers only; warehouses and distributors may not apply.

You will find more information and the cost share application by emailing Grant Pulse at grant.pulse@tn.gov.