By The Chronicle Staff

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently announced the new Small Processors Action Plan and opened applications for the latest round of the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program (MPPEP), providing $60 million in support and funding opportunities for small and mid-sized meat processors across the country.

“Ohio is home to a diverse livestock industry and a network of local and regional meat processors that help connect Ohio livestock producers and consumers,” said Jack Irvin, vice president of public policy for Ohio Farm Bureau.

“These improvements and funding will help reduce barriers, provide more marketing opportunities and create greater flexibility for farmers and communities looking for local processing options.”

The announcements are part of USDA’s Plan to Fortify the American Beef Industry, an effort to strengthen domestic processing capacity, improve supply chain resilience and expand market opportunities for livestock farmers.

The new Small Processors Action Plan is designed to improve how small and very small meat and poultry processors interact with USDA.

According to the agency, small processors make up the majority of federally inspected meat and poultry establishments, and the plan aims to reduce administrative burdens, improve service and maintain food safety standards.

Key actions of the Small Processors Action Plan include the creation of easier pathways for appeal and requests, expanded technical assistance and coordination of federal resources for small businesses and clearer regulatory guidance.

USDA will begin implementing the changes immediately and continue working with processors to identify additional improvements.

Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program

Alongside the action plan, USDA is making $60 million available through the fourth round of the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program.

MPPEP is designed to help processors expand capacity, modernize facilities and purchase equipment needed to improve business. The primary purpose of MPPEP Phase 4 is to support the American beef industry by diversifying the meat and poultry supply chain and opening local market opportunities.

Eligible applications include for-profit organizations, nonprofit organizations, producer-owned cooperatives, tribes, and tribal entities.

Applicants must be independently and domestically owned, have operated in primary cattle processing for at least one year and maintain USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service Inspection or an equivalent state inspection program.

The funding is available in two categories:

Processing Expansion Projects: Awards ranging from $50,000 to $2 million with a 50 percent cost share. May be used for training, market expansion, safety upgrades, and waste management improvements.

Equipment-Only Projects: Awards ranging from $10,000 to $250,000 with a 25 percent cost share.

Applications for the MPPEP are open through Aug. 7 and must be submitted through grants.gov. Additional information, application materials and program guidance are also available through USDA Rural Development’s Meat and Poultry Expansion Program website.

To schedule a program overview, applicants can also contact Ohio program staff at 614-255-2400 or email [email protected]. ■