**This is a Value Added Producer Grant (VAPG) template for a FY2008
[Working Capital]{.underline} grant. (**There is a different template
for Planning grants!) It was developed by USDA Rural Development-Oregon
as **[a template to help Oregonians]{.underline}** prepare a complete
Value-Added Producer Grant application. It is consistent with the
national template found on national USDA website, but it includes
additional detail and guidance. The official national rules & guidance
for the VAPG program can be obtained on-line at:
<http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/coops/vadg.htm>

We also recommend you visit RD-Oregon's VAPG web site. It is intended to
provide additional resources and assistance to Oregonians:

<http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/or/vapg.htm>

[INSTRUCTIONS FOR USING THIS TEMPLATE]{.underline}:

To use the template, simply complete each of the blank fields with the
appropriate information. Page breaks and section divisions are built-in
where appropriate.

For consistency and speed, you may use the "Edit/Replace" command to
fill in the following fields throughout the application template:

**«Applicant»** for applicant name

**«Title»** for VAPG project title

**"vapg\$»** for VAPG grant amount requested

**«total\$»** for total project cost

All of the text in blue font here and below is guidance to help you
complete the application. **All of the blue font should be deleted
before you finalize your application for submission.**

Most of the input fields in the template appear in dark blue font. This
should make it easier to distinguish between what you write and what is
in the template.

If you have questions, please contact us at 503-414-3366.

Version 7/03

<table>
<colgroup>
<col style="width: 13%" />
<col style="width: 11%" />
<col style="width: 0%" />
<col style="width: 10%" />
<col style="width: 14%" />
<col style="width: 12%" />
<col style="width: 4%" />
<col style="width: 8%" />
<col style="width: 1%" />
<col style="width: 23%" />
</colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="4"><strong>APPLICATION FOR</strong></td>
<td colspan="5"><strong>2. DATE SUBMITTED</strong></td>
<td>Applicant Identifier</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="4"><strong>FEDERAL ASSISTANCE</strong></td>
<td colspan="5">November 13, 2023</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="4"><strong>1. TYPE OF SUBMISSION:</strong></td>
<td colspan="5"><strong>3. DATE RECEIVED BY STATE</strong></td>
<td>State Application Identifier</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="4">Application Preapplication</td>
<td colspan="5"></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="4"> Construction  Construction</td>
<td colspan="5"><strong>4. DATE RECEIVED BY FEDERAL AGENCY</strong></td>
<td>Federal Identifier</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="4"> Non-Construction  Non-Construction</td>
<td colspan="5"></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="10"><strong>5. APPLICANT INFORMATION</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="5">Legal Name:</td>
<td colspan="5"><strong>Organizational Unit</strong>: Department:</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="5"><strong>«Applicant»</strong></td>
<td colspan="5"></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="5">Organizational DUNS:</td>
<td colspan="5">Division:</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="5">### You must provide a “DUNS” number unless you are
applying as an individual. (Individuals are exempt.) Guidance on
obtaining a DUNS number can be found at: <a
href="http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/duns_num_guide.pdf">www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/duns_num_guide.pdf</a>
DUNS numbers are free and can be obtained online at: <a
href="http://www.dnb.com/US/duns_update/">http://www.dnb.com/US/duns_update/</a></td>
<td colspan="5"></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="5"><strong>Address:</strong></td>
<td colspan="5"><strong>Name &amp; telephone number of person to be
contacted</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="5">Street:</td>
<td colspan="5"><strong>on matters involving this application (give area
code)</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="5"></td>
<td colspan="2">Prefix:</td>
<td colspan="3">First Name:</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="5"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="3"></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="5">City:</td>
<td colspan="5">Middle Name</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="5"></td>
<td colspan="5"></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="5">County</td>
<td colspan="5">Last Name</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="5"></td>
<td colspan="5"></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="3">State:</td>
<td colspan="2">Zip Code</td>
<td colspan="5">Suffix:</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="3"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="5"></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="5">Country</td>
<td colspan="5">Email:</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="5">USA</td>
<td colspan="5"></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="5"><strong>6. EMPLOYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER</strong>
<em>(EIN)</em></td>
<td colspan="4">Phone Number (give area code)</td>
<td>Fax Number (give area code)</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="5"></td>
<td colspan="4"></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="5"><strong>8. TYPE OF APPLICATION:</strong></td>
<td colspan="5"><strong>7. TYPE OF APPLICANT:</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="5"> New  Continuation  Revision</td>
<td colspan="5"><p>Select <u>only one</u> of the following &amp; delete
the others:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>L. Individual <strong><u>or</u></strong> M. Profit Organization
<strong><u>or</u></strong></p>
<p>N. Other (specify) <strong><u>or</u></strong> O. Not for Profit</p>
</blockquote></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="5"><p><strong>10. CATALOG OF FEDERAL DOMESTIC
ASSISTANCE</strong></p>
<p><strong>NUMBER</strong></p></td>
<td colspan="5"><p><strong>9. NAME OF FEDERAL AGENCY:</strong></p>
<p>USDA Rural Business-Cooperative Service</p></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="5"><strong>10-352</strong></td>
<td colspan="5"><strong>11. DESCRIPTIVE TITLE OF APPLICANT’S
PROJECT:</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="5"><p>TITLE (Name of Program):</p>
<p>Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG)</p></td>
<td colspan="5">Use a short title that describes the basics of the
project – e.g. “Working capital for marketing Oregon Strawberry syrup”
<strong>«Title»</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="5"><strong>12. AREAS AFFECTED BY PROJECT</strong> (Cities,
Counties, States):</td>
<td colspan="5"></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="5">, Oregon</td>
<td colspan="5"></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="5"><strong>13. PROPOSED PROJECT</strong></td>
<td colspan="5"><strong>14. CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICTS OF:</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="2">Start Date:</td>
<td colspan="3">Ending Date:</td>
<td colspan="3">a. Applicant</td>
<td colspan="2">b. Project</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="2">This date must not be before 10/1/2008:</td>
<td colspan="3">This date must not be later than 11/30/2009 &amp; cannot
be later than 1 year from the start date:</td>
<td colspan="3"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="5"><strong>15. ESTIMATED FUNDING:</strong></td>
<td colspan="5"><strong>16. IS APPLICATION SUBJECT TO REVIEW BY
STATE</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="3">a. Federal</td>
<td colspan="2"><strong>«vapg$»</strong></td>
<td colspan="5"><strong>EXECUTIVE ORDER 12372 PROCESS?</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="3">VAPG grant</td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="5">THIS PREAPPLICATION/APPLICATION WAS</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="3">b. Applicant</td>
<td colspan="2">$</td>
<td colspan="5">a. Yes.  MADE AVAILABLE TO THE STATE</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="3"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="5">EXECUTIVE ORDER 12372 PROCESS FOR</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="3">c. State</td>
<td colspan="2">$</td>
<td colspan="5">REVIEW ON</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="3"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="5">DATE: not applicable</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="3">d. Local</td>
<td colspan="2">$</td>
<td colspan="5"></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="3"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="5">b. No.  PROGRAM NOT COVERED BY E.O. 12372</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="3">e. Other</td>
<td colspan="2">$</td>
<td colspan="5"> OR PROGRAM HAS NOT BEEN SELECTED</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="3"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="5">BY STATE FOR REVIEW</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="3">f. Program Income</td>
<td colspan="2">$</td>
<td colspan="5"></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="3"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="5"><strong>17. IS APPLICANT DELINQUENT ON ANY FEDERAL
DEBT?</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="3">g. TOTAL</td>
<td colspan="2"><strong>«total$»</strong></td>
<td colspan="5"> Yes. If “Yes”, attach an explanation  No</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="10"><strong>18. TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE AND BELIEF, ALL
DATA IN THIS APPLICATION/PREAPPLICATION ARE TRUE AND CORRECT. THE
DOCUMENT HAS BEEN DULY AUTHORIZED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE APPLICANT
AND THE APPLICANT WILL COMPLY WITH THE ATTACHED ASSURANCES IF THE
ASSISTANCE IS AWARDED.</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="10">a. Authorized Representative</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td>Prefix</td>
<td colspan="5">First Name</td>
<td colspan="4">Middle Name</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td></td>
<td colspan="5"></td>
<td colspan="4"></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="6">Last Name</td>
<td colspan="4">Suffix</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="6"></td>
<td colspan="4"></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="6">b. Title</td>
<td colspan="4">c. Telephone Number (give area code)</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="6"></td>
<td colspan="4"></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="6">d. Signature of Authorized Representative</td>
<td colspan="4">e. Date Signed</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="6"></td>
<td colspan="4">November 13, 2023</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="6">Previous Editions Usable Authorized for Local
Reproduction</td>
<td colspan="4">Standard Form 424 (Rev. 9-2003) Prescribed by OMB
Circular A-102</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

