DECEMBER 25, 2005

ISSUE 1095


VALUE-ADDED GRANTS AVAILABLE

The Rural Business-Cooperative Service announced Wednesday (December 21) the availability of approximately $19.475 million in competitive grant
funds for fiscal year 2006 to help independent agricultural producers enter into value-added activities.

You may obtain application guides and materials for grants at www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/coops/vadg.htm or by contacting your USDA Rural Development State Office. To reach the Florida office, call (352) 338-3402.

Details and application deadlines are also posted in the Resource Library section at www.ffva.com.