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Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG)

USDA Rural Business-Cooperative Service

Helps producers develop or expand value-added products — jams, cut-flower subscriptions, cider, salad mixes, CSA expansion, or a new processing venture.

Typical award
Planning grants up to $75,000; working capital grants up to $250,000
Deadline
Apr 15, 2026
Type of support
Funding / grants · Business & value-added products
Who can apply
Individual producer, Non-profit, Tribal, Beginning / underserved
Fits these operations
Value-added & food business, Mixed / diversified, Orchard & fruit, Vegetables & produce

Am I eligible?

  • Independent producer, farmer or rancher cooperative, or majority producer-owned business
  • Product must be produced by the applicant (not just resold)
  • Must demonstrate how value-added activity increases farm income

How to apply

  1. 1Choose planning or working-capital track
  2. 2Prepare business plan and budget for value-added project
  3. 3Submit through USDA Rural Development state office when RFA opens
  4. 4Complete environmental review and award negotiation

What you'll need

  • Business plan / feasibility study
  • Financial statements or tax records
  • Value-added product description and budget

Timeline & contact

RFA opens early spring; awards announced summer/fall
Get help: USDA Rural Development state office

Ready to apply?

Applications go through USDA Rural Business-Cooperative Service, not through this site. Open the official page below for eligibility rules, forms, and contacts. For federal programs it's worth calling your local USDA Service Center or Cooperative Extension office first — they help with paperwork for free and know what your county actually funds.

Open official page

This listing was last hand-checked August 2026.

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