The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is currently accepting applications for the Fiscal Year 2025 Agriculture Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) Livestock Investment Grant Program. This program aims to support Minnesota livestock farmers and ranchers by providing funding to improve, update, and modernize their livestock operation infrastructure and equipment. A total of approximately $1.125 million is available for this funding round, which will be awarded through a competitive review process. The grant amounts can range from a minimum of $4,000 to a maximum of $250,000, with applicants able to request up to 10 percent of their project's total cost.

The primary purpose of the AGRI Livestock Investment Grant is to encourage long-term development within the livestock industry in Minnesota. The funding is intended to assist farmers and ranchers in making necessary improvements to their operations, which may include the purchase of equipment, physical enhancements to facilities, and the acquisition of infrastructure that supports livestock production. Eligible projects can involve the construction of buildings or facilities for livestock production, the development of pastures, and the procurement of equipment for housing, feeding, and waste management.

To be eligible for this grant, applicants must be the principal operator of a livestock operation in Minnesota that produces and sells at least $1,000 of livestock products annually. Additionally, applicants must be residents of Minnesota or authorized business entities within the state and must hold an appropriate feedlot registration when applicable. The program is open to all counties in Minnesota, making it accessible to a wide range of livestock producers.

The submission requirements for the grant include a completed application form, which can be found on the MDA website. Applicants should ensure that all project materials and services are purchased and paid for after a grant contract agreement has been signed. Expenses incurred prior to the contract start date are not eligible for reimbursement. The grant will not cover costs related to livestock, general-purpose buildings, animal feed, or debt refinancing.

Evaluation criteria for the grant will focus on the potential impact of the proposed project on the applicant's livestock operation, the feasibility of the project, and the overall benefit to the livestock industry in Minnesota. The MDA will assess applications based on these factors during the competitive review process.

The deadline for submitting applications for the AGRI Livestock Investment Grant is November 14, 2024. Interested applicants are encouraged to prepare their proposals in advance to ensure timely submission. For further information, applicants can contact Courtney VanderMey at the MDA via email or phone. This grant program represents a significant opportunity for livestock producers in Minnesota to secure funding for essential improvements to their operations.