By Blake Jackson
The Kentucky Agricultural Development Board (KADB) approved more than $1.54 million in funding for agricultural diversification and rural development initiatives during its monthly meeting on Friday.
The investments are intended to support farm growth, strengthen rural economies, and create new opportunities for agricultural producers across Kentucky.
“The projects approved today are investments in the future of Kentucky agriculture,” Agriculture Commissioner and Board Chair Jonathan Shell said. “These projects will help producers diversify, strengthen their operations, and create new opportunities that keep our farm communities strong for generations to come.”
Among the projects approved, Carter County Fair Inc. received up to $30,000 in county funds to construct an open-air pole barn at its fairgrounds. Kanbol, Inc. was approved for up to $577,250 in state funding through a participation loan to help expand its value-added processing facility.
In addition, Seedleaf, Inc. received up to $22,524 in county funding to relaunch its Compost Carpool program.
The board also approved funding through several county-level agricultural programs. Under the County Agricultural Incentives Program (CAIP), a total of $818,400 was allocated to projects in Clark, Hardin, Harlan, Laurel, Pike, Scott, and Shelby counties.
The program helps producers improve and diversify operations through cost-share assistance covering livestock, infrastructure, technology, energy efficiency, marketing, and value-added production.
Additional support included $15,000 for the Deceased Farm Animal Removal (DAR) Program in Scott County and $16,000 for the Next Generation Farmer Program (NextGen), which assists agricultural producers between the ages of 18 and 40.
The board also approved $63,250 through the Youth Agricultural Incentives Program (YAIP) for projects in Harlan, Laurel, Scott, and Shelby counties, encouraging young people to explore opportunities in agriculture.
Application periods and deadlines for CAIP, NextGen, and YAIP will be announced locally. The funding package reflects Kentucky’s ongoing commitment to supporting agricultural innovation, rural development, and the long-term success of farm communities throughout the state.
For more information, contact Bill McCloskey at Kentucky Office of Agricultural Policy at (502) 382-6093 or email koap@ky.gov.
Photo Credit: kentucky-agricultural-board
Categories: Kentucky, Government & Policy