; (2) promoting business development that diversifies the income of producers of plant-based food products through processing and market innovation; and (3) encouraging the production and use of plant-based food products and domestic ingredients for such products. (b) Entities eligible To host initiative (1) In general Subject to paragraph (2), an entity is eligible to host an initiative under subsection (a) if such entity is a State department of agriculture or other State entity, a nonprofit organization, or an institution of higher education (as defined in section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 ( 20 U.S.C. 1001 )) that has— (A) a capacity to provide consultation and expertise necessary to advance the purpose and activities of the proposed initiative; and (B) expertise in grant distribution and tracking. (2) Ineligible entity Notwithstanding paragraph (1), an animal protein checkoff program shall not be eligible to host an initiative under subsection (a). (3) Application An eligible entity seeking to host an initiative under subsection (a) shall submit to the Secretary an application in such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may specify. (c) Consultation An entity that hosts an initiative shall consult with the Secretary, and the Administrator of the Agricultural Marketing Service in carrying out the initiative. (d) Partners (1) In general An entity eligible to host an initiative under subsection (a) may, for purposes of hosting such initiative, partner with an organization or entity with expertise or experience in proteins, including the marketing, research, education, or promotion of plant-based food product. (2) Timing A partnership established pursuant to paragraph (1) may be established— (A) prior to the submission of the application under subsection (d)