Montana Potato Research & Market Development Program

The Montana Potato Research & Market Development Program was created by a vote of potato producers following a process outlined in the Agricultural Commodity Research and Market Development Enabling Act (MCA 80-11-5).

The Potato Research & Market Development Program is administered by the Montana Department of Agriculture, which receives advice from the seven member Montana Potato Advisory Committee. The committee invites proposals to fund demonstration projects, applied research and market development projects designed to address Montana's potato industry needs and opportunities.

Proposals for funding will be accepted from:

• Public and Private Agencies and Organizations

• Business and Industry

• Educational Institutions

• Local Governments

• Individuals

If two or more individuals or organizations propose to conduct a project jointly, they should submit one application as co-applicants.

 Applicants must demonstrate a proven ability to carry out all elements of the proposed project. In addition, applicants proposing to rely upon the expertise of another individual or organization to undertake any part of the project must clearly define the responsibilities of that party as well as provide evidence of their willingness and demonstrated ability to undertake that area of responsibility.

The Montana Department of Agriculture staff will be responsible for monitoring each funded project.

Specific terms and conditions of each funded project will be contained in the formal grant agreement.

The Committee/Department reserves the right to determine the extent of reporting requirements, subject to modification during the project. Interim reporting requirements will be based on the cost, duration and nature of the project. 

A comprehensive final report will be required upon completion of the project. The final report should include:

• a comparison of actual findings and accomplishments of the project with goals and objectives described in the proposal;

• reasons for deviation from established goals of the proposal;

• a clear description of the commercial application and economic benefits, which accrued during the project;

• a description of its immediate impact;

• an estimate of its long-term commercial and economic benefits.

In addition to the final project report, the Committee reserves the right to conduct a follow-up survey of funded projects in order to determine long-term impact.

To apply, see the Montana Web Grants System.

Complete Request For Proposal can be read here.