FACTS: MT Premium Processing Receives $50K Growth Through Agriculture Award

  • Who: MT Premium Processing Cooperative

  • What: Received a $50,000 grant

  • From: Montana Department of Agriculture’s Growth Through Agriculture (GTA) program

  • Where: Butte, Montana

  • When: Announced March 2024

  • Why it Matters: The funding supports expanding in-state meat processing capacity and offers opportunities for Montana’s independent livestock producers.

Key Points:

  • The funds will help MT Premium Processing purchase equipment to increase processing efficiency and throughput.

  • This move aims to reduce bottlenecks in Montana’s meat supply chain and support producer access to local markets.

  • Montana Farmers Union played a significant role in advocating for improved processing infrastructure in the state.

  • The GTA program is designed to strengthen and diversify Montana’s agricultural economy through grants and loans.

  • MT Premium Processing is a cooperatively owned facility serving local ranchers and farmers by offering value-added services.

Quote:
MFU President Walter Schweitzer stated, “Investments like these are critical to building a more resilient and locally focused food system in Montana.”