By Scout Nelson
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has opened applications for the 2026 Agriculture Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) Livestock Investment Grant Program. This program helps support livestock operations through funding for equipment, facility improvements, and new construction.
Created by the Minnesota legislature in 2008, the program strengthens the state’s $11 billion livestock sector, which accounts for 40% of total agricultural sales according to the United States Department of Agriculture’s 2022 Census of Agriculture.
This year’s program introduces major updates that expand eligibility and increase reimbursement rates. Farmers can now receive 50% reimbursement on the first $20,000 of eligible expenses and 25% on additional expenses, with a maximum grant award of $25,000. In the past, reimbursement was capped at just 10%.
“We heard from livestock producers that this grant needed to be updated to better meet their needs. Thanks to the legislators who listened and acted last session, we’ve been able to modernize the program and make it far more beneficial for farmers across Minnesota,” said MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen.
The MDA plans to award approximately $1.4 million through a competitive review process, with grants ranging from $400 to $25,000. Priority will be given to applicants who have farmed for ten years or fewer, operations transitioning between generations, producers serving kosher or halal markets, requests for robotic milking equipment, and those who have not previously received a Livestock Investment Grant.
The grant does not cover livestock purchases, feed, crop seed, or debt refinancing. Full eligibility requirements and application details are available on the AGRI Livestock Investment Grant webpage. Applications will be accepted until 4 p.m. CT on Thursday, November 13 through the MDA’s online portal.
Funding for the program comes from the MDA’s AGRI Program, which supports agriculture and renewable energy projects across Minnesota, helping farms and agribusinesses remain competitive and innovative.
Photo Credit:minnesota-department-of-agriculture
Categories: Minnesota, Government & Policy