The AGRI Livestock Investment Grant encourages long-term industry development for Minnesota livestock farmers and ranchers by helping them improve, update, and modernize their livestock operation infrastructure and equipment.

farmer using tablet computer near cows

Applicant eligibility

Applicants must:

  • Be the principal operator of a livestock operation in Minnesota that produces and sells at least $1,000 of livestock products annually or would normally sell at least $1,000 of livestock products in a typical year.
  • Be a resident of the state of Minnesota or be a business entity authorized to farm in Minnesota.
  • Hold an appropriate feedlot registration when applicable.

NOTE:  For this program, we define "livestock" as beef cattle, dairy cattle, swine, poultry, goats, mules, bison, sheep, horses, farmed cervids (deer, elk), ratites (flightless birds including emu), and llamas.

Project eligibility

This grant program reimburses investments in:

  • Buildings or facilities to produce livestock or livestock products.
  • Development of pasture for use by livestock, including but not limited to lanes, watering systems, and fences.
  • Equipment for livestock housing, confinement, feeding, and waste management.

Note: All project materials and services must be purchased and paid for after a grant contract agreement has been signed by all parties and has reached its start date. Any expenses incurred prior to that date aren't eligible for reimbursement.

The grant will not pay for livestock, tractors, skid steer loaders, general purpose buildings, pasture or crop land, animal feed, crop seed, planters, combines, or debt refinancing.

Amount available

  • We expect to award a total of $1.125 million in FY 2025.
  • We will reimburse 10% of the first $250,000 of an eligible investment.
  • For each project, the maximum grant amount available per fiscal year is $25,000.
  • An individual or farm may only receive one grant in FY 2025.
  • Only one grant per project.

Applying

Applications are due by 4 p.m. Central Time on Thursday, November 14, 2024.

  • Carefully read the full 2025 Request for Proposals (PDF) for eligibility, requirements, and priorities.
    • You can also view the list of past projects or request a copy of an application to help you prepare.
  • We encourage you to apply online.
    • If you are a new user, you will need to create an account.
    • Once you are logged in, select “AGRI Livestock Investment Grant.”

Contact us if you need this information in an alternative format.