Subawardee

UW-Stout

Project Lead

Project Description

UW-Stout’s subaward focuses on enhancing the emerging Center for Rural Opportunity, Prosperity and Sustainability. CROPS is piloting ongoing research about issues facing rural communities, including farm consolidation, the loss of population and small businesses, rural poverty and environmental issues related to conventional agriculture.

Objectives and Outcomes:

1. Finalize CROPS center purpose, mission, and vision in collaboration with university stakeholders and community partners.

2. Finalize CROPS center structure, procedures (e.g., leadership, advisory committee, list of affiliate faculty, cost structure and processes for contracts and services, student workers, internal communication/reporting plan, etc.).

3. Once the center is formally approved by the university, extend invitations to prospective members and convene inaugural CROPS center advisory committee.

4. Draft 5-year strategic plan (to include a tiered approach to programming, activities, educational pathways/curriculum, outreach).

5. Expand industry partnerships (goal of adding 5 more companies).

6. Identify funding sources and write proposals for ongoing center support.

7. Work with the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs to apply for money to support students (Freshwater Collaborative or GPS program).

8. Create marketing materials and marketing plan (including website)

Award Amount

$21,920