The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced more than $26 million in grants Friday for farmers and agricultural producers working to expand value-added products and reach new markets.
USDA Rural Development is investing $26.5 million in 194 projects nationwide through the Value-Added Producer Grant program. Of that total, $11.6 million will go to 80 beef producer projects.The grants can be used to develop value-added agricultural products, conduct market research and carry out business and marketing strategies.
Among the projects highlighted by USDA, Light Hill Meats in Tennessee received $199,309 for processing, marketing, sales and distribution as it expands its beef products.
Family Farm Direct in Pennsylvania received $145,838 to support production and distribution of dry-aged beef products and jerky, while Blair Carney Farms in Iowa was awarded $48,000 for marketing and processing of Black Angus beef products.
USDA said applications for the Value-Added Producer Grant program are generally accepted between January and May, depending on when funding becomes available.
The agency said the program is intended to help agricultural producers create new products, expand markets and increase revenue opportunities in rural communities.
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