Value-added producer grant funding helps agricultural producer, business grow

On March 1, U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development announced the availability of $19.75 million in total funding for projects as part of the Value-Added Producer Grants program.

Individual farmers and ranchers, as well as agricultural businesses and producer groups, may apply for the grants, which must be used to develop new products or expand existing markets for value-added products.

The applicant must produce at least 50% of the raw agricultural product to which value is being added.

In addition to regular funding, applicants may specifically apply for COVID-relief funds allocated...