NC MarketReady

Value-Added Cost Share

Farmers markets are increasing in number throughout North Carolina, currently surpassing 130 unique markets. Consumers enjoy the opportunity to buy fresh, locally grown products directly from the farmers. Farmers markets support the local economy and encourage healthier meals that feature fresh fruits and vegetables. In addition to produce, many markets offer a wide variety of agricultural products including meat, honey, cut flowers, soaps, nursery plants, eggs, artisan cheese, baked goods and more.

Cooperative Extension Agents

Equipment Applications Due March 30.
Grant Writing and Feasibility Applications Due May 1.
Click here for applicant resources

Do you know of a value-added enterprise that might be a good candidate for the VAPG? While the grant application process might seem intimidating, the fall and summer cycles of the NCVACS program is designed to assist producers with the preparation of the VAPG.

Cost share funding can be used to help pay qualified professionals, such as grant writers and feasibility analysts, to make the nationally offered VAPG application more competitive. 

The spring funding cycle is designed to assist producers with equipment purchases that are not funded through the VAPG. Please direct prospective VAPG and NCVACS candidates to the grant materials on this Web site.

Due to overlapping cost share cycles, always refer to the NCVACS Timeline for the most the up-to-date deadlines associated with each funding cycle.

Cost Share Introduction

• Grant Writing and Feasibility Cost Share
  • View the NCVACS Webinar to learn more about the USDA VAPG and the NCVACS. The webinar was hosted by Brittany Whitmire, NCVACS program coordinator, to familiarize agents with this new avenue of funding for value-added producers in North Carolina. This webinar focused on the fall funding cycle which is designated for grant writing and feasibility assessment and business plan development.

• Equipment Cost Share
  • Newsletter Announcement for Agent Use

Helpful Resources

• Successful VAPG projects
  The USDA has awarded almost 950 grants since the beginning of the VAPG program. This Web site features a few examples of successful projects from around the country.

Cooperative Extension Directory

Cooperative Extension Offices are located in every county.

Find Your Local Agents

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