USDA’s investments strengthen American food and agriculture supply chains, lower food costs, and boost economic opportunities.
In a significant step towards bolstering American food and agriculture supply chains, President Biden and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack have announced a $196 million investment. This funding aims to strengthen markets for agricultural producers, create jobs, and reduce food costs. The investment comes as part of the inaugural meeting of the White House Council on Supply Chain Resilience, a crucial component of President Biden’s Bidenomics agenda. By enhancing supply chains critical to economic and national security, this initiative seeks to lower costs for American families and drive investment in the country.
Expanding Market Opportunities for Producers and Entrepreneurs
The USDA’s investment will support 185 projects across 37 states and Puerto Rico, creating new and improved market opportunities for producers and entrepreneurs. This funding will benefit a range of industries, from bakery businesses to hydroponic farms, and aims to strengthen local and regional food systems while increasing competition in the market.
Lone Star Bakery: Modernizing Facilities to Meet Growing Demand
One example of the USDA’s investment impact is Lone Star Bakery in Texas, a third-generation family-owned business. With a $40 million Food Supply Chain Guaranteed Loan, Lone Star Bakery plans to purchase new equipment, make property improvements, upgrade technology, and refinance. These enhancements will enable the company to meet the needs of its current and future customers, which include multinational food service providers and grocery store chains.
Merchant’s Garden LLC: Expanding Sales of Organic Leafy Greens
Merchant’s Garden LLC, a hydroponic and aquaponic farm in Arizona, will utilize a $250,000 Value-Added Producer Grant to expand marketing and sales of prepackaged salad mixes. The grant will help the company become a local supplier of organic leafy greens for southern Arizona, contributing to the growth of the organic food market and promoting sustainable farming practices.
Lot 279, LLC: Increasing Revenue and Customer Base
In Nebraska, Lot 279, LLC, a direct-to-consumer beef producer, will use a Value-Added Producer Grant to process, market, distribute, and advertise their beef cattle cuts and shares. This project is expected to increase revenue by nearly $600,000 per year and expand the customer base by 4,800 people. Such investments empower small businesses to scale up their operations and meet the growing demand for high-quality, locally sourced products.
Center for EcoTechnology Inc.: Decarbonizing Farmwork in Massachusetts
The Center for EcoTechnology Inc. in Massachusetts will receive a $24,355 Rural Business Development Grant to support small farmers in decarbonizing their farmwork. This grant will provide outreach, technical assistance, training, and education to farmers across the Berkshire region. By adopting climate-smart practices, these farmers will contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural sector, benefiting both the local community and the planet.
Conclusion:
The USDA’s investment of $196 million in agricultural producers and rural entrepreneurs marks a significant step towards strengthening American food and agriculture supply chains. By expanding market opportunities, lowering food costs, and supporting economic growth, this initiative aligns with President Biden’s vision for a resilient and competitive economy. Through targeted funding programs, the USDA is empowering businesses across the country to thrive, while promoting sustainable practices and ensuring a more secure and diverse food supply chain for all Americans.
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