Louisiana Equine Promotion and Research Advisory Board announces grant opportunities
For immediate release: October 4, 2024
Baton Rouge, La. – The Louisiana Equine Promotion and Research Advisory Board is accepting grant applications for the purpose of supporting the growth and development of the Louisiana equine industry by enhancing research, education, promotion, facilities, tourism, events, and equine-related activities throughout the state.
Funding for this round of grants was dedicated as part of Act 582 of the 2024 Regular Legislative Session. The Board is offering one-time grants based on available funds. Applicants should apply early, as grants are available on a first-come basis. The Board will consider applications at their meetings.
Applicants can find grant guidelines and the application at Louisiana Equine Promotion and Research Advisory Board | Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (la.gov). The deadline for applications Friday, November 1, 2024.
“The Louisiana equine industry has a $3 billion economic impact touching every parish and community in our great state,” said LDAF Commissioner Mike Strain, DVM. “The industry is a valuable part of Louisiana’s economy. We were excited to see all of the wonderful things this board accomplished over the last year, and we hope to see it continue to grow.”
The Louisiana Equine Promotion and Research Advisory Board was created by Act 168 of the 2021 Regular Session of the Louisiana Legislature. Its purpose is to support the growth and development of the equine industry in Louisiana by enhancing research, education, promotion, facilities, tourism, events, and equine-related activities throughout the state.
The Louisiana equine industry includes some 40,000 owners and 160,000 horses and has an economic impact of $3 billion. Since the board’s inception in 2021, it has helped fund multiple events, facilities, and equine-related activities, resulting in a 2,150% return on investment. In 2022-23, the board awarded a total of $194,000 in grants with an economic impact of $4,438,200; additionally, 50% of that was generated by out-of-state funds.
Please contact Dr. Neely Heidorn with any questions at equineboard@ldaf.state.la.us.
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For more information regarding the press release, please contact LDAFCommunications@ldaf.state.la.us .
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