Minnesota livestock farmers and ranchers seeking to improve their livestock operations are encouraged to apply for the Agricultural Growth, Research and Innovation livestock investment grant program.

MDA anticipates awarding up to $768,000 using a competitive review process.

The AGRI Program’s livestock investment grants encourage long-term industry development in Minnesota’s $7 billion livestock industry through investment in facilities, infrastructure and equipment.

The program encourages new farmers and generational transitions in order to sustain the livestock industry in the state. Funding for the grants was established through the AGRI Program to advance Minnesota’s agricultural and renewable energy industries.

Applicants may apply for up to 10% of their project’s total cost. Grant awards can range in size from $400 to $25,000. Each livestock operation is eligible to receive a lifetime maximum of $50,000 from this grant program. To be eligible for reimbursement by this grant, you must be invoiced and pay for all project materials and services between Jan. 1, 2020 and June 30, 2021.

MDA must receive proposals no later than 4 p.m. on Dec. 18 for them to be considered. Farmers may use an online application.

Can’t apply online? Fill out the application at the end of the Request for Proposals, which can be found on the AGRI Livestock Investment website.

Value-added products grant program

MDA is also accepting applications for the AGRI value-added grant program.

MDA anticipates awarding up to $1 million using a competitive review process.

The intent of the program is to increase sales of Minnesota agricultural products by investing in production capacity, market diversification and market access for value-added products. For-profit businesses, agricultural cooperatives and local governments may apply for funding to purchase equipment or to conduct feasibility studies.

Grant funds reimburse up to 25% of the total project cost. The maximum equipment award is $150,000, and the minimum award is $1,000. The maximum feasibility study award is $25,000, and the minimum award is $1,000. Grant details, including eligibility, are explained in the request for proposals. There will only be one round of funding this fiscal year.

Applications must be received no later than 4 p.m. on Jan. 23 in order to be considered for funding. Applicants can submit proposals through the online application system.

Full grant details are available at the AGRI Value-Added Grant website.

Funding for the grants was established through the AGRI Program to advance Minnesota’s agricultural and renewable energy industries.

Source: MDA, which is solely responsible for the information provided and is wholly owned by the source. Informa Business Media and all its subsidiaries are not responsible for any of the content contained in this information asset.