Michigan Awards Grants to Boost Ag Processing Growth

By Andi Anderson

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), alongside the Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development, has awarded $415,000 in Food and Agriculture Investment Program (FAIP) grants to support the growth of Michigan’s food and agriculture industry.

These grants will help expand production, improve infrastructure, and create 15 new jobs.

Three companies received funding: Burnette Foods, Inc., Community Cuts, LLC, and Meating Hall, LLC.

Burnette Foods, Inc., located in Van Buren County, received $190,000 toward a $5 million expansion project. This project will allow the company to process 11.5 million additional pounds of apples annually and create ten new jobs. “This funding strengthens our capacity and supports local supply chains,” said William B. Sherman, Hartford Site Manager.

Community Cuts, LLC, in Ogemaw County, received $125,000 to construct an 8,000-square-foot, USDA-inspected meat processing facility. The $1 million project will generate five new jobs and improve access to locally raised meat. Co-owner Sharon David emphasized the project’s value to rural communities and food security.

Meating Hall, LLC (Tolman’s Meats), based in Grand Rapids, received $100,000 to install a 2,500-square-foot blast freezer. The upgrade will increase production capacity by over 8 million pounds annually and expand retail offerings. CEO Brandon Bassett stated the grant would strengthen partnerships and grow their workforce.

FAIP provides financial support for food and agriculture processing projects that drive industry growth, enhance food safety, and strengthen Michigan’s economy. Since 2019, MDARD has awarded over $5.3 million in FAIP grants, contributing to over $184 million in total state investment toward agricultural infrastructure, jobs, and food security.

These latest investments showcase MDARD’s ongoing commitment to supporting rural development, enhancing local food systems, and promoting Michigan’s agricultural prosperity.

Photo Credit: karolina-grabowska