The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has announced that applications are now open for the 2026 Agriculture Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) Livestock Investment Grant Program. This initiative, first established by the state legislature in 2008, is designed to help farmers begin, improve, or expand their livestock operations. The program provides financial support for equipment purchases, facility improvements, and new construction.
According to data from the United States Department of Agriculture’s 2022 Census of Agriculture, livestock production in Minnesota is valued at over $11 billion annually and makes up about 40% of the state's agricultural sales. The grant program aims to support this significant sector by offering funding opportunities that address the needs of local producers.
This year’s grant cycle introduces expanded eligibility and higher reimbursement rates. Farmers can now receive a 50% reimbursement on the first $20,000 of eligible expenses and a 25% reimbursement on additional expenses. The maximum award per applicant is $25,000. In previous years, reimbursement was capped at only 10%. These changes were enacted during the 2025 legislative session to strengthen support for Minnesota farmers investing in their livestock operations.
“We heard from livestock producers that this grant needed to be updated to better meet their needs. Thanks to the legislators who listened and acted last session, we’ve been able to modernize the program and make it far more beneficial for farmers across Minnesota,” said MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen.
The MDA plans to distribute approximately $1.4 million through a competitive review process. Individual grants will range from $400 up to $25,000. Priority consideration will be given to several groups: applicants who have farmed for ten years or fewer; those involved in generational transitions; producers raising livestock for kosher or halal markets; requests involving robotic milking equipment; and applicants who have not previously received a Livestock Investment Grant.
Certain expenses are not covered under this grant program, including purchases of livestock themselves, feed costs, crop seed purchases, or debt refinancing. Details regarding full eligibility requirements and application procedures can be found on the AGRI Livestock Investment Grant webpage. Applications must be submitted online via the MDA portal by 4 p.m. CT on Thursday, November 13.
Funding for these grants comes from the broader AGRI Program administered by MDA. This program supports farmers, agribusinesses, schools, and other entities throughout Minnesota with grants aimed at advancing agriculture and renewable energy within the state.
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