3/31/2025

UPPER MICHIGAN - Grants to 51 projects in the state have been awarded by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. Three projects in the U.P. have been included in those Underserved, Value-Added, and Regional Food System grants. The grants are state funded and will not be affected by federal cuts. The grants will help create 146 full-time and 203 part time jobs across the state. Rainbow Packing Inc. in Escanaba will receive $100,000 to update and expand processing capabilities. The $20,000 received by the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community in Baraga will help develop a food code that will establish food safety standards that incorporate culturally relevant food practices, and The Willis Family Maple Farm in Iron River will use it’s $100,000 grant to expand and modernize its sugaring operation, enabling the farm to meet increased market demand. The application process for the Underserved, Value-Added and Regional Food Systems grants for fiscal Year 2025 will be announced in April.