FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - The American Lamb Board is now soliciting 2005 Matching Grant Program proposals. The new application is available at www.americanlamb.com or by calling Rae at (866) 327-5262. According to ALB Chairman Spence Rule, The ALB developed the Matching Grant Program to expand their marketing and promotions activities by creating collaborative partnerships with industry organizations. The projects that have been funded in 2004 have expanded ALBs efforts to educate consumers, retailers and chefs at the local level.

A total of $40,000 is budgeted for 2005 grant funding. The grants require a 1-to-1 cash match from the grant recipient. In-kind contributions are not considered for the matching requirement. Industry organizations are invited to submit proposals that expand or strengthen the market for American Lamb. Creative marketing projects which include a collaborative effort amongst industry organizations and industry sectors are encouraged.

For more information including the Grant applications, please call Rae Maestas at the American Lamb Board (866) 327-LAMB. The deadline for receiving grant applications is July 8, 2005.

The American Lamb Board (ALB) is a national promotion, research and information organization whose purpose is to strengthen the position of lamb and lamb products in domestic and foreign markets. The 13-member board, appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture, is composed of six producers, three feeders, one seedstock producer and three first handlers. The work of the Board is overseen by the U.S. Department of Agricultures (USDA) Agriculture Marketing Service. All grants approved by ALB are subject to USDAs review and approval.

#