Boost Ag business with Minnesota value-added Grants

By Scout Nelson

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is now accepting applications for two grant programs aimed at supporting value-added businesses and livestock processors looking to expand, modernize, or start their operations. These grants are designed to help increase sales of Minnesota agricultural products through equipment investments and facility improvements.

The two grant opportunities available are the Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) Value-Added Grant and the Meat, Poultry, Egg, and Milk Processing (MPEM) Grant programs. Both offer funding to businesses that plan to or are currently engaged in the processing of Minnesota agricultural products, including livestock, poultry, egg, and milk.

Eligible applicants include individuals, businesses, agricultural cooperatives, nonprofits, educational institutions, and local government units, including tribal governments. Applicants must be in Minnesota and authorized to conduct business in the state. The grants are open to new and existing processors alike.

The MDA has allocated approximately $2.5 million for these programs in fiscal year 2025, with awards ranging from $1,000 to $150,000. A cash match of 50% is required for the first $50,000 of project costs, with 75% required for the remaining amount.

Priority will be given to projects that enhance food safety, expand hemp fiber processing, increase access to kosher or halal markets, or boost meat and poultry processing, particularly slaughtering.

Grant applications will be accepted until 4 p.m. on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, through the MDA’s online system. Award decisions are expected by December 2024. For more information, visit the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s website.

Photo Credit:minnesota-department-of-agriculture