USDA AWARDS $10 MILLION FOR AGRICULTURAL INNOVATION CENTERS
Innovation Centers In 10 States To Assist With Value-Added Agriculture Ventures

WASHINGTON, Sept. 26, 2003 -- Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman today announced $10 million in grants to establish agricultural innovation centers in 10 states. The centers are part of the Bush Administration’s ongoing effort to assist rural businesses, farmers and ranchers in developing value-added businesses through greater utilization of production agriculture commodities.

“The innovation centers will help farmers, ranchers and rural businesses develop and expand value-added ventures,” said Veneman. “These investments will create jobs and improve economic opportunities for rural families.”

The 2002 Farm Bill created the program to provide technical and business development assistance to increase and improve the ability of agricultural producers to develop markets and processes for value-added agricultural commodities and products. Funding of individual recipients will be contingent upon meeting the conditions of the grant agreement.

Applications were selected on a competitive basis. Those selected demonstrated a track record of achieving value-added successes, experienced personnel, developed a strong work plan, with an emphasis on utilizing non-Federal funding and a commitment to measuring performance of the value-added activities.

The following is a list of the recipients selected for funding:

"These centers will give rural businesses, farmers and ranchers a new resource to help them create new markets for their commodities," said Agricultural Under Secretary for Rural Development Thomas C. Dorr.

Since 2001, the Bush Administration has invested nearly $100 million toward expanding value-added ventures, including the establishing in 2001 of a $5 million agricultural marketing resource center. The center serves as an electronic resource center and clearinghouse for value-added related information. The center’s website is http://www.agmrc.org/

USDA Rural Development's mission is to deliver programs in a way that will support increasing economic opportunity and improve the quality of life of rural residents. As a venture capital entity, Rural Development provides equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure. Further information on rural programs is available at a local USDA Rural Development office or by visiting USDA's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov .

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