By Scout Nelson
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has launched the Meat Processing Train & Retain Grant to help strengthen the state’s meat processing industry by addressing workforce challenges. The grant aims to assist small- to medium-sized meat and poultry processors in hiring and retaining employees through various incentive programs.
Organizations eligible for this funding include foundations focused on economic development, community financial institutions, and federally recognized economic development districts. The program offers financial support for projects such as tuition reimbursements, sign-on bonuses, and childcare stipends to attract workers to the industry.
The MDA plans to award up to $350,000 in total grant funding through a competitive selection process. Individual grants will range from $10,000 to $250,000, with all projects required to be completed by June 30, 2026.
Priority consideration will be given to organizations partnering with Minnesota State Colleges and Universities or those supporting meat and poultry processing businesses in distressed communities, as identified by the Economic Innovation Group’s Distressed Communities Index (DCI).
Applications for the grant must be submitted by 4 p.m. Central Time on April 28, 2025. Interested organizations can find more details and submit their applications online through the Meat Processing Train & Retain Grant web page.
Photo Credits:minnesota-department-of-agriculture
Categories: Minnesota, Government & Policy