ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 27, 2025) ~ Annapolis, MD - The Maryland Horse Industry Board, a program under the Maryland Department of Agriculture, has recently announced the recipients of their annual grants. A total of $31,200 has been awarded to 37 organizations and equestrian operations across the state. These grants were selected from a pool of 48 applicants by the grant review committee.

Funding for these grants and the Maryland Horse Industry Board comes from the Maryland Feed Fund, which collects $6 on every ton of horse feed sold in the state. Since its establishment in 2002, the Board has distributed over $700,000 in grants to more than 450 projects.

According to Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks, these grants are crucial for both the horse industry and the agricultural sector. "Reaching a diverse range of horse organizations representing different disciplines and regions within our state is essential in keeping this industry thriving," he stated.

This year's grant recipients include several new or recently started equine projects. Among them is Common Ground, an equine assisted activities program that supports veterans, first responders, and others dealing with trauma and stress. Another recipient is the Therapeutic Riding Center of Western Maryland, which is the first of its kind in Allegany County. Saddle Up Scholars also received funding to provide horsemanship and horseback riding experiences for low-income youth.

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In addition to these new projects, there are also various other programs receiving grants for equine education, leadership development, history preservation, equine welfare initiatives, youth activities, and other equestrian disciplines. These programs are based in 16 out of Maryland's 23 counties.

A complete list of grant recipients and a brief description of each project can be found on the Maryland Horse Industry Board's website at www.mda.maryland.gov/horseboard.

Projects were evaluated based on their value to the industry, promotion potential, size and scope of activity, financial need, potential for matching funds, and overall quality of the written presentation. Grants were capped at $3,000 to ensure that funds could be distributed to as many groups as possible. Projects must be completed by June 30, 2025, although exceptions can be made. Recipients are required to submit a project report to the Board detailing how the funds were used.

The Maryland Horse Industry Board was established in 1998 with the goal of promoting and developing the equine industry in Maryland. For more information about the grants program and the Board, interested parties can visit their website or contact them at mda.horseboard@maryland.gov.

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