Beef producers receive major share of USDA funding
The U.S. Department of Agriculture is investing $26.5 million through its Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG) Program to help agricultural producers across the country expand their businesses and develop new market opportunities.
The funding will support 194 projects focused on processing, marketing, market research, distribution, and the development of value-added agricultural products.
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins said the grants are intended to strengthen agricultural businesses, create additional revenue opportunities and support the nation’s beef industry.
“While the Biden Administration waged economic war against our ranchers and farmers, the Trump Administration is focused on putting our ranchers and farmers first. These grants represent another investment in the Great American Cattle Herd as we fortify the American beef industry,” said Secretary Rollins.
“By supporting our ranchers and agricultural producers as they develop new products and increase the value of what they grow and raise, we’re helping to create new revenue opportunities to grow the herd and create long-term economic resilience in rural communities across this nation,” Rollins added.
“USDA Rural Development partners with people in rural America so they have the tools they need to build stronger businesses and create jobs for people in their communities,” said Under Secretary for Rural Development Glen Smith.
“This program helps our producers eliminate the middleman, create homegrown products from the crops and animals they grow, and put more money in their pockets and their local communities. It’s a win all around and we’re glad to be a part of it,” Smith added.
Of the total investment, $11.6 million will support 80 projects involving beef producers. Recipients include Light Hill Meats in Tennessee, Family Farm Direct LLC in Pennsylvania and Blair Carney Farms LLC in Iowa. Their projects involve beef processing, marketing, distribution, and development of products such as dry-aged beef, jerky, and other Black Angus offerings.
VAPG applications are generally accepted between January and May, depending on when program funding becomes available.
Photo Credit: usda