The U.S. Department of Agriculture is making up to $44 million available to farmers, ranchers and businesses to develop new bio-based products and expand markets through the Value-Added Producer Grant program.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack made the announcement April 8 in a press release.
Value-Added Producer Grants may be used to develop new products and create additional uses for existing ones. Priority for these grants is given to veterans, members of socially disadvantaged groups, beginning farmers and ranchers, and operators of small- and medium-sized family farms and ranches.
Additional priority is given to applicants who seek funding for projects that will create or increase marketing opportunities for these types of operators.
More information on how to apply is on page 20607 of the April 8 Federal Register. The deadline to submit paper applications is July 1. Electronic applications submitted through grants.gov are due June 24. Additional information and assistance is available through the USDA Rural Development Office serving counties.