Minnesota's Meat Industry Gets a Slice of Success!

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has awarded $350,000 in one-time grants to support meat education and training at secondary schools, aiming to equip students with the skills and knowledge for successful careers in the meat cutting and butchery field.

The MEAT Grant Program by the MDA provides Minnesota schools with funding to improve meat processing training programs. This program supports equipment purchases, facility renovations, curriculum development, faculty training, and other activities, promoting hands-on experiences and raising awareness about potential careers in the meat processing industry.

Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen emphasized the importance of meat cutting and butchery training programs in Minnesota's processing industry. These programs provide valuable skills and contribute to the growth of the meat processing sector. The MDA's support for these schools demonstrates its commitment to creating new pathways for students in this field.

The 2023 MEAT Grant recipients demonstrate the program's dedication to meat education growth and excellence. Each school, from Ashby Public School to West Central Area Schools, has been awarded grants based on their specific needs and goals, aiming to significantly impact the meat industry's future.

The MEAT Grant awards for 2023 have been distributed among the selected schools as follows:

• Ashby Public School - Award Total: $41,296.58

• Bertha-Hewitt Schools - Award Total: $50,000

• Byron High School - Award Total: $27,175.47

• Lac qui Parle Valley High School - Award Total: $70,000

• Morris Area High School - Award Total: $5,037.80

• Nicollet Public School - Award Total: $60,000

• ROCORI Public Schools - Award Total: $39,527.16

• Sibley East Public Schools - Award Total: $21,962.99

West Central Area Schools - Award Total: $35,000

The MDA's MEAT Grant Program is expected to create a positive impact on the meat processing industry by nurturing the next generation of skilled professionals.
 

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