Ag Products Utilization & Marketing Program
The Ag Products Utilization & Marketing Program was created by the Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) to assist Colorado agricultural and food companies in the research and development of new uses and markets for agricultural and food products that are grown, raised or processed in Colorado.
The program will offer up to $20,000 per project on a 1:1 cost share basis to assist with feasibility studies, market research, and promotions. In general, funds will be allocated for projects in two broad functional categories.
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Funding for feasibility studies & technical projects may address the market for the product, engineering requirements, economic viability, environmental concerns, legal requirements, management, and other necessary business components. Funds may also be utilized to conduct product analyses and provide for technical assistance to explore more efficient systems for processing agricultural products and by-products.
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Marketing & promotion project funds may be provided to conduct marketing, market research, and promotion projects in local, regional, national and/or international markets. Such projects may include, but are not limited to
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market research,
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first-time participation in trade shows,
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translation and development of company and product brochures,
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web site design,
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package and label design,
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consumer and trade communications, and promotions.
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In general, funding for promotions is limited to new product launches, promotions supporting the development of new sales channels, or promotions which serve to enhance the image of Colorado as a high-quality and reliable supplier of agricultural and food products.
Funds may not be utilized for paying down current debt, general administrative expenses, salaries, or for indirect institutional overhead costs. Similarly, funds may not be utilized for purchasing equipment and construction/building costs.