Grants of the Week: USDA Value-Added Producer Grant

Applications are being accepted now through March 31, 2008, for the USDA Value-Added Producer Grants (VAPG).

Eligible Applicants: Independent producers, farmer and rancher cooperatives, agricultural producer groups, and majority-controlled producer-based business ventures.

Activities Funded: "Grants may be used for planning activities and for working capital for marketing value-added agricultural products and for farm-based renewable energy" (USDA Rural Development).

According to the Wisconsin Agriculturist web site, "Wisconsin Agricultural groups and producers use VAPG funds for a variety of projects, including new venture start-up costs, feasibility studies to develop new products, expand product lines and grow brand marketing."

Planning grant maximum: $100,000
Working Capital grant maximum: $300,000

For more information or for assistance navigating the grant process, contact Barb Brewster, USDA Rural Development Office, Steven's Point, 715-345-7610; or Carl Rainey, Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, 608-224-5129.

Or go to: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/coops/vadg.htm