Minnesota livestock producers encouraged to apply for grants

Aug 18, 2015

Upwards of $2 million being made available

Nearly $2 million in grant money is being made available by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture for on-farm improvements and Commissioner Dave Frederickson is encouraging farmers throughout the state to apply for the grants.

Fence

“Livestock Investment Grants help farmers stay competitive and reinvest in their industry,” he said. “Last year, we had 120 livestock farmers receive grants to improve their operation.”

Producers who qualify for the grants will be reimbursed 10% of the first $500,000 investment, with a minimum investment of $4,000. Expenses that qualify include purchasing, constructing or improving livestock buildings and facilities. Fences, feed, and waste management are also included.

Any producers who have suffered losses due to natural disasters are also eligible to apply. The grants will not pay for livestock, debt purposes or land purchases.

Since 2008, the Livestock Investment Grant has awarded 468 producers with funding, totaling nearly $150 million that’s been put back into Minnesota’s economy and agriculture industry.

“The Livestock Investment Grant Program helps encourage long-term development in Minnesota’s $7 billion livestock sector,” said Frederickson. “These grants have enabled livestock farmers to pay for new buildings or make renovations. In some cases, the recipients used the grants for modernizations and improvements that would help expedite the farm transition process to their sons or daughters.”

The application period closes on December 18^th, 2015 and anyone interested must apply online.

Join the conversation and tell us if you would apply for the Livestock Investment Grant. What would you use the money for?

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