Iowa SARE Travel Scholarships and Mini-Grants

Iowa SARE PDP Mini-grants

Iowa’s Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education (SARE) Professional Development Program (PDP) has a limited pool of funds to offer mini-grants, up to $2,000, to Iowa organizations that wish to make professional development opportunities available for educators working in sustainable agriculture.  Mini-grants can be used to plan and offer professional development programming for sustainable agriculture educators, or to help sustainable agriculture educators take advantage of professional development opportunities that are part of another related project or program.  Requests should emphasize training key sustainable agriculture educators in extension, NRCS, private, and not-for-profit sectors.  Professional development opportunities should address important and/or emerging issues in the farm community and, when possible and appropriate, use farmers as educators. SARE defines sustainable agriculture as farming and ranching that is ecologically sound, economically viable, and socially responsible. 

Mini-grant applications will be received through the year and support will depend on available state SARE funds. Projects must be completed within six months of submitting the application. A final online report will be due 30 days after the project completion date.

Requests will be reviewed when received by the Iowa SARE coordinator and/or advisory committee members.  Mini-grant recipients will be notified as soon as possible and funds will be made available shortly thereafter.  Awards will be administered as a sub-contract or professional services agreement with Iowa State University. 

Iowa SARE PDP Mini-grant Online Application Form

Iowa SARE PDP Travel Scholarship

Funds are available for travel scholarships to enable Iowa agriculture educators to attend conferences, workshops, field days, tours, and other events for professional development that will improve and update their knowledge and skills on topics related to sustainable agriculture. SARE defines sustainable agriculture as farming and ranching that is ecologically sound, profitable, and socially responsible. Travel scholarships will cover mileage, or a portion of a flight, meals, and/or registration fees for up to $300 per application (lodging is not covered). Applications for travel scholarships will be accepted anytime of the year, but must be submitted at least 30 days prior to the event. Travel scholarships will be distributed on a first-come basis until funds are depleted. If you are selected for a SARE travel scholarship you will be asked to complete an online survey immediately after returning from the event.

Iowa SARE PDP Travel Scholarship Online Application Form

For more information on sustainable agricultural events and opportunities in Iowa, go to www.iowasare.org or contact Christa Hartsook Iowa State SARE Coordinator, Christa Hartsook. Phone: 515.294.4430 Email: hartc@iastate.edu