The North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner announced the recipients of $2,998,250 in grants from the Agriculture Diversification and Development (ADD) Fund. These awards will support seven projects that aim to create jobs, enhance profitability for farmers and ranchers, and grow the state's economy.
The ADD Fund supports new and expanding value-added agriculture businesses. Eligible projects include those related to food production and processing, animal production, and more.
Here are the recipients and their awarded amounts:
• North American Bison, LLC: $500,000 for safety and biosecurity improvements at their New Rockford bison processing facility.
• Rock Valley Feeders, LLP: $500,000 to expand their existing beef feedlot to accommodate bison.
• Homeland Hempcrete: $148,250 to scale up their operation and reduce manual input through equipment upgrades.
• Giant Snacks, Inc.: $500,000 to purchase automated palletizing equipment and a conveying system.
• Epitome Energy, LLC: $500,000 to assist with the construction of a new soybean crush facility near Grand Forks.
• Northern Lights Dairy: $350,000 to purchase milk hauling equipment.
• Billie's Soap: $500,000 to purchase equipment and renovate their building.
The ADD Fund will hold its next grant application hearing on February 28, 2024, in Bismarck. Applications for the February meeting must be received by January 1, 2024.
These projects represent a significant investment in the future of North Dakota's agricultural industry. By supporting these innovative businesses, the state is helping to create jobs, boost the economy, and ensure the long-term success of its agricultural sector.
For additional information, please visit https://www.ndda.nd.gov/add.
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Categories: North Dakota, Government & Policy