Applications Available Now for Value-Added Agriculture Grants

November 4, 2013

The Missouri Department of Agriculture announced the Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority (MASBDA) is now accepting applications for grants to assist farmers with business planning expenses for projects that develop, process, or market agricultural goods.

Grants are awarded on a competitive basis, and applications will be scored based on their economic development potential for the agriculture industry, credibility and merit, probability of near-term commercialization and practical application of project results, source and level of matching funds and the likelihood of a project’s success.

“As Missouri agriculture continues to grow, we will continue to lead the way in supporting our farmers’ innovations in production and processing technology,” said Acting Director of Agriculture Harry D. Bozoian. “Grants, like these for value-added agriculture, are important tools for Missouri’s producers and agribusinesses as they work to expand their operations and realize new opportunities.”

Earlier this year, MASBDA awarded more than $800,000 in grants to assist producers and agribusinesses explore ways to add value to their agriculture products.

Past projects have included feasibility studies for sunflower oil production, biomass pellets and bio-based building materials. Projects funded in previous years have also included business plans and marketing plans for locally produced pork and beef products, canned vegetables, wind energy, and on-farm dairy processing.

The maximum individual grant is $200,000. Applicants are required to provide a 10 percent cash match toward eligible expenses, which do not include operating expenses, salaries, or capital improvements. These grants are funded by contributions made to MASBDA through the purchase of tax credits.

Applications must be received by MASBDA no later than 5:00 p.m. Friday, December 20, 2013. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. For more information on the program and complete guidelines, visit mda.mo.gov or contact MASBDA at [email protected] or (573) 751-2129.