MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The Alabama Department of Agriculture & Industries (ADAI) is encouraging eligible meat processors across the state to take advantage of a new funding opportunity through the USDA Rural Development’s Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program – Phase 4 (MPPEP 4).
The program provides $60 million in grant funding to support beef-focused processing facilities and strengthen local and regional supply chains. Funding is intended to help processors expand capacity, improve efficiency and increase competitiveness within the American beef industry.
“Alabama’s meat processors play a vital role in supporting our cattle producers and ensuring consumers have access to high-quality beef products,” said Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Commissioner Rick Pate. “This program provides a valuable opportunity for processors to invest in their operations, expand capacity and strengthen Alabama’s agricultural economy. We encourage all eligible facilities to explore this highly competitive funding opportunity and apply.”
The application period is currently open and will close on August 7, 2026, at 10:59 p.m. Central Time. Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov using Funding Opportunity Number RD RBS 26 04 or by searching for “Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program – Phase 4.”
Grant funding is divided equally between two categories: Very Small and Small Processors and Intermediate Processors. Each category will be evaluated through its own competitive review process.
Two grant options are available:
Processing Expansion Projects
- Award amounts ranging from $50,000 to $2 million.
- Eligible expenses include equipment purchases exceeding $250,000, facility upgrades, renovations and retrofits.
- Requires a 50 percent share from the applicant.
Simplified Equipment-Only Projects
- Award amounts ranging from $10,000 to $250,000.
- Covers equipment costs only and excludes labor, installation and related expenses.
- Requires a 25 percent cost share from the applicant.
Eligible applicants must primarily process cattle and have been operating for at least one year. Applicants may include for-profit businesses, nonprofit organizations, producer-owned cooperatives, Tribes and tribal entities.
The program offers processors the opportunity to purchase new equipment, improve facilities, increase processing capacity and enhance operational efficiency while strengthening local supply chains and supporting economic growth in rural communities.
Processors interested in applying should:
- Assess their operational needs and determine the appropriate project category.
- Secure required matching funds.
- Prepare application materials, including project narratives, financial documents and cost-share verification.
Additional information about the program can be found at www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/business-programs/meat-and-poultry-processing-expansion-program-phase-4