We're no longer accepting applications for this year's program. Details on this page apply to the previous round of funding. The next application period opens in late summer of 2024.
The AGRI Livestock Investment Grant encourages long-term industry development for Minnesota livestock farmers and ranchers by helping them improve, update, and modernize their livestock operation infrastructure and equipment.
Reminder of fiscal year (FY) 2023 grant changes
We made two significant changes to the grant program in FY 2023.
- The Livestock Investment Grant statute was amended to eliminate the lifetime maximum of $50,000 that applied at individual and entity levels. Instead, the statute requires that the commissioner give preference to applicants who have not previously received a grant.
- All principal operators may apply for funds this round, regardless of whether they have received a grant in the past or not.
- Each farm may only submit one application.
- Only expenses incurred after the contract has been signed by all parties are eligible for reimbursement. We expect to have contracts to grantees by July 2024.
Applicant eligibility
Minnesota livestock farmers may apply. Applicants must:
- Be the principal operator of a livestock operation in Minnesota.
- Be a resident of the state of Minnesota or be a business entity authorized to farm in Minnesota.
- Hold an appropriate feedlot registration when applicable.
- Be in good standing with the State of Minnesota:
- No back taxes owed.
- No defaults on Minnesota state-backed financing for the last seven years.
- Acceptable performance on past MDA grants.
- Compliant with current state regulations or this project will support the organization becoming compliant.
NOTE: For this program, we define "livestock" as beef cattle, dairy cattle, swine, poultry, goats, mules, bison, sheep, horses, farmed cervids (deer, elk), ratites (flightless birds including emu), and llamas.
Project eligibility
This grant program reimburses investments in:
- Buildings or facilities to produce livestock or livestock products.
- Development of pasture for use by livestock, including but not limited to lanes, watering systems, and fences.
- Equipment for livestock housing, confinement, feeding, and waste management.
All project materials and services must be purchased and paid for after a grant contract agreement has been signed by all parties and has reached its start date. Any expenses incurred prior to that date aren't eligible for reimbursement.
The grant will not pay for livestock, tractors, skid steer loaders, general purpose buildings, pasture or crop land, animal feed, crop seed, planters, combines, or debt refinancing.
Amount available
- We expect to award a total of $650,000 in the FY 2024 spring round.
- We will reimburse 10% of the first $250,000 of an eligible investment.
- For each project, the maximum grant amount available per fiscal year is $25,000.
- An individual or farm may only receive one grant in FY 2024.
- Only one grant per project.
Applying
The application period for this grant has ended. We expect the next application period to begin in late summer of 2024; check back for updated program materials.
To learn more about the program and start planning for next year, read last year's Request for Proposals (RFP) (PDF). This grant program is subject to change so you should read the updated RFP when it's posted. You can also view our list of past projects and request a copy of an application to help you prepare. Contact us if you need this information in an alternative format.
