The Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority (MASBDA) has awarded $4 million in grants to 28 projects to add value to agricultural products or provide educational opportunities in value-added agriculture.
Two of the grants, each worth $250,000, will go to Northwest Missouri State University and Rosier Farms Distilling Co. in Mound City. Northwest Missouri State University will use its grant to develop a new program to train farmers and entrepreneurs in value-added agriculture. Rosier Farms Distilling Co. will use its grant to expand its production of whiskey and other spirits made from Missouri-grown corn.
The other 26 grants will be used for a variety of projects, including developing new value-added products, expanding existing businesses, and providing educational opportunities.
The grants are funded by an appropriation from the Missouri General Assembly. They are part of a larger effort by the state to promote value-added agriculture.
Value-added agriculture is the process of transforming raw agricultural products into higher-value products. This can be done by adding ingredients, processing the product, or simply branding and marketing the product in a more appealing way.
There are many benefits to value-added agriculture. It can help to increase the profitability of farms, create jobs, and boost the state's economy. It can also help to reduce food waste and improve the sustainability of agriculture.
The grants awarded by MASBDA will help to support these efforts and promote the growth of value-added agriculture in Missouri.
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Categories: Missouri, Business