By Andi Anderson
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced investments that will expand markets for agricultural producers and strengthen American food and agriculture supply chains in Michigan. The investments total $330,000 and will be used to support three projects.
The Welcome Home Organization, in Jackson County, will use a $30,000 Rural Business Development Grant to conduct a feasibility and engineering study for a business incubator, food hub, and commercial kitchen in Jackson. The project would repurpose the building to feature products from local beef, poultry, and herb farmers plus specialty items from small-business vendors.
Lakeview Hills Organic Farm LLC, in Leelanau County, will use a $250,000 Value-Added Producer Grant to assist with expanded sales of organic vegetables and flowers. This grant, combined with $250,000 in matching funds from the grantee, will be used to offset working capital costs related to sales to new customers.
Aurora Cellars LLC, also in Leelanau County, will use a $250,000 Value-Added Producer Grant to assist with working capital expenses to expand their market of direct-to-consumer sales of high-end wines through their reservation-only catered tasting experience.
These investments are part of the Biden-Harris Administration's efforts to champion America's farmers and ranchers by helping to expand businesses, support more robust American supply chains and save jobs. The USDA Rural Development provides loans, loan guarantees and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, tribal and high-poverty areas.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Michigan, Government & Policy, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Poultry