1) Purpose:
The purpose of the ADOPT program is to accelerate the transfer of knowledge to Saskatchewan producers and ranchers. The ADOPT program will provide funding to help producer groups evaluate and demonstrate new agricultural practices and technologies at the local level. The results of successful trials can then be adopted by farming operations in the region.
2) Who is Eligible:
Eligible recipients include Saskatchewan-based producer groups, such as Agri-ARM sites, the Western Beef Development Centre (WBDC), the Irrigation Crop Diversification Corporation (ICDC) and commodity groups.
Individual producers are not eligible to receive funding under this program, but are encouraged to bring project ideas forward through a local producer group.
3) Application Due Dates:
There will be two deadlines for submission of applications:
- 1) June 15 of each year for fall projects
- 2) December 15 of each year for spring projects
4) Project Evaluation Criteria
The program's goal is to increase the adoption of new technology at the local level and is focused on demonstration. Projects that would be eligible under the Agriculture Development Fund will not be considered eligible for funding under the ADOPT program.
Evaluation criteria include:
- Relevance of the project at the local level;
- Producer involvement;
- Potential impact and probability of adoption;
- Project promotion plan; and
- Ability of the applicant to complete the project
5) Funding
Funding will be awarded on a competitive basis. Each producer group will be eligible for funding of up to $10,000 per site per project to a maximum of $75,000 per year. Generally, funding will be awarded for projects with a duration of one year. Exceptions will be considered for demonstrations that require more than one year to complete, such as biennial or perennial crops.
Eligible costs include:
- all direct project costs
- administration costs up to five per cent
- field day costs to a maximum of $1,000 (if part of funded demonstration project)
The following costs are not eligible:
- any capital purchase over $300
- honorarium for staff or producer members
6) Reporting Requirements
- Applicants will be required to submit a work plan
- A report is required at the end of the project
- A financial statement is required at the end of the project, including receipts.
7) To Apply
Applications are available by e-mail. To inquire about the program or receive an application form, please e-mail the ADOPT evaluation coordinator at: evaluation.coordinator@gov.sk.ca
Applications for fall projects are due June 15 of each year. Applications for spring projects are due December 15 of each year.
