Value-Added Grant & Upcoming Deadlines

On By North Carolina Small Farm AssociationIn Uncategorized
FSA Outreach Focus
USDA

FSA Outreach Focus

Reaching Out to Keep Farmers and Ranchers Informed

April 15, 2016

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$44 Million Available Through Value-Added Producer Grant

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the availability of $44 million to farmers, ranchers and businesses to develop new bio-based products and expand markets through the Value-Added Producer Grant program.

“America’s farmers, ranchers and rural business owners are innovative entrepreneurs and this program helps them grow economic opportunities for their families and communities by increasing the value of the items they produce,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.

Value-Added Producer Grants may be used to develop new products and create additional uses for existing ones. Priority for these grants is given to veterans, members of socially disadvantaged groups, beginning farmers and ranchers, and operators of small- and medium-sized family farms and ranches. Additional priority is given to applicants who seek funding for projects that will create or increase marketing opportunities for these types of operators. Learn more or apply today.

USDA Expands Safety-Net for Dairy Operations

Dairy farms participating in the Margin Protection Program (MPP) can update their production history when an eligible family member joins the operation.

“This change not only helps to strengthen a family dairy operation, it also helps new dairy farmers get started in the family business, while ensuring that safety-net coverage remains available for these growing farms,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.

The MPP, established by the 2014 Farm Bill, protects participating dairy producers when the margin – the difference between the price of milk and feed costs – falls below levels of protection selected by the applicant. Read more or stop by a local FSA office for more information.

Announcements & Upcoming Deadlines

  • Applications for the Request for Applications (RFA) for Outreach, Education, Financial Literacy and Technical Assistance will continue to be accepted through July 11, 2016. FSA has allocated $2.5 million to fund between 25 and 125 awards to partner with non-government organizations with a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS and public and State controlled institutions of higher education. ACMF and include your name, organization and contact information.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Ave., SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (866) 632-9992 (Toll-free Customer Service), (800) 877-8339 (Local or Federal relay), (866) 377-8642 (Relay voice users).