USDA Rural Development State Director Dave Conine today announced that two businesses in Utah are receiving Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG) funds to explore product innovation and new marketing opportunities.
“These business owners are utilizing one of the most sought-after funding sources offered by USDA,” Conine said. “Value-Added Producer Grants allow agricultural producers and small businesses some flexibility to innovate with less risk which advances their potential.”
Today’s announcement in Utah is part of a larger, nationwide announcement of 325 projects awarded to rural agricultural producers and small business owners throughout the country. VAPG grants can be used to develop new product lines from raw agricultural products or promote additional uses for established products. Grants awarded through this program are a key element of USDA’s Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food initiative, which coordinates the Department’s work on local and regional food systems, which are a key component of rural economic development.
Cornaby’s Farm in Salem, Utah, is receiving a grant of $250,000 to support the market introduction of a new product, developed from their farm-grown local raspberries.
Stray Arrow Ranch, LLC in Torrey, Utah, is receiving a grant of $12,500 to produce a market feasibility study with the goal of creating a cidery plan for Utah’s first artisanal hard cider orchard.
To read more about USDA’s investments in rural America and its successful turnaround, visit USDA's entry on Medium.com, Rural America Is Back in Business.