The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is reminding Wisconsin meat processors of the approaching deadline to apply for meat processor grants. Eligible applicants must submit their applications by 5 p.m. on Friday, March 17.
This program aims to grow Wisconsin’s meat industry and improve the long-term viability of the state’s livestock industry. Eligible applicants must operate or intend to operate a DATCP or U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) licensed meat processing establishment in Wisconsin and be engaged in livestock harvest or processing. Projects must increase harvest capacity or production. Funding from these grants can be used for operating expenses directly related to the grant project, including expenses for engineering, architectural design, construction, food safety consultation, equipment, and equipment installation.
DATCP will award grants for up to $50,000 for projects that are up to two years in duration and help expand capacity or increase throughput. Processors are required to provide a 100% match of the grant amount. Recipients will be chosen through a competitive selection process.
Completed applications and questions can be submitted to Brenda Reinke at brendaj.reinke@wisconsin.gov. Grant recipients will be announced in May 2023.
Resources
- A webinar addressing FAQs and offering help for submitting applications: https://youtu.be/BGHdyzGcuj8
- Grant application and other materials: https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/
AgDevelopment/ MeatAndLivestockDevelopment. aspx
