WASHINGTON, DC – USDA plans to invest more than $57 million in small and medium-sized meat processors, aiming to expand local processing capacity and give cattle producers more marketing options.
The department says $57.4 million is expected to support 147 tentative awards across 40 states through the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program. The funding remains subject to congressional allotment.
USDA says the grants can help independent processors expand capacity, strengthen competition and improve supply-chain resilience. Eligible recipients include private businesses, cooperatives, nonprofits, tribes and state or local government entities.
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins says additional local processing capacity is part of USDA’s effort to strengthen livestock markets and support rebuilding of the U.S. cattle herd. USDA has already invested more than $200 million through the program.
The department says expanded independent processing could give ranchers additional outlets for cattle while reducing reliance on a smaller number of larger processors.
Farm-Level Takeaway: More independent processing capacity could give cattle producers additional marketing options and strengthen local competition.