USDA Rural Development will host a series of two free Agricultural Producer Workshops: Making Value Added Work for Your Operation at various locations in Montana this month.
These free one-day workshops will feature the USDA Value Added Producer Grant Program, which can help farmers and ranchers enter into value added activities. The workshops will also include a comprehensive line-up of speakers experiences in assisting agricultural producers with projects here in Montana.
Detailed presentations and panel discussions will be offered that address how the Value Added Producer Grant Program can help finance your value-added projects, opportunities for ag producers, and application assistance.
What: Making Value Added Work for Your Operation Workshop
When: Wednesday, April 17, 2019
Where: Flathead Valley Community College
777 Grandview Drive
Kalispell, Montana
RSVP: Contact lad.barney@mt.usda.gov or (406) 756-2005 x118
What: Making Value Added Work for Your Operation Workshop
When: Monday, April 29, 2019
Where: MMEC
2310 University Way
Bozeman, Montana
RSVP: Contact donna.andreassi@mt.usda.gov or (406) 585-2545
Each workshop agenda will be customized for the area and feature local resources and expertise. Call or email the contact listed above to request the agenda for a specific workshop and to learn more about other funding and technical assistance resources.
Why
Many agricultural producers continually seek ways in which to achieve a higher dollar return and expanded customer base for their commodities by producing value-added products. USDA will make available up to $32 million nationwide to farmers, ranchers, and businesses to develop new value-added products and expand markets.
Generating new products, creating and expanding marketing opportunities, and increasing producer income are the goals of USDA's Value Added Producer Grant Program. These grants support planning activities, such as developing a business plan, as well as provide working capital to implement viable value-added business plans.
The maximum grant amount for planning grants is $75,000 while the maximum amount for working capital grants is $250,000.
For more information...
Questions related to these workshops may be directed to Nathan Brown, Business & Cooperative Program Director, (406) 585-2549.