Commissioner Miller Announces Texas Regional Event Grants to Promote Texas (10/28/2015)

AUSTIN - Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller today unveiled the Texas Department of Agriculture’s (TDA) newest grant initiative designed to promote the best of Texas, support local communities and boost awareness of specialized segments of Texas’ vast agriculture industry. The new Texas Regional Event Grant Program connects TDA with festival and event organizers throughout the state. Organizers can use grant funds to support events featuring award-winning Texas wines and/or flavorful Gulf shrimp.    

“Texas is truly blessed with its diverse agriculture industry, and now is the time to support the many wonderful events across the state promoting the bounty of Texas agriculture,” Commissioner Miller said. “Through the Texas Regional Event Grant Program, we are able to support local efforts to spread the word about products grown, produced and harvested right here in our own backyard. It is local, grassroots events and festivals that open doors and teach people about all that Texas agriculture has to offer.”

A maximum of $2,000 is available for each approved event. To be eligible, an event must:

• Be organized by a current GO TEXAN member;
• Feature Texas wines and/or Texas Gulf shrimp as the main focus of the event and as part of a consumer education component; and
• Take place between Nov. 1, 2015 and Aug. 31, 2016.

Texas’ booming wine industry represents the perfect marriage of agriculture and tourism. Texas is the No. 5 wine-producing state in the nation and is home to more than 350 wineries. Additionally, Texas is a top producer of quality, wild-caught Gulf shrimp. Texas’ seafood industry generates millions in sales and supports thousands of jobs for Texans. By supporting events related to these industries, TDA is working to bolster the Texas economy and increase awareness about Texas agriculture.

Grant applications are now available. For more information about the Texas Regional Event Grant Program, visit gotexan.org and click on the “For Members” tab, or send an email to Grants@TexasAgriculture.gov.