The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is now accepting applications for its Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) Value-Added Grant program. The program offers grants to help Minnesota processors add value to Minnesota agricultural products by investing in the purchase of equipment, production capacity, market diversification, and market access for value-added products. Eric Nooker of the MN Department of Agriculture says the grant is working to increase the sales of agricultural products in the state.

The MDA anticipates awarding approximately $1,000,000 using a competitive review process. The maximum equipment award is $150,000, and the minimum award is $1,000. Nooker talked about some examples of what the grant could be used for.

The AGRI Value-Added Grant application must be received by 4 p.m. on Thursday, March 24. For more information, visit the AGRI Value-Added Grant Program website.