The United States Department of Agriculture recently announced their commitment of $215 million in grants and other support to expand meat and poultry processing options and strengthen the American food supply chain.

USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack announced today that the $215 million will assist in enhancing the supply chain by creating projects that promote competition, increase resiliency, and create economic activity in rural America.

In order to support the meat and poultry industries, this new program has three parts to it. First is the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program (MPPEP), in which grants up to $25 million will be given out to expand the capacity of activities, including construction, expansion of existing facilities, and acquisition of equipment. Second is the investment of $40 million through existing workforce programs to provide a pipeline of well-trained workers. Finally, the MPPEP will also allow for independent entities proposing projects to gain support needed.

USDA Rural Development will make $150 million available to fund expansion and startup opportunities. More information about can be found at the USDA website.

By — Mary Balstad