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USDA opens more grant programs to expand local meat processing

The USDA has opened two additional grant programs to support local meat and poultry processing expansion.

The agency has made $125 million available for the programs designed to improve processing infrastructure in tribal nations and areas with small and underserved farmers and ranchers.

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says the programs will create more options for meat and poultry farmers, increase competition and enhance resiliency of the food supply chain.

The Local Meat Capacity Grant Program offers up to $75 million in grants for small-scale expansion and equipment projects that provide producers with more local processing options and market potential.

The Indigenous Animals Harvesting and Meat Processing Grant Program provides up to $50 million to expand local capacity for harvesting, processing, storing, transporting and distributing meat from indigenous animals like bison, reindeer and salmon in tribal nations.

Applications are due July 19^th.