((a)) ** In general** The Secretary may, on application of eligible entities, approve not more than 10 pilot projects to support public-private partnerships that address food insecurity and poverty.
((b)) ** Definitions** For purposes of this section—
((1)) the term “eligible entity” means—
((A)) a nonprofit organization;
((B)) a community-based organization;
((C)) an institution of higher education; or
((D)) a private entity, as determined by the Secretary; and
((2)) the term “public agency” means a department, agency, other unit, or instrumentality of Federal, State, or local government.
((c)) ** Project requirements** Projects approved under this section shall—
((1)) be limited to 2 years in length; and
((2)) include a collaboration between one or more public agencies and one or more eligible entities that—
((A)) improves the effectiveness and impact of the supplemental nutrition assistance program;
((B)) develops food security solutions that are specific to the needs of a community or region; and
((C)) strengthens the capacity of communities to address food insecurity and poverty.
((d)) ** Evaluation** The Secretary shall provide for an independent evaluation of pilot projects approved under this section that includes—
((1)) a summary of the activities conducted under the pilot projects;
((2)) an assessment of the effectiveness of the pilot projects; and
((3)) best practices regarding the use of public-private partnerships to improve the effectiveness of public benefit programs to address food insecurity and poverty.
((e)) ** Funding**
((1)) ** Authorization of appropriations** There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $5,000,000 to remain available until expended.
((2)) ** Appropriation in advance** Only funds appropriated under paragraph (1) in advance specifically to carry out this section shall be available to carry out this section.