The Meat Processing Train and Retain Grant, administered by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA), provides funding to partner organizations that support small- to medium-sized meat and poultry processors in Minnesota. This initiative aims to strengthen the meat processing workforce by funding hiring, training, and employee support activities. The grant is part of the state’s broader economic and workforce development strategy, focusing on building resilience in food supply chains and supporting rural and distressed communities.

Eligible applicants include partner organizations such as foundations engaged in economic development, community development financial institutions (CDFIs), federally recognized economic development districts, and community development corporations. These organizations must work directly with eligible meat and poultry processing operations, defined as state or federally licensed processors with fewer than 150 employees. Priority is given to those partnering with Minnesota State Colleges and Universities and those serving facilities located in distressed communities, as defined by the Economic Innovation Group’s Distressed Communities Index (DCI).

Funds from this grant can be used for a variety of workforce-related expenses, including tuition reimbursement, signing and retention bonuses, employee relocation assistance, and other related costs. The program is designed to reduce barriers to employment and increase staff retention at meat and poultry processing operations across the state.

The grant will distribute up to $350,000 through a competitive review process. Individual awards will range from $10,000 to $250,000. However, no single processing business may receive more than $50,000 in total, and no individual employee may receive more than $10,000 in benefits from this grant. All funded projects must be completed by June 30, 2026.

Applications are due by 4:00 p.m. Central Time on Monday, April 28, 2025. Applicants are encouraged to apply online through the Minnesota Department of Agriculture's grant portal. New users will need to create an account before submitting their application. Questions regarding the program can be submitted until 4:00 p.m. CT on April 21, 2025. All questions and responses will be posted publicly on the grant webpage.

For additional assistance, applicants may contact Maya Benedict at 651-201-6098 or via email at Maya.Benedict@state.mn.us. General inquiries can also be directed to the Ag Marketing & Development grants line at 651-201-6500.