Lamp beginning and socially disadvantaged farmers or ranchers – mandatory

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Rural Business Cooperative Services awarded a $249,976 Project Grant to E And C Farms LLC, a for-profit limited liability company located in Meadville, Missouri. The grant is funded through the Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Program (CFDA 10.175), which supports the development, coordination, and expansion of local and regional food systems.

The grant will support E And C Farms LLC in enhancing direct and indirect producer-to-consumer marketing channels, increasing access to locally produced agricultural products, and supporting the growth of small and mid-sized agricultural businesses. Specific project activities may include market development, processing, distribution, marketing strategies, value-added product creation, and food safety improvements for local food producers and markets. The grant period runs from Aug 28, 2024 to Aug 28, 2026.