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VAPG (Value-Added Producer Grant)Grant

Rural Development · California

Program Overview

Grants for farmers creating value-added products — farm-to-table, artisan cheese, craft meats, specialty jams, agritourism, etc.

Program Details
Planning: up to $75,000; Working Capital: up to $250,000 (requires 1:1 match)
Annual, typically spring (check grants.gov)
grants.gov or USDA Rural Development state office
Very High — requires business plan, market research, feasibility study, budget, 3 letters of support
Required Documents
  • Schedule F (farm income)
  • Business plan
  • Market research
  • Feasibility study (if >$50K)
  • Matching funds documentation
Forms
  • SF-424
  • SF-424A
  • Full narrative application (60-100 hours to prepare)
Priority Advantages

The following groups may receive priority consideration for this program:

Pro Tip: If you're turning raw products into something with higher value (cheese, jerky, wine, flour, etc.) this grant can fund your launch. Requires matching funds.
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Your Local Rural Development Office
NRCS Livermore Local Partnership Office
3585 Greenville Rd Suite 2, Livermore, CA 94550-6707
(925) 453-3866
NRCS Jackson Lpo
12200-B Airport Road, Jackson, CA 95642-2330
(209) 714-8045
Find more offices in California →
Frequently Asked Questions

Who may qualify for VAPG in California?

Grants for farmers creating value-added products — farm-to-table, artisan cheese, craft meats, specialty jams, agritourism, etc. Contact your local Rural Development office in California for specific eligibility requirements.

How much does VAPG pay?

Value range: Planning: up to $75,000; Working Capital: up to $250,000 (requires 1:1 match). Actual amounts depend on your specific situation, crops, and acreage.

When is the VAPG deadline?

Annual, typically spring (check grants.gov). Contact your local Rural Development office for the most current dates.

How do I apply for VAPG in California?

Apply at grants.gov or USDA Rural Development state office. Required forms: SF-424, SF-424A, Full narrative application (60-100 hours to prepare).

Related Programs in California
REAP (Rural Energy for America Program)Grant
Rural Development · Quarterly application windows
SARE Farmer/Rancher GrantGrant
NIFA (via SARE regions) · Varies by region, typically fall or winter
Specialty Crop Block GrantGrant
AMS · Varies by state — check your state department of agriculture
FMPP (Farmers Market Promotion Program)Grant
AMS · Annual, typically spring (check ams.usda.gov)
Beginning Farmer & Rancher Development ProgramGrant
NIFA · Varies
Learn More at USDA →

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Program information sourced from USDA. Eligibility described here is general guidance only. Confirm at your local FSA or NRCS office. FarmGrant is not affiliated with USDA.