New Grants Support Ag Product Sales

By Scout Nelson

Minnesota is offering grants for ag businesses to expand processing, improve equipment, and grow sales of local farm products. Applications are due August 7, 2025, via the MDA website.

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is now accepting applications for two major grant programs aimed at boosting the sale of local agricultural products. These grants will help value-added businesses and livestock product processors modernize or expand their operations.

The AGRI Value-Added Grant and Meat, Poultry, Egg, and Milk Processing (MPEM) Grant provides funds for equipment and facility improvements. These upgrades can increase production, reach new markets, and improve product safety.

Eligible applicants include individuals, businesses, cooperatives, nonprofits, schools, local governments, and Tribal governments. All applicants must be located in Minnesota and authorized to do business in the state.

To qualify, the applicant must already process—or plan to process—Minnesota-grown agricultural products or be involved in meat, poultry, egg, or milk processing. The grants are competitive and will be awarded a total of around $2 million in 2025.

Each grant ranges from $1,000 to $150,000. Awardees must provide a cash match: 50% for the first $50,000 of project costs and 75% for expenses beyond that up to $150,000.

The state will give priority to projects that:

• Improve food safety
• Expand hemp fiber processing
• Increase access to kosher or halal markets

Strengthen meat and poultry processing, especially slaughter

Applications are open until 4 p.m. on August 7, 2025, and must be submitted through the MDA’s online application system.

These grants offer a strong opportunity for Minnesota businesses to grow their impact, improve safety, and access wider markets while promoting local agriculture. For more information or to apply, visit the official Minnesota Department of Agriculture website.

Photo Credit: minnesota-department-of-agriculture