USDA has announced that they are accepting applications through the Value Added Producer Grant Program.  These grants provide economic assistance to independent producers, farmer and rancher cooperatives and agricultural producer groups.  Grant funds may be used for feasibility studies or business plans, working capital for marketing value-added agricultural products and for farm-based renewable energy projects.  Value-added products are created when a producer increases the consumer value of an agricultural commodity in the production or processing stage.


Application deadline is August 29, 2011. For more information click here. 

Summer is here and many Farmers' Markets are in full swing selling fresh, local produce to area residents on a weekly basis.  Besides ISDA's Farmers' Market Cost Share Program, there is another funding source out there for Farmers' Markets to apply to for funding.

USDA is once again offering the Farmers' Market Promotion Program Grant for 2011 and allocated $10 million to be awarded through grants for this program.  Funding is to be used to increase domestic consumption of agricultural commodities by improving and expanding, or assisting in the improvement and expansion of domestic farmers markets, roadside stands, community-supported agriculture programs, agri-tourism activities and other direct producer-to consumer market opportunities; and to develop, or aid in the development of new farmers markets, roadside stands, community-supported agriculture programs, agri-tourism activities, and other direct producer-to-consumer marketing opportunities

Eligible applicants include: Agricultural Cooperatives, Producer Network, Producer Associations, Local Government, Nonprofit Corporation, Public Benefit Corporation, .Economic Development Corporation, or a Regional Farmers Market Authority.

Award amounts can range from $5,000 to $100,000.  Applications are due July 1, 2011.  And more information can be found Here.