The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Heartland Regional Food Business Center (RFBC) have unveiled the availability of over $3.7 million in Business Builder Grants. These grants are aimed at supporting small, mid-sized, and diverse food and farm entrepreneurs across Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Nebraska, and northwest Arkansas. The initiative is designed to promote business expansion, job creation, and increased local products in regional markets.
Supporting Local Food Systems
The Business Builder Grants are a key component of the USDA’s broader effort to strengthen local and regional food systems. These grants will provide much-needed capital to help small and mid-sized farmers and food businesses expand their operations, develop new revenue streams, and increase market access. By fostering the growth of local food systems, the USDA aims to create a more resilient, diverse, and competitive food supply chain.
In May 2023, the USDA awarded $360 million to establish 12 USDA Regional Food Business Centers and a National Intertribal Food Business Center. These centers provide essential coordination, technical assistance, and capacity building to small and mid-sized producers and food businesses. The Heartland RFBC, led by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and rural Missouri community development corporation New Growth, plays a pivotal role in expanding the local and regional food system in the Heartland region.
Focus Areas for the Business Builder Grants
The Heartland RFBC’s Business Builder program will prioritize funding for:
– Small farms and businesses in both urban and rural areas that are part of the local and regional food value chain.
– Food and farm entrepreneurs from disadvantaged groups, including indigenous people, immigrants, veterans, and those with disabilities.
– Entrepreneurs eager to grow their businesses, from startup through expansion phases.
– Entrepreneurs who need guidance and resources to navigate the complexities of eligibility and application processes.
The grants, ranging from $5,000 to $50,000, will be awarded semi-annually. The first round of funding applications is open until October 15, 2024. An informational webinar on how to apply for these grants will be held on August 28, 2024, from 12 to 1 p.m. CT.
The USDA’s Business Builder Grants through the Heartland RFBC represent a significant investment in the future of local food systems. By empowering small and diverse food entrepreneurs, these grants will help build stronger, more resilient regional food networks that support healthy communities, sustainable ecosystems, and vibrant local economies.
If your business is sourcing quality frozen fruits and vegetables, contact us today! With over 40 years of experience as a global supplier, our extensive network of farms is ready to meet your needs for high-quality, nutrient-rich produce. Reach out now to secure your supply!
Source: USDA and the Heartland Regional Food Business Center Make Available Over $3.7 Million to Farm and Food Businesses in First Round of Business Builder Grants, August 15, 2024, USDA, www.usda.gov
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