The Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority (MASBDA) has opened applications for two distinct grant programs designed to enhance the value of agricultural products and bolster rural economies across Missouri. Businesses and producers can apply for individual awards of up to $200,000 through these competitive programs.
One initiative, the Value-Added Agriculture Grant, provides financial support for critical business planning activities. Eligible uses for these funds include conducting feasibility studies, developing comprehensive marketing and business plans, and securing necessary legal assistance for agricultural ventures. This grant supports efforts to refine and commercialize Missouri's diverse agricultural output.
The second program, the Missouri Value-Added Agriculture "Farm to Table" Grant, focuses on direct connections between local producers and institutional buyers. This funding assists Missouri small businesses and agricultural producers with purchasing resources essential for processing locally grown agricultural products. The processed goods are intended for use in schools and other institutions within the state, creating a more direct supply chain.
Missouri Department of Agriculture Director Chris Chinn emphasized the potential impact of these opportunities. Chinn stated that these grants offer a "great way to expand our already diverse and vibrant agriculture industry," aiming to help farms and agribusinesses grow their operations and generate additional revenue. The programs are funded through contributions made to MASBDA via the purchase of tax credits.
Both grants will be awarded based on a competitive scoring system. Applications will be evaluated on several key factors, including their potential for economic development within the agriculture industry, overall credibility and merit, and the probability of achieving near-term commercialization. Evaluators will also consider the practical application of project results, the source and level of any matching funds proposed by applicants, and the geographic scope of the project's economic impact.
MASBDA highlighted examples of past successful projects. Previous Value-Added Agriculture Grants have funded feasibility studies, marketing plans, and business plans for a range of products, including elderberry, soybean processing, biofuel, wood pellets, and dairy. Similarly, past "Farm to Table" grants have supported the purchase of equipment for meat processing intended for institutional sales, as well as professional services to assist in preparing produce for sale to schools and institutions.
Interested applicants must submit their materials to MASBDA no later than 3 p.m. on December 15, 2026. MASBDA has stated that incomplete applications will not be accepted. Detailed program guidelines and additional information are available through the MASBDA website, by email, or by calling (573) 751-2129.