LINCOLN, NEB. — The Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) selected 76 meat processing facilities to receive grants from the Independent Processor Assistance Program (IPAP) on April 16.

The state agency said it would award more than $5.19 million from a portion of Nebraska’s share of American Rescue Plant Act federal funds to support projects that improve and expand Nebraska’s meat processing capacities. The grant funding was first announced in January.

“When meat processing facilities increase capacity, that can lead to increase in product development and marketing opportunities, which are good for Nebraska’s economy,” said Sherry Vinton, director of the NDA. “Increased capacity adds value to Nebraska’s meat products today and strengthens the meat processing industry for tomorrow. We’re pleased to be able to use this funding to invest in Nebraska communities with a passion for meat processing.”

NDA noted that of the 76 meat processing facilities awarded IPAP grants, 26 received these funds for the first time. Approximately $4.75 million was awarded in the first round of IPAP funding in September 2022. The 50 remaining awardees received funding in the first round and are receiving additional funding now.

Criteria for receiving the grant money included being an existing meat processor facilitating improvements, enhancements, or expansions to increase harvest capacity and/or product throughput. A meat processor must also operate either a USDA-FSIS facility or a federally regulated custom-exempt slaughter and processing facility.

Other requirements included existing sales revenue of less than $2.5 million and employing fewer than 25 people.