USDA invites applications for grant

CHAMPAIGN — Illinois USDA Rural Development State Director Colleen Callahan has announced applications are being accepted for grants to provide financial assistance to independent producers, farmer and rancher cooperatives, majority-controlled producer-based business ventures, and agricultural producer groups through the Value-Added Producer Grant Program.

“This funding helps farmers with the capital they need to develop their value-added business and pursue marketing opportunities,” Callahan said. “These grants can be a catalyst to pursue or expand value-added ventures and improve financial return.”

Application deadline is Aug. 29. For further details about eligibility rules and application procedures, go to www.rurdev.usda.gov/BCP_VAPG_Grants.html or call Matt Harris at 217-403-6211.

Value-added products are created when a producer increases the consumer value of an agricultural commodity in the production or processing stage. Rural Development provides value-added planning grants of up to $100,000 for activities such as creating business plans, feasibility studies, and marketing plans. Working capital grants up to $300,000 are available for expenses such as labor, inventory, office equipment and fees for marketing and consulting. Recipients must match the grants dollar for dollar.