Cooperative Development Funding Now Available Through MDA

Cooperative Development Funding Now Available Through MDA Main Photo

21 Feb 2024


Economic Development, Community, News, Agriculture

A new Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) grant program is offering funding to support the development of agricultural cooperatives in the state.

The Cooperative Development Grant Program is now accepting applications from new cooperatives looking to finance business development strategies that will aid in the successful production, processing, or marketing of agricultural commodities, products, or services produced in Minnesota. The program was created through legislation passed during the 2023 Minnesota legislative session.

“Farmer-owned cooperatives are a critical advocate for and supporter of Minnesota agriculture,” said Minnesota Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen. “Through this new funding, the MDA is now able to help further strengthen the agricultural cooperative network across our state and expand opportunities for locally produced commodities, products, and services.”

Read the full article here.