Minnesota State Wire

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has announced the availability of funding through its Meat Processing Train & Retain Grant. This initiative aims to support partner organizations working with small- to medium-sized meat and poultry processors by providing one-time financial assistance.

The grant program encourages these organizations to develop projects that incentivize hiring and training new employees. Suggested initiatives include tuition reimbursements, sign-on and retention bonuses, and childcare stipends.

Eligible applicants for this grant are foundations involved in economic development, community development financial institutions, federally recognized economic development districts, and community development corporations.

The MDA plans to distribute up to $350,000 in grants through a competitive review process. The awards will range from a minimum of $10,000 to a maximum of $250,000. All funded projects must be completed by June 30, 2026.

Priority will be given to organizations collaborating with Minnesota State Colleges and Universities or those targeting distressed communities as identified by the Economic Innovation Group’s Distressed Communities Index (DCI).

Applications for the grant will be accepted until 4 p.m. Central Time on Monday, April 28, 2025. More information and application submissions can be made via the Meat Processing Train & Retain Grant web page.