Montana REAP Technical Assistance Grant (REAP-TAG)

Through the REAP Technical Assistance Grant (REAP-TAG), the Montana Department of Agriculture provides free technical assistance to help agricultural producers and rural small businesses apply to the USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). REAP funds renewable energy systems and energy-efficient equipment — including solar, wind, and biomass projects; livestock solar well pumps and cattle watering systems; irrigation equipment conversions; and HVAC systems, commercial hot water heaters, lighting, insulation, and windows.

Agricultural producers with at least 50% of gross income from agricultural operations, and small businesses in rural areas (for-profit entities, cooperatives, electric utilities, and Tribal corporations). Applicants must have no outstanding delinquent federal taxes, debt, judgment, or debarment. Projects must be located in rural areas with populations of 50,000 or less; agricultural producers may use non-rural locations if the project is on-site production.

USDA REAP grants are currently available at up to 25% of eligible project costs. The Montana Department of Agriculture's role is to provide free technical assistance and grant-writing help to access the federal REAP program.

The application window is open now. Technical assistance is available through the Montana Department of Agriculture and its partners, or a local Food and Agriculture Development Center.