Value-added producer grants help producers grow their bottom line

A U.S. Department of Agriculture program is helping producers turn raw commodities into value-added products, allowing more of the income to remain in rural communities.

The Value-Added Producer Grant program, administered by USDA Rural Development, supports agricultural producers, as well as farmer and rancher cooperatives, that want to start or expand value-added activities. Producers can apply for up to $50,000 in planning grants or up to $200,000 in working capital grants. Applications are due April 22.

Funds can be used to pay for eligible post-harvest operational costs directly related t...