NY awards $4.25M to expand meat processing

By Blake Jackson

The Hudson Valley AgriBusiness Development Corporation (HVADC) has allocated $4.25 million to 26 projects across 19 New York counties through the Meat Processing Expansion Grant Program. Administered by HVADC in collaboration with the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, the program supports the expansion or establishment of meat processing facilities, addressing the national shortage of affordable meat.

The grants will aid processors in expanding their capacity by over 4.8 million pounds annually, with more than 3.6 million pounds sourced from New York farms. The initiative supports rural economies, enhances the state's food supply chain, and provides local farmers with easier access to affordable meat processing. The program prioritizes businesses with USDA inspection status and those planning to move to USDA-inspected status. It contributes to cumulative project costs of nearly $9.5 million statewide.

The Meat Processing Expansion Grant Program aligns with efforts to create a resilient food supply chain and follows Senator Michelle Hinchey's commitment to addressing challenges faced by meat farmers. HVADC Executive Director Todd Erling emphasizes the program's importance in meeting the growing need for processors in critical locations throughout the state. The initiative encourages the development of resilient food systems and supports farmers, lowering costs while enhancing access to locally sourced food for New York families. With 39 applications requesting over $7 million from across the state, the program has demonstrated its significance in addressing meat processing challenges and promoting the growth of agribusinesses in New York. For more information, please visit: www.hvadc.org.

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