USDA officials promote $60 million in available meat grants

The US Department of Agriculture confirmed its latest Small Processors Action Plan, which can allot up to $60 million for intermediate, small and very small meat processing plants.

The plan is part of Phase 4 of the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program, announced last month, on how the funds will be divided into two separate categories.

“We are removing overly burdensome red tape, improving service, and giving small plants the clarity and support these businesses need to operate safely, grow, and compete,” said Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins. “By expanding local processing capabilities, we’re continuing to bolster our domestic producers, which are central to the President’s Make America Healthy Again agenda.”

On June 3, the USDA hosted a press conference where Rollins and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy met in Richmond, Va., to discuss this program and how it would work for processors and ranchers.

Two types of applications will be available for businesses, starting with processing expansion projects. Those awards from Rural Development would range from $50,000 to $2 million.

The second available application will be a simplified equipment-only project, with awards ranging from $10,000 to $250,000.

Following the news, the American Association of Meat Processors (AAMP) provided its insights on the latest initiative.

“This plan shows that leadership in USDA and FSIS appreciates the value of the small and very small processor, particularly in today’s highly concentrated meat industry,” AAMP said in a social media post. “They have listened to our concerns when we have communicated with them and have sought feedback from our side of the industry. We appreciate their attention and look forward to continuing those conversations.”

The Meat Institute also came out in favor of the recent plan by the agency.