By Jamie Martin
The U.S. Department of Agriculture is providing $11.5 million to 13 projects in Iowa to support rural economic development, expand manufacturing, promote value-added agriculture, and increase renewable fuel use.
“Iowa is a manufacturing powerhouse, and USDA is an integral partner in supporting business access to capital and industrial services,” said U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Iowa State Director Mike Sexton.
“President Donald J. Trump believes in rural America, and by expanding financing options through local co-ops and delivering entrepreneurial opportunities, USDA is moving that vison forward by helping Iowans prosper,” said Sexton.
Iowa State University’s AgMRC received $1.4 million to provide producers and processors with resources and guidance for value-added agricultural businesses. The AgMRC website and events also help applicants for federal grants.
Through the Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant program, six loans totaling $5.95 million will support manufacturing expansion and job creation:
- Kinetic Technologies LLC in Algona: $952,000, 8 new jobs.
- Continental Manufacturing Chemist Inc. in Huxley: $1 million, 100 new jobs.
- TSM Holding LLC/M3 Fabrication LLC in Bloomfield: $1 million, 10 jobs.
- A to Z Drying Inc. in Osage: $2 million combined, 19 jobs.
- Hemp Agra LLC in Rock Valley: $1 million, 20 jobs.
Six grants totaling $4.17 million under the Higher Blends Infrastructure and Incentive Program will improve renewable fuel sales. Projects include installing E15, E85, and B20 dispensers and fuel storage at multiple stations. Molo Petroleum LLC will install 30 E15 dispensers at seven sites, boosting biofuel sales by 2.78 million gallons annually.
These USDA programs provide financial assistance, technical guidance, and infrastructure support to rural businesses and energy facilities. The investments help local communities grow, create jobs, and strengthen rural economies.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National