North Dakota advances ag sector with $861K in grants

By Scout Nelson

Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring recently announced a significant investment in North Dakota's agriculture sector. The Agriculture Diversification and Development (ADD) Fund awarded $861,581 to six promising projects.

These awards, approved in Bismarck, aim to strengthen and diversify the state's agriculture industry by supporting new and expanding businesses.

Administered by the North Dakota Department of Agriculture, the ADD Fund aims to boost the state's economy by supporting new or expanding agriculture-related businesses.

These projects demonstrate not only financial feasibility but also the potential to enhance profitability for farmers and ranchers, create jobs, and foster overall economic growth.

Eligible ventures range from food and feed processing to commodity processing and animal production facilities, reflecting the diverse opportunities within the agricultural industry.

The projects that received approval for funding include:

• Three Farm Daughters LLC: Awarded $51,581 for co-packing machines to increase bulk pasta production.
• NoKota Packers, Inc.: Received $250,000 for an optical sorting machine and a robotic palletizer, enhancing efficiency.
• Rhino Meat Processing LLC: Granted $100,000 for meat processing equipment to boost production volume and food safety.
• Square Butte Farm: Allocated $110,000 for hoop buildings for cattle finishing, improving livestock management.
• Two Track Malting, LLC: Awarded $100,000 to expand operations and meet the rising demand for craft malt.
• Associated Potato Growers, Inc.: Received $250,000 for a new packaging machine and robotic palletizer, increasing productivity.

This strategic investment in agriculture projects represents North Dakota's proactive approach to maintaining a robust and innovative agricultural sector.

By supporting these projects, the state ensures the advancement of technology, infrastructure, and processes critical to agricultural production and efficiency.

The ADD Fund is set to hold its next grant application hearing in late May 2024 in Fargo, inviting more projects to contribute to the sustainable growth and diversification of North Dakota's agriculture.

This continued support for agricultural projects emphasizes the state's dedication to fostering a thriving, sustainable agricultural ecosystem that benefits the local economy and food supply chain.

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