MEAT & Livestock Australia is willing to sponsor grassroots producer events to the tune of up to $10,000 in its second-round sponsorship applications process for early 2017.

MLA is offering sponsorship support and expert speakers for events and initiatives that bring long-term benefit and add value to the red meat industry.

All events that contribute to industry and provide a worthwhile experience for producers and others in the value chain are eligible for financial support or resources on the day.

Applications close Thursday, December 1, this year for event sponsorships of $10,000 and less and in-kind MLA resource support for events held from January 1 to June 30, 2017.

The events must target commercial red meat producers, with no specific breed focus, allow for an MLA presentation or speaker and appropriate levels of branding, and where appropriate, include an interactive display, session or presentation.

While all events that bring benefit to producers are considered, priority is given to those related to livestock production which build awareness of research and development (R&D) and stimulate adoption of new tools, technologies and practices.

The events must also:

• Include agreed measures of success such as number of attendees, satisfaction or usefulness scores and participation in follow-up activities;
• Align with the priorities set out in MLA’s strategic plan, which contributes to the profitability, sustainability and global competitiveness of the red meat and livestock industry (click here for further information);
• Deliver a post-event analysis within four weeks of event concluding, and;
• Provide follow-up opportunities post-event to further circulate or enhance the information delivered (including events, online content, workshops, etc.)

Any group or organisation whose event meets the criteria is encouraged to apply for MLA event sponsorship. Applications for second round MLA sponsorship closeThursday, 1 December 2016.

MLA recognises the value in supporting local events and grassroots producer education and is committed to supporting groups which take the initiative to engage and inform the industry.

In the last 12 months, MLA has supported over 75 events, including a King Island Beef Group day, the 2016 Agribusiness Sheep Updates, a forum on the successful farming of meat goats, and a weaning acclimation workshop.

MLA said all the events benefited from MLA sponsorship support or in-kind contributions and reached a wide network of producers to provide valuable, seasonal and relevant on-farm information at a localised level.

To find out more about seeking support from MLA for an event or activity contact MLA Events & Sponsorship Officer Fiona Looker on 02 9463 9391 or email [email protected]

More information is also available on the MLA website: http://www.mla.com.au/News-and-events/Events-and-workshops/Request-MLA-sponsorship.