Talking that Alabama Meat Money

With your Southeast Regional Ag News, I am Haylie Shipp. This is the Ag Information Network.

The Alabama Agricultural Development Authority has opened applications for a second round under the Alabama Meat Processing Program. This program is a result of a $15 million award from the USDA.

The low interest loans are intended to support meat and poultry slaughter and processing businesses in Alabama. Loans can be used to purchase or construct new facilities, expand existing facilities, purchase new equipment, cover start-up costs and hire additional employees.

“We were encouraged by the interest and complexity of the projects in round one. I look forward to the results from Phase II,” said Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate. “I continue to encourage business owners who are currently engaged in or thinking of starting to process meat to apply.”

The mission for the program is to expand opportunities for Alabama’s meat producers to improve the marketing of their products. It will also boost Alabama’s rural economy by financing small business owners who want to expand or start a slaughter or processing facility.

Some of the original $15 million allocation has been committed. Applications for the remaining funds will be accepted until June 14, 2024.