By Blake Jackson
The U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development is providing $800,000 to support four value-added agriculture projects in Wisconsin.
USDA Rural Development Wisconsin State Director Andrew C. Iverson announced the funding, which is being awarded through the Value-Added Producer Grants program.
The grants will help Wisconsin agricultural businesses expand their markets, develop new products, increase sales, and create or retain jobs in rural communities.
“Wisconsin’s agricultural producers are engaged in a wide range of innovative activities from converting maple syrup into natural energy products, to repurposing worm castings as organic soil amendments, and advancing the production of pasteurized meats, crop seeds, and other goods,” said Iverson.
“These initiatives exemplify how USDA Rural Development supports rural Wisconsin producers as they establish new revenue opportunities, strengthen local economies, expand employment, and increase access to high‑quality agricultural products,” Iverson added.
GW Organics, LLC, based in East Troy, will receive $200,000 to expand the marketing, sales and shipping of its pasteurized beef and poultry. The company expects to reach 1,118 additional customers, generate $347,375 in additional revenue, and save two jobs.
Lush Farms, LLC, in New Berlin, also received $200,000 to increase sales and shipping of worm castings, a nutrient-rich soil amendment. The project is expected to add nine customers, generate $852,111 in revenue, and create one job.
Driftless Seed Company, LLC, in Soldiers Grove, will use $200,000 to process, market and expand sales of organic specialty crop seeds, including vegetable, flower and native prairie varieties. The project will also create four jobs.
B&E's Trees, LLC, in Viroqua, received $200,000 to expand its maple syrup energy products into new markets. The company expects to add 7,698 customers, generate $446,471 in revenue, create two jobs, and save two existing positions.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Wisconsin, Business, Government & Policy