USDA Cuts Program and Pulls Grant Funds for Small Farm and Food Businesses

By Macy Byars

The USDA Agricultural Marketing Service announced last week that it will cut the Regional Food Business Center (RFBC) program, which provides grants to small and medium-sized local farm and food businesses.

The federal program aimed to strengthen food supply chains and provide easier access to fresh, local foods.

Since 2023, the Heartland Regional Food Business Center has served Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas. It will end normal operations on Sep. 15.

Co-director Mary Emery said the Heartland Center was a strong, collaborative effort with 14 key partners across the Midwest.