Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) Program - Equipment Only Grant

The goal of the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) program is to build resilience in the middle-of-the-food-supply-chain and strengthen local and regional food systems by creating new revenue streams for Michigan producers. Funds will support expanded capacity for the aggregation, processing, manufacturing, storing, transporting, wholesaling, and distribution of locally and regionally produced food products including specialty crops, dairy products, grains for human consumption, aquaculture, and other food products, excluding meat and poultry.

Eligible applicants include agricultural producers or processors, nonprofit organizations, local government entities, tribal governments, and institutions such as schools, universities, or hospitals operating middle-of-the-supply-chain activities. All applicant businesses and organizations must be located in Michigan, and all project activities must take place in Michigan. Ineligible products include meat and poultry, wild-caught seafood, exclusively animal feed and forage products, fiber, landscaping products, tobacco, or dietary supplements.

The Equipment Only Grant is a Fixed Price Grant that funds only equipment purchases (not associated facility upgrades, staffing, or other costs). Equipment must be special purpose equipment priced at $5,000 or more per item.

Applications must be submitted electronically through the MiAgGrants system. Applicants are required to submit a project narrative that describes the overall scope of the project, how it aligns with program goals, estimated increase in production, and who will benefit. Applicants must attach documentation to substantiate the costs of each piece of equipment, such as contracts, catalog pricing, or binding quotes.