Value-Added Producer Grant
ID: 358236Type: Posted
Overview

Buyer

Rural Business-Cooperative Service (USDA-RBCS)

Award Range

$0 - $250K

Eligible Applicants

Others

Funding Category

Agriculture

Funding Instrument

Grant

Opportunity Category

Discretionary

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes

Original Source

https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/358236

Additional Information

https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/value-added-producer-grants
Timeline
    Description

    The Rural Business-Cooperative Service of the USDA is offering the Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG) program to support agricultural producers and cooperatives in initiating or expanding value-added activities related to agricultural products. This grant program aims to enhance producer income by funding planning grants up to $75,000 and working capital grants up to $250,000, with a total estimated funding of $30 million available for Fiscal Year 2025. Eligible applicants include agricultural producers, cooperatives, and socially disadvantaged farmers, who must demonstrate economic viability and sustainability in their proposals. Applications must be submitted electronically through the Grant Application Portal by 11:59 p.m. ET on April 17, 2025, and interested parties can contact the Program Management Division at CPGrants@usda.gov or by phone at (202) 720-1400 for further information.

    Point(s) of Contact
    CPGrants@usda.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    VAPG-NOFO-FY25.pdf
    The Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG) program, managed by the Rural Business-Cooperative Service of the USDA, aims to support for-profit agricultural producers and cooperatives in initiating or expanding value-added activities related to agricultural products. For Fiscal Year 2025, approximately $30 million is allocated, with funding available for planning grants (up to $75,000) and working capital grants (up to $250,000). Applications must be submitted electronically by April 17, 2025. Eligible applicants include a range of agricultural entities, including cooperatives and socially-disadvantaged farmers. There are specific requirements, including the need for a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and registration in SAM.gov. Applications will be scored competitively based on factors such as technological feasibility, operational efficiency, and the qualifications of key personnel. The funding process reserves a portion of funds for beginning, veteran, and socially disadvantaged farmers, as well as food safety projects. Applicants must demonstrate economic viability and sustainability in their proposals. The program fosters innovation in agriculture, aiming to enhance producer income through competitive grants, ensuring compliance with federal regulations throughout the application and award period.
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