Iowa Farms, Businesses Receive Choose Iowa Grants

Be the first to know! Sign up for the free newsletter and unlock exclusive updates, breaking news, and tips from around the community. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced Monday that 30 farmers, small businesses and organizations across the state have received funding through the Choose Iowa Value-Added Grants Program, administered by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. The grants were awarded in Slater on the final day of Iowa Ag Week, a statewide event recognizing farmers and agricultural communities. The program provides up to $25,000 in cost-share funding per recipient to increase production and availability of Iowa-grown food, beverages and other agricultural products. The funding is part of the Choose Iowa initiative, which aims to expand local food production and strengthen rural economies by creating additional market opportunities. "Consumers increasingly want more local food and beverages, and that's great news for Iowa farmers," Naig said in a news release from the department. "By investing alongside these businesses, we are helping meet growing consumer demand while creating economic opportunities in communities across the state." In total, $500,000 was distributed to 30 recipients statewide, with 10 receiving the maximum $25,000 award. Recipients of the top awards include: Iowa Food Hub, Decorah Jefferson County Ciderworks, Fairfield Mundo Lindo Farm, Fairfield Yoder Family Farms Pork, Lone Tree Enchanted Evergreens, Newton EcoPrime, Osage Home Kneads, Slater Kittleson Bros., Ansgar Minerva's Meadow, State Center WW Homestead Dairy, Waukon Since its launch in 2022, the Choose Iowa Value-Added Grant Program has awarded more than $2.14 million to 130 farmers, businesses and organizations statewide. Your inbox, upgraded! Subscribe for free and enjoy handpicked stories, helpful advice, and local insights delivered weekly.