SAINT PAUL, MINN. — The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) announced a new grant opportunity to help local schools start up or improve butchery training programs. The Meat Education and Training (MEAT) Grant Program is providing $350,000 in funding to secondary career and technical education programs.

“The past few years have clearly shown that expanded meat processing capacity is important for the health of Minnesota’s livestock industry and to give consumers more choices,” said Thom Petersen, Minnesota agriculture commissioner. “To get there, we need more butchers and meat cutters. This investment will expose students to these in-demand positions.”

The grants will help fund equipment, facility renovation, curriculum development and faculty training, among other enhancements.

Applicants can request any amount between $5,000 and $70,000 per project, and up to 10% of each grant may be used for faculty training. Applications are due March 9, 2023.

MDA said the MEAT grants will be awarded through a competitive review process, with priority given to applicants that collaborate with meat cutting and butchery programs at Minnesota State Colleges and Universities and/or local industry partners. MDA expects to award up to 10 grants.