Minnesota milk, meat, or poultry processors can access financial support to provide a safe environment for employees and customers during the COVID-19 pandemic through a new cost-share program from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA).

USDA- and state-licensed processors located in Minnesota with fewer than 200 employees can apply by Dec. 4, 2020 for the Protect Our Milk, Meat, and Poultry Processors (POMMPP) Cost-Share program.

Expenses that may be eligible for reimbursement include equipment purchases related to complying with the MDA’s COVID-19 Health and Safety Guidelines for Food Processors and Manufacturers (pdf), costs associated with increased inspections or becoming inspected, and costs associated with consultations to develop COVID-19 operating plans.

Any expenses submitted for reimbursement must be incurred between March 2, 2020, and December 4, 2020. Reimbursement will be based on the number of applications received and the amount of funds available. Payments may be capped due to limited funding.

Expenses related to processing equipment are not eligible for reimbursement under this program. However, meat and poultry processors may be eligible for up to $5,000 through the Rapid Response for Livestock Processing Mini-Grant program, which is accepting applications through November 30, 2020.

Funding for the POMMPP program is available through funds granted to the state of Minnesota through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

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Media Contact Larry Schumacher, MDA Communications 651-201-6629 Larry.Schumacher@state.mn.us