1. A. A qualified applicant that applies for grant funds under the program shall submit to the Department the following:

   1. (1) If the applicant is an urban agricultural producer:

      1. (a) An application on a Department-produced form which shall include a budget estimate of the overall eligible costs;
      2. (b) A map identifying the location of the operation including its street address and the parcel boundaries of the land on which the operation is situated;
      3. (c) Documentation showing that the person annually sells, or would normally have sold, in an urban area at least $1,000 of farm products from the person’s farming operation;
      4. (d) Except for an individual applying on the individual’s own behalf, documentation proving the applicant’s authority to sign on behalf of the organization on all matters related to the program;
      5. (e) A completed Current Nutrient Management Plan Certification form or Nutrient Management Plan Waiver, as applicable; and
      6. (f) A completed IRS Tax Form W-9.

   2. (2) If the applicant is a non-profit organization or institution of higher education:

      1. (a) An application based on a Department-approved form which shall include a budget estimate of the overall eligible costs; and

      2. (b) For qualified nonprofit organizations:

         1. (i) A current IRS Determination Letter indicating its §501(c)3 status under Title 26 of the United States Code; and
         2. (ii) Evidence of good standing with the State of Maryland;

2. B. Use of Grant Funds.

   1. (1) Limitations. A grant recipient may use a grant under this program to:

      1. (a) Secure real property:

         1. (i) That has established the necessary infrastructure to grow food;
         2. (ii) For which the grantee is the steward of the real property; and
         3. (iii) For which no more than 20 percent of the grant money will be used to secure property;
      2. (b) Maintain safe, environmentally sustainable, and socially responsible practices; and
      3. (c) Make capital improvements to support viable urban agriculture enterprises.
   2. (2) To receive a grant under this program, the applicant shall demonstrate that the funds the person receives will provide a measurable community benefit including, but not limited to, improving local food access; and
   3. (3) A grant recipient may not use more than 15 percent of the amount of the grant for operating expenses.

Authority: Agriculture Article, §§2-2001 et seq.; Annotated Code of Maryland

Effective date: April 14, 2025 (52:7 Md. R. 325)

Regulation .02B amended effective April 27, 2026 (53:8 Md. R. 356)

Regulation .04B amended effective April 27, 2026 (53:8 Md. R. 356)

Regulation .05A amended effective April 27, 2026 (53:8 Md. R. 356)

Regulation .06A amended effective April 27, 2026 (53:8 Md. R. 356)