The City Of Liberal encourages local producers to take advantage of Value-Added Producer Grants through USDA Rural Development.

Value-added products are created by increasing the consumer value of an agricultural commodity in the production or processing stage or through marketing techniques. Farm-based renewable energy projects are included.

Grants up to $100,000.00 may be used for planning activities. Grants up to $300,000.00 may be used for working capitol activities. Independant producers, farmer and rancher cooperatives, agricultural producer groups and minorit-controlled producer-based business ventures are eligible to apply. The application deadline is August 29, 2011.

For more information, call the City of Liberal Economic Development Department at 620-626-2256, or you may call the USDA Rural Development Office at 785-271-2700.