USDA Awards $26.5 Million for Value-Added Agriculture

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is awarding $26.5 million through its Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG) Program to support 194 agricultural projects across the country.

According to USDA, the grants can be used to develop value-added agricultural products, conduct market research, and implement business and marketing strategies. Of the total funding, $11.6 million will support 80 projects involving beef producers.

Beef Projects Receive $11.6 Million

USDA Rural Development highlighted several beef-related projects receiving funding.

Light Hill Meats in Columbia, Tennessee, will receive a $199,309 grant for processing, marketing, sales, and distribution as it expands its grain-finished, hormone-free beef products to new customers.

Family Farm Direct LLC in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, will receive $145,838 for supplies, distribution, and processing and manufacturing expenses related to turning Angus beef into dry-aged primal pet products and beef jerky. USDA said the project is expected to increase the company's customer base by almost 31,000 people and increase revenue by approximately $165,000.

Blair Carney Farms LLC in Adair County, Iowa, received $48,000 for marketing and processing activities. The funding will support the family-owned and operated company's efforts to expand its market for multiple Black Angus beef food products.

What Producers Need to Know

The VAPG program is intended to help agricultural producers develop products and pursue marketing strategies that add value to crops and livestock.

USDA said applications for the program are typically accepted for processing between January and May, depending on when program funding is allocated.

The grants are part of USDA Rural Development's broader programs supporting economic activity in rural communities. The agency said its programs also support areas including high-speed internet, electricity, infrastructure, health care, education, and housing.