Eligible Project Cost Types

Feasibility studies, market analysis, site or location analysis, appraisals, architectural or design assistance, training, and other project planning or contractual services. Predevelopment costs are not eligible for Production projects.

Building, renovating, or expanding a facility, including permanently installed fixtures. Applicants must show legal authority to use and improve the site, such as ownership, landlord authorization, a shared-use agreement, or Tribal land authorization.

One-time purchases of large, durable assets, such as refrigerated vehicles, tractors, trailers, walk-in coolers or freezers, machinery, equipment, hardware, or existing business assets. This category does not include facility construction or renovation. An asset installed or kept on property the applicant does not own requires signed owner or landlord authorization.

Smaller project-related purchases and supplies, such as agricultural tools, seeds, compost, soil amendments, carts, baskets, shelving, food-safety supplies, crates, delivery containers, and one-time inventory.

Packaging and labeling for eligible value-added packaged foods, such as jars, bottles, bags, lids, labels, food-safe packaging, and seals. Ingredients and materials may be eligible for test batches, initial production, or a one-time expansion. Ongoing ingredient purchases are not eligible. Put professional product-development services under Other Soft Costs.

One-time professional and project-support services, including training, community engagement, consulting, project management, marketing, design, food-safety planning, product development services, testing, and impact assessment. Necessary project-related software subscriptions may be considered for the grant period. Operating or staff costs directly tied to project implementation cannot exceed 20% of the total project budget.

Testing, designing, or developing climate-smart agricultural inputs, products, or technologies that directly support regenerative production, soil health, water conservation, agricultural efficiency, or long-term sustainability.