By Scout Nelson
Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring has announced that eight agricultural projects received funding through the Agriculture Diversification and Development (ADD) Fund. The awards totaled $1.33 million and were approved during the ADD quarterly meeting held May 27 in Bottineau.
The ADD Fund is administered by the North Dakota Department of Agriculture. The program was created to support new and expanding value-added agriculture businesses that demonstrate financial viability, improve industry profitability, create jobs, and contribute to economic growth across North Dakota.
Eligible projects include agricultural product manufacturing, animal production facilities, commodity processing operations, food production and processing facilities, and certain feed and pet food processing projects.
Several businesses and agricultural operations received support through the latest round of funding. Abbiamo Pasta Company received $350,000 to purchase equipment for a new pasta manufacturing line. Dakota SAO II, LLP received $250,000 to assist with the construction of sow farm facilities.
P-3 Livestock received $233,000 to help build a hoop barn and expand beef cattle backgrounding and finishing capacity. Markar Inc., operating as Sandy’s Donuts & Coffee Shop, received $200,000 to purchase equipment and support construction of a new production facility.
Gulleson Farm and Ranch LLP received $100,000 to help construct a cattle barn that will expand feeding and finishing operations. Kirby and Heidi Steichen also received $100,000 to build a hoop barn and increase beef cattle backgrounding and finishing capacity.
Additional funding recipients included Jack McCrory, who received $75,000 for facility upgrades and construction improvements that support cattle feeding and animal processing operations. Rocking H Enterprises LLP received $25,800 to improve and expand cattle feeding activities.
The ADD Fund continues to encourage investment in agricultural businesses that strengthen local economies and create opportunities throughout the state. Through support for manufacturing, livestock production, and food processing projects, the program helps promote long-term growth in North Dakota agriculture.
Applications for the next ADD Fund meeting must be submitted by July 1, 2026. Additional information is available through the North Dakota Department of Agriculture.
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Categories: North Dakota, Government & Policy