GTA Business Acceleration Program (BAP)

OVERVIEW The Montana Growth Through Agriculture (GTA) program was created by the 1987 Legislature and is administered by the seven-member Montana Agriculture Development Council, which is attached to the Department of Agriculture. The legislative purpose of the program is to strengthen and diversify Montana's agricultural industry through loans and grants to assist the development of innovative agricultural business organizational improvements and the commercialization and marketing of new agricultural products in order to keep pace with a transforming agricultural industry and to create new jobs and expand small business opportunities. Program Purpose The intent of GTA Business Acceleration Program (BAP) is to support businesses and other entities entering expansionary phases of growth through planning and development of viable agriculture products and technologies resulting in capital investment. • Fund projects still in early expansionary phase of development • Support startup businesses in minimizing time to profitability • Offer expanding businesses the ability to establish groundwork for capital expenditure • Accelerate new, innovative products up to commercialization General Criteria for Funding Projects must be consistent with the goals of the Growth Through Agriculture Act and: • Primarily add value to Montana’s agricultural products; • Have the prospects for commercial success given current personnel, experience and resources of the applicant; • Have the prospects to create and/or retain jobs in Montana; • Primarily processes or adds value to Montana’s agricultural products currently produced or potentially produced in the state; and • Has the management structure to allow the reviewers to reasonably conclude that the applicant will comply with ongoing reporting and monitoring activities. Funding Available • Up to $20,000 in grant award per recipient, over two years • Required 50% cost-share • Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until funds are expended Who Can Apply Proposals for funding are accepted from: • Individuals • Businesses and Industry Organizations • Public and Private Agencies and Organizations • Educational Institutions • Local Governments Please read Program Guidelines (attached below and on GTA webpage) for more information on funding and eligibility.

Carefully review the Program Guidance prior to starting your application to ensure eligibility and completeness.

Business Registration Required To be eligible to receive funding your business must be registered with the Montana Secretary of State's office (www.sos.mt.gov). If your business is not registered we encourage you to begin that process prior to submitting an application.

Additional information including FAQs, Program Guidance, and Important Dates.