FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact: Jenny Green
Communications Specialist
jgreen@nmda.nmsu.edu, 575-202-4249

June 24, 2025

Starting July 1: Up to $3M available for NM meat processors

Workshop set for June 25 ahead of July 31 proposal deadline

LAS CRUCES, N.M. – The New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) will open applications July 1 for its FY26 New Mexico Local Meat Processing Grant (LMPG), offering up to $3 million to support meat processors across the state.

A virtual workshop will be held Wednesday, June 25 at noon to help potential applicants understand the program. Registration is required in advance. After registering, participants will receive a confirmation email with meeting details.

If unable to attend, applicants may request a one-on-one meeting by emailing nfrazzini@nmda.nmsu.edu by June 27, including a preferred date and time.

Two raw ribeye steaks on a black plate, with chopped herbs, tomatoes, peppers, salt, and pepper in the background on a prep station. — The New Mexico Department of Agriculture will open applications July 1 for its FY26 New Mexico Local Meat Processing Grant, offering up to $3 million to support independent meat processors across the state. A virtual workshop will be held Wednesday, June 25 at noon to help potential applicants understand the program. (Photo courtesy New Mexico Department of Agriculture)

“New Mexico livestock producers need access to reliable, local processing options,” said New Mexico Secretary of Agriculture Jeff Witte. “This funding helps strengthen local food systems, create economic opportunities and improve meat processing capacity across the state.”

Established during the 2025 legislative session, the grant helps processors adopt new technologies and improve systems for meat byproduct disposal. Funds support a wide range of activities, including equipment purchases, facility upgrades, regulatory compliance, value-added processing, and supply chain improvements. There is no match requirement, and funds must be used by July 2029.

Cattle feeding at a trough, with one calf looking toward the camera and others eating grain. — The New Mexico Department of Agriculture will open applications July 1 for its FY26 New Mexico Local Meat Processing Grant, offering up to $3 million to support independent meat processors across the state. A virtual workshop will be held Wednesday, June 25 at noon to help potential applicants understand the program. (Photo courtesy New Mexico Department of Agriculture)

Before applying, processors should evaluate their eligibility, planned expenses, timelines, partnerships and other key factors to ensure a strong proposal.

Questions can be directed to NMDA Marketing Specialist Nick Frazzini at nfrazzini@nmda.nmsu.edu. Visit the Local Meat Processing Grant website for additional information. To apply starting July 1, visit NMDA’s grant platform. The grant proposal deadline is July 31, 2025.

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Starting July 1: Up to $3M available for NM meat processors