Ohio Giving $10M To Livestock, Poultry Farmers To Bolster Food Supply Chain

COLUMBUS, OH — The Ohio government is directing $10 million in grants to 40 Ohio livestock and poultry farmers to protect the state's food supply chain.

The grants will be used to expand capacity and meet the demand for meat processing services, Gov. Mike DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jon Husted said Wednesday. Each of the selected companies will receive approximately $250,000.

“The supply chain issues that our country is facing have put increased pressure on our meat processors, and they can't keep up with the demand," DeWine said in a statement. "By awarding this money, we can help these Ohio businesses enhance their operations to strengthen the local meat supply chain and reduce reliance on out-of-state processors."

DeWine's office estimated that the grant money would lead to the creation of up to 830 jobs.

The grants will be administered by the Ohio Department of Development, in collaboration with the Ohio Department of Agriculture. More than 140 Ohio companies applied for the grant program and companies were chosen on a first-come, first-serve basis.

“These grants will not only benefit consumers, but they will also help sustain these businesses and bring new job opportunities to Ohioans,” Husted said. “In addition to new jobs, this funding will help businesses retain 300 jobs and nearly $30 million in payroll.”

Here's which companies will be receiving grants through the program: