By Blake Jackson
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development New York Director Brian Murray announced last week over $1.4 million in Value Added Producer Grant (VAPG) investments across 10 projects throughout rural New York.
These investments are part of a nationwide effort by USDA to expand markets for agricultural producers and strengthen American food and agriculture supply chains. Investments will support the growth of rural businesses, create jobs, and increase access to affordable, locally sourced food for consumers.
In New York, the VAPG investments will support a variety of projects, including:
- Elly’s Acres Farm, LLC: This project will receive $72,150 in grant funding to expand its locally produced lamb line.
- Tucker’s Black Angus Ranch: This project will receive $206,200 in grant funding to expand its customer base and add sales to schools in Northern New York.
- North Country Creamery: This project will receive $250,000 in grant funding to expand its product line by making yogurt and cheese.
- Erba Verde Farms, LLC: This project will receive $93,488 in grant funding to expand its processed pasture raised broiler chicken line.
These are just a few examples of the many projects that will be supported by VAPG investments in New York. These investments will help to create a more resilient and diverse food supply chain, and they will also provide much-needed support to rural businesses.
The VAPG is one of several programs that USDA Rural Development offers to support rural businesses and communities. Other programs include the Rural Business Development Grant Program, the Business and Industry Loan Guarantees program, the Food Supply Chain Guaranteed Loan Program, and the Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program.
USDA Rural Development is committed to helping rural communities thrive. The investments announced today are just one example of the department's work to support rural businesses and create jobs.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: New York, Government & Policy