Claiming that the state's meat processing industry is a critical component of Wisconsin's food supply chain, Governor Tony Evers is designating $10 million in American Rescue Plan Act dollars to be used for a new grant program to help strengthen the processing sector. The governor along with Agriculture Secretary Randy Romanski announced the details of the Meat and Poultry Supply Chain Resiliency Grant Program on Monday. The purpose of the funding is to help grow Wisconsin's meat industry and improve the long-term viability of the state's livestock farmers.
"Wisconsin is home to hundreds of meat processors across the state who support our local communities, serve area farmers, connect with consumers, and contribute to our economy," said Gov. Evers. "This program will help us continue to build critical infrastructure and increase processing capacity, ensuring the industry can thrive."
As part of the program, Wisconsin meat processors will be eligible to apply for grants of up to $150,000. Applicants are required to provide a match of 100 percent of the grant amount, and funds will be awarded through a competitive selection process that will be administered and distributed by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture.
A similar program last year provided $200,000 in grant money that was earmarked from the state budget, though the money didn't go far as more than 100 applications were submitted requesting over $4.4 million in funding.
The application deadline for the new program is August 19.
Categories: Wisconsin, Business