The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has exciting news for those in the livestock business. They've unveiled the Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) Livestock Investment Grant. This is a yearly chance for farmers and ranchers in Minnesota to receive funds and better their operations. With such a move, MDA aims to strengthen Minnesota’s already massive $8 billion livestock field.
How much can one get? Well, for 2024, the MDA has around $1.5 million set aside for these grants. They'll decide who gets the funds through fair competition. What can you spend the money on? There are quite a few options. It can be equipment, buildings, water systems, fences, tools for feed, or gadgets to manage waste. Anything to kick-start, level-up, or grow your livestock business in Minnesota.
But who can apply? Any main person handling a livestock farm in Minnesota can give it a shot. Even if you’ve won before, you can apply again. Each farm can send in only one application. And if you've never won before, you might just have a better chance this time.
Now, the amount you ask for should be 10% of your total project cost. The minimum you can spend on your project is $4,000, and the maximum is $250,000. Depending on your expenses, your grant can be anywhere from $400 to $25,000. Remember, the grant will only cover costs after the deal is officially signed by everyone. And the MDA plans to have these contracts ready by early 2024.
For all those interested, make sure you send your applications by 4 p.m. on October 12, 2023. And to apply, just use the MDA’s online system.
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Categories: Minnesota, Livestock