Everyone,

I wanted to let you know of three upcoming workshops for Value-Added Producers who may be interested in applying for the Value-Added Producer Grant through USDA.  We have publicized these events, but if you can relay this information to value-added producers you may know or those within your organizations or associations, this would be helpful. 

• February 10                        Clinton, TN

• February 12                        Jackson, TN

• March 4                               Columbia, TN

• All workshops will begin at 10AM local time and conclude by 3PM local time

• USDA personnel and UT Extension Specialists will present information on how they can develop a strong grant application

• There is a $15 registration fee and can be paid on-line; lunch will be provided

• Once someone registers for the workshop we will send them information to the meeting site

• The Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG) has two parts:

• Planning Grant                                  Up to $75,000 for feasibility studies; developing business plans; developing marketing plans

• Working Capital Grant                   Up to $250,000 for processing costs, marketing and advertising expenses and some inventory and salary expenses

• The VAPG grant requires matching funds of 100% of the grant amount for all applications

If you have questions, please let me know.

Thank you,          

Troy Dugger

Program Coordinator II

Helping Farmers Develop Value-Added Enterprises

Center for Profitable Agriculture