Minnesota Awards $560K for Meat Processing Training

By Scout Nelson

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has awarded over $560,000 in grants to enhance workforce development and hands-on training in meat processing across the state.

Funding was distributed through two complementary initiatives: the Meat Processing Train and Retain Grant program and the Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) Meat Education and Training (MEAT) Grant program.

Through the Train and Retain program, $341,690 was granted to three organizations focused on strengthening the workforce for small- and medium-sized meat and poultry processors.

This one-time funding supports employee recruitment and retention through activities such as tuition reimbursement, sign-on and retention bonuses, and childcare stipends. The initiative aims to address significant labor shortages within the industry.

Train and Retain Grant Recipients include:

• Latino Economic Development Center - Will aid a new meat processor in Lismore and provide hiring and training support for up to five additional facilities.
• Region Five Development Commission - Will offer tuition assistance for meat processing courses and sign-on bonuses to processors within a 60-mile radius.
• Mapleton Economic Development Authority - Will support the hiring and training of two full-time employees for a new processing facility in the area.

In addition, the MDA awarded $222,360 in fiscal year 2025 through the AGRI MEAT Grant program. This funding helps schools launch or expand meat cutting and butchery training programs by covering costs for equipment, facility improvements, curriculum development, and faculty training. Six schools across Minnesota received grants through this program.

“These grant programs are part of our ongoing efforts to support workforce development and ensure a thriving meat processing sector,” said Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen. “By investing in both industry training and education, we’re helping to meet growing demand while creating meaningful career opportunities for the next generation.”

The AGRI Program supports a wide range of grants for farmers, agribusinesses, schools, and other organizations across Minnesota, fostering growth in both agriculture and renewable energy sectors. Full details of the 2025 AGRI Meat Education and Training (MEAT) Awards are available online.

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