ALBANY, NY. — New York introduced its first-ever statewide grant program for meat processing, with initial funding totaling $5 million. The Meat Processing Expansion Grant Program works to establish new meat processing facilities or expand existing facilities in New York. The program is intended to improve the availability of affordable protein sources in the state.

“Over the last few years, we have been doubling down on our efforts to strengthen New York’s food processing facilities to help our local producers expand to new markets and keep our grocery stores stocked with fresh, healthy New York foods,” said New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard A. Ball. “This funding will directly support our meat industry, which has continued to struggle with capacity following the pandemic. I encourage all New York processors who are eligible to apply for this grant opportunity that will help grow their business, stabilize the industry, and increase consumers’ access to high quality, locally sourced meat.”

The new grant program is funded by the New York State Department of Agriculture and administered by the Hudson Valley AgriBusiness Development Corp. (HVADC).

Capital projects are eligible for reimbursement between $50,000 to $250,000. Grants less than $100,000 require a 10% recipient match, and those over $100,000 require a 20% recipient match.

HVADC is accepting applications through June 21.