Multi-sector and comprehensive effort focused on strengthening relationships and identifying partners needed to assist communities and groups to build and strengthen local food projects

The National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), a civilian agency under the U.S. Department of Agriculture, awarded a $704,419 Project Grant to Enhancing And Strengthening North Dakota Nonprofits & Communities (doing business as Strengthen ND), a non-profit organization. The grant, provided through the USDA's Soil and Water Conservation program (CFDA 10.902), will fund a multi-sector effort focused on strengthening relationships and identifying partners to assist North Dakota communities and groups in building and strengthening local food projects. The 3-year project, which began on September 15, 2023 and will run through August 31, 2026, will provide technical assistance and support relationship building around food systems and conservation efforts. Strengthen ND has also received additional USDA grants totaling over $750,000 in recent years to support rural business development, Native American enterprises, and community food projects across North Dakota.