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USDA offers grants to help underserved producers

The USDA has announced funding to help underserved producers access land, capital, and markets.

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says the up to $550 million investment is necessary for the future of the industry.

“With less than eight percent of our workforce under 35, it’s really necessary and important for us in the food and agriculture industry to continue to look for ways in which we can recruit, train, and attract the next generation of leaders.

Vilsack says help is also needed for distressed farmers.

During a call with reporters Wednesday, he says up to $300 million will be allocated for “Increasing Land, Capital and Market Access” Projects while $250 million is earmarked for the “From Learning to Leading: Cultivating the Next Generation of Diverse Food and Agriculture Professionals” program to create career development opportunities.

House Agriculture Committee Chairman David Scott applauded the announcement, saying the programs announced will deliver on the Biden Administration’s commitment to invest in equity and underserved producers.