Agricultural producers who want to generate new products from existing commodities or create and expand marketing opportunities could be eligible for funding available from the U.S. Department of Agriculture through the Value-Added Producer Grant program.
Approximately $14 million in grants are available to help agricultural producers enter into value-added activities. Awards may be made for either economic planning or working capital activities related to the processing or marketing of valued-added agricultural products. Beginning, disadvantaged and small or medium-sized farms or ranches will have priority.
There is a matching funds requirement of at least $1 for every $1 in grant funds provided by the agency. Matching funds must be available at the time of application and may be in the form of cash or eligible in-kind contributions.
Applications are available at www.rurdev.usda.gov/BCP_VAPG.html and can be sent to the Nevada State Office at 1390 S. Curry St. To submit an electronic application go to www.grants.gov. Applications must be received by Oct. 15.
For more information call 775-887-1222, ext. 118.