Pennsylvania is awarding $253,000 to organizations with projects designed to increase sales and exports of hemp products.

Pennsylvania’s Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for the grants until March 5, PennWatch reported. Projects aimed at promoting consumer awareness are also eligible.

“Hemp has presented a unique opportunity to build an industry from the ground up, supplying seemingly limitless environmentally sustainable construction materials, industrial fiber and food products just to name a few,” said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding.

“These competitive grants can help cultivate the growth of the industry that once was a staple of Pennsylvania’s economy and could once again support new jobs and income for Pennsylvanians.”

The projects must have started on or after July 1, 2020, and have to be completed by June 30, 2021. The grants will cover up to half of a project’s cost.

The state’s Department of Community and Economic Development is processing the applications.