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01/22/2006 Grants for Value Added Businesses Available
(Pierre, SD)- Value-added agriculture is a key to
improving South Dakota’s economy and keeping our agriculture industry
viable. USDA has announced the availability of $19 million in grants to
support the development of value-added agricultural business ventures and
renewable energy projects.
The grants may be used for: • planning activities, such as feasibility studies • marketing and business plan development for new value-added marketing opportunities • working capital for value-added business ventures, and • farm-based renewable energy projects. Eligible applicants are independent producers, farmer and rancher cooperatives, agricultural producer groups, and majority-controlled producer-based business ventures. Producers can apply for up to $100,000 for planning grants or $300,000 for working capital grants. Also this year, $1.5 million is being allocated to provide grants of $25,000 or less to eligible producers. Priority consideration will be given to applicants whose projects have at least 51% of their project costs dedicated to bioenergy. Renewable energy projects include biodiesel, ethanol or wind energy production, or the use of biomass to generate energy. Applications must be received no later than March 31, 2006. Detailed information and program requirements can be obtained at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/coops/vadg.htm or by contacting Gary Korzan at 605.352.1142. The South Dakota Department of Agriculture assists in the planning and writing of grants. This resource is available to producers, producer groups, small businesses, local governments and anyone with an interest in South Dakota agriculture and rural development. The department also maintains a comprehensive inventory of funding opportunities. For help with planning or writing a grant, contact Alison Kiesz at 605.773.5645 or alison.kiesz@state.sd.us.
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