The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) announced it will begin accepting applications for a grant program for small processors following approval by the Legislature for $3.6 million in funding.
The goal is to increase livestock and poultry processing access for small to midsize ranchers and help small processors sell direct-to-consumer, to restaurants and to other local buyers.
The WSDA Local Meat Processing Capacity Grants program will provide grants of up to $150,000 for small projects and fund large projects between $150,000 and $750,000. Eligible costs include equipment, facility improvements, planning and workforce development costs.
The deadline to apply for a small project grant is Feb. 28, while applicants for the large project grants have until March 7. Information about the WSDA Local Meat Processing Capacity Grants, including how to apply, can be found by visiting agr.wa.gov/grants.
