Amanda Laban details Climate Smart Marketing Grants for innovative agricultural projects

The Colorado Agricultural Commission convened on May 15, 2025, to discuss significant advancements in climate-smart agriculture, highlighted by a presentation from Amanda Laban, the Markets Division Director. The meeting focused on the newly established Climate Smart Marketing Grants, aimed at fostering innovation and expanding the market for climate-smart commodities.

Laban detailed the funding opportunity that was launched earlier this year, which received nearly 40 proposals. Ultimately, three projects were awarded a total of $90,000, with each receiving the maximum grant of $30,000. This initiative is designed to reduce the risks associated with entering the climate-smart market, thereby encouraging more producers to adopt sustainable practices.

The first project, led by Centennial Ag Trading in Brush, will enhance their facility with a new grain bin, allowing them to accept a broader range of drought-tolerant crops. This initiative aims to establish contracts with buyers interested in organic and climate-smart products, while also focusing on marketing efforts to educate consumers about these offerings.

Olander Farms, a climate farm specializing in barley, is the second recipient. They plan to collaborate with Downforce Technologies to assess soil organic carbon levels and greenhouse gas emissions on their barley fields. The project aims to produce malt for New Belgium Brewery, contributing to the development of a carbon-neutral beer.

The third project involves Tumbleweed Bread, an artisan bakery in Monte Vista. They will use the grant to enhance their capacity for processing climate-smart grains, including millet. The funding will support equipment purchases and marketing initiatives to promote consumer awareness of their products.

These projects represent a pilot effort by the Colorado Department of Agriculture to explore the potential impacts of climate-smart practices in the agricultural marketplace. The commission's discussions underscored the importance of supporting sustainable agriculture as a means to address climate change and enhance food security in the region. As these initiatives progress, they may serve as a model for future funding opportunities and agricultural practices across Colorado.