Value-Added Producer Grants for Farmers and Ag Producers to Expand Opportunities and Generate More Revenue

Feb 24, 2025

By Val Ankeny

Agricultural producers looking to expand their operations through value-added products are encouraged to apply for a Value Added Producer Grant (VAPG). Applications will be accepted through April 17.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development announced $30 million in funding for the VAPG program, which provides grants for producers as well as farmer and rancher cooperatives. The funding can be used to generate new products and create or expand marketing opportunities that help producers generate additional income.

Up to $75,000 is available for planning grants, or up to $250,000 for working capital grants. Matching funds of 100% are an eligibility requirement.

Planning activities may include conducting feasibility studies or the development of business and marketing plans. Working capital expenses may include processing costs, marketing and advertising expenses, or select inventory and salary expenses.

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Video: New Solution Powers Efficient Pork Growth

Alltech has introduced Olerix, an innovative phytogenic blend created to promote growth and feed efficiency in pigs. Through a proprietary coating process, the bioactive blend of phytogenic compounds used in Olerix is designed to outlast the manufacturing process, ensuring consistent outcomes from feed to finish. The result is a high-impact efficiency solution that provides consistent support for gut health, feed efficiency, immune function and growth performance. Olerix is backed by validated trials conducted under modern pork production conditions.

“As the industry searches for technology to drive profitability forward in a more sustainable manner, we’re thrilled to join that effort with our Olerix technology,” said Mark Hulsebus, general manager for U.S. pork at Alltech. “Our work in this phytogenic space is yielding very encouraging results, and we’re excited to make this new opportunity available to pork producers focused on optimizing feed efficiency and growth rates.”

“Olerix represents the next generation of phytogenic technology — combining feed efficiency, livability and immune support into a practical commercial solution producers can implement today,” said Andy Rash, U.S. monogastric director at Alltech.