The Value-Added Producer Grant or VAPG program can help emerging industries take the next steps to becoming viable and expand their markets.

Just ask Drew Oberholtzer, the co-founder of Coexist Build, which was the 2021 recipient of a VAPG for hemp blocks. Coexist, located in Blandon, Berks County, Pa., used a grant of $49,135 to process and test hemp blocks for the construction industry. 

“Our intent with the VAPG grant was to feature a healthy and bio-based Accessory Dwelling Units or ADUs using the Coexist Hemp Block,” Oberholtzer said. “It now serves as a success story of how to build using agricultural raw material to benefit both people and the planet.”

Hemp Blocks are durable, lightweight, carbon-negative construction blocks made from industrial hemp, lime, and other minerals for superior thermal resistance and mechanical properties that improve energy efficiency and indoor air quality in buildings. 

Funds were also be used to enhance the marketing capability for hemp blocks through a fully integrated website to help the company market their products. The grant allowed Coexist to take the next steps in bringing their products effectively to the market. 

“What it has done is set us up to create the feasibility plan and roadmap to seek investment for an efficient, modern, and scalable process for commercialization.”

Since its development, Coexists Hemp Blocks have been used to manufacture a hemp house on wheels and tiny homes made of hemp blocks. The sky is the limit at this point as research, design, and further manufacturing increases the market for hemp- related products.

Oberholtzer and team also have taken additional steps to further connect Hemp Blocks with USDA’s BioPreferred program.

“The VAPG provided Coexist a pathway to certify the Coexist Hemp Block as a 100% bio-based product through USDA’s BioPreferred program,” Oberholtzer said. With the help of the USDA Rural Development VAPG program Hemp Blocks are building a more environmentally- friendly future in the construction industry.