Three farms in our area are getting a helping hand thanks to the Choose Iowa Value-Added Grant program, which supports farmers and small businesses that promote locally grown, raised, and produced food and agricultural products. Farm products made right here in Iowa.
- East to West Farm in Columbus Junction was awarded $10,468 to build new storage space and set up a small shop right on their farm. This will help them sell more of their meat and eggs directly to customers.
- Mogo Farms in Mt. Pleasant is getting $25,000 to put up a new building where they can wash and package their fruits and vegetables. This will help their produce stay fresher longer and meet higher food safety standards.
- Wild Spirits Farm in Fairfield received $13,400 to renovate an old cabin and turn it into a cozy community space for farm events and activities.
In total, 33 projects across Iowa got a share of $463,000 in grant money this year, helping cover more than $1.3 million in project costs.
The goal is to keep growing Iowa’s local food scene and give farmers more ways to connect with their communities.
