Disc value-added AG pmdg-BEG & SOC disadv farmers & ranchers

California Fruit And Produce Grower LLC received a $225,000 Project Grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Business Cooperative Services under the Rural Cooperative Development Grants program (CFDA 10.771) awarded September 15, 2025, with a completion date of September 15, 2027. This award supports the delivery of technical assistance services to rural agricultural producers and small businesses in California seeking to establish, expand, or improve cooperative enterprises and mutually owned business structures.

Under this grant, the recipient will provide cooperative development services including feasibility studies, business planning support, governance training, and operational assistance to eligible rural farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural stakeholders. The program aims to strengthen economic conditions in rural California by facilitating the formation and growth of value-added agricultural processing cooperatives and other cooperative business models that enhance market access and profitability for participating agricultural producers in underserved rural areas.