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Steps for a GTA application:

  1. New! Register and Apply Online: Growth Through Agriculture (GTA) applications are now being accepted in an online format. You may contact program staff to discuss your proposal by email at gta@mt.gov or by phone at 406-444-2402. If you are interested in applying, go to www.fundingmt.org to register and receive a password that will enable you to fill out and submit an application.
  2. Read the GTA Program Background. Read the program background in order to determine whether or not your project is eligible and learn more about the details of the program to begin the GTA application process.
  3. Register with the Montana Secretary of State. If your company is not already registered with the Montana Secretary of State, you may need to do so before going further with the application process. Organizations other than Sole Proprietorships must be registered with the        Montana Secretary of State prior to submittal of the GTA application. Any application from an organization that is not registered with the Montana Secretary of State will not be accepted.
  4. Fill out an application. Go to go to www.fundingmt.org and login with your username and password. Go through the following steps to open up and start an application.
    • Select "Funding Opportunities" from the menu list.
    • Select the funding opportunity titled "AGR GTA January 31, 2012" under Opportunity Title.
    • To open an application, click "Start a New Application".
  5. Prepare Financial Statements. Prepare a cash flow statement using the appropriate spreadsheet form below, projected to a point of positive cash flow and profitability, and a balance sheet to accompany your application. All applications must include: a cash flow statement, a current and projected balance sheet and a list of all key financial assumptions. The list of key assumptions should provide the basis for all major financial projections. Any application that does not include these items in the prescribed form will not be accepted.

    Use this guide, general spreadsheet, and sample to help you prepare your cash flow statement and balance sheet. Existing business or start up business spreadsheets are specifically designed and may be used if you prefer. The provided spreadsheet templates are required to complete the application.

  6. Credit Check Release Form. This form must be received by the application deadline. Complete the form and submit it by fax or mail it to:
    GTA Program Manager
    Montana Department of Agriculture
    P.O. Box 200201
    Helena, Montana 59620-0201
    (406) 444-9442 fax

    7. If you need assistance, please contact the Small Business Development Center network and, specifically for food product or farm-based energy business development, the Food and Agricultural Development Center network or Angie Nelson, Program Manager, by email at gta@mt.gov or by phone at 406-444-2402.