BI grants - rcdg discretionary value-added agricultural prod MKT dvlp

JSM Organics, Inc. received a $250,000 Project Grant awarded on August 26, 2025, from the Rural Business Cooperative Services through the Value-Added Producer Grants (VAPG) program (CFDA 10.352). The award supports the development and expansion of value-added agricultural product processing and marketing activities at the company's organic farm operation in Aromas, California, through August 26, 2027. As a minority-owned and small disadvantaged business specializing in organic produce, JSM Organics will utilize grant funds to enhance its business infrastructure, develop market strategies, and create working capital for processing and marketing organic fruits, vegetables, and specialty agricultural products such as jams.

The VAPG program provides competitive funding to eligible agricultural producers and producer-based businesses to support feasibility studies, business planning, and operational expenses associated with transforming raw agricultural commodities into higher-value processed goods. Under this award, JSM Organics will advance its capacity to generate new products, create and expand marketing opportunities, and increase producer income through value-added initiatives. Grant funds are restricted to processing and marketing activities and cannot be applied to agricultural production, construction, real property purchases, or fixed equipment and vehicle acquisitions.