COLUMBUS, OHIO — The Ohio Departments of Development and Agriculture announced a new round of funding for the Ohio Meat Processing Grant Program, totaling $14 million to help improve and expand the state’s meat processing services.

“By continuing to invest in Ohio’s meat processing industry, we’re empowering our local businesses, supporting local jobs and ensuring food security in our communities,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of Development. “From farm to table, we’re empowering this industry and ensuring that Ohioans have access to locally sourced, high-quality meats.”

Federal or state-registered meat harvesting or processing facilities in Ohio are eligible to apply for grants up to $500,000. Eligible costs include new and upgraded machinery, other equipment and technology products, and plant construction or expansion for confinement, processing and refrigeration.

The announcement marks the fourth round of funding for the program, which was created by the DeWine-Husted Administration with support from the Ohio General Assembly.

The first three rounds totaled nearly $28 million, awarding 128 grants to meat processors in 59 of Ohio’s 88 counties.