> Budget Information -- Non-Construction Programs OMB Approval No.
> 0348-0044

<table>
<colgroup>
<col style="width: 17%" />
<col style="width: 10%" />
<col style="width: 15%" />
<col style="width: 7%" />
<col style="width: 6%" />
<col style="width: 6%" />
<col style="width: 8%" />
<col style="width: 4%" />
<col style="width: 10%" />
<col style="width: 15%" />
</colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="10"><strong>SECTION A – BUDGET SUMMARY</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="10">Section A has you restate the “source of funds” listed
in #15 on the previous page, apportioning them between Federal and
Non-Federal funding sources.</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td><p>Grant</p>
<p>Program</p></td>
<td>Catalog of Federal</td>
<td colspan="3">Estimated Unobligated Funds</td>
<td colspan="5"><p>New or Revised</p>
<p>Budget</p></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td><p>Function or</p>
<p>Activity</p></td>
<td>Domestic Assistance Number</td>
<td>Federal</td>
<td colspan="2">Non-Federal</td>
<td colspan="2">Federal</td>
<td colspan="2">Non-Federal</td>
<td>Total</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td>(a)</td>
<td>(b)</td>
<td>(c)</td>
<td colspan="2">(d)</td>
<td colspan="2">(e)</td>
<td colspan="2">(f)</td>
<td>(g)</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td>1.VAPG project</td>
<td>10.352</td>
<td>n/a</td>
<td colspan="2">n/a</td>
<td colspan="2"><u>«vapg$»</u></td>
<td colspan="2"><u>$</u></td>
<td><u>«total$»</u></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td>2. n/a</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="2"> total on previous page 15.a</td>
<td colspan="2">total matching funds</td>
<td>= total on previous page 15.g</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td>3. n/a</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td>4. n/a</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="2"> same as above</td>
<td colspan="2"> same as above</td>
<td> same as above</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td>5. Totals</td>
<td></td>
<td>$ 0</td>
<td colspan="2">$ 0</td>
<td colspan="2"><strong><u>«vapg$»</u></strong></td>
<td colspan="2"><strong><u>$</u></strong></td>
<td><strong><u>«total$»</u></strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="10"><strong>SECTION B – BUDGET CATEGORIES</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="10">Section B requires you to break down the planned “use
of funds” from the combined “source of funds” listed in #15 on the
previous page</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="2">6. Object Class</td>
<td colspan="7"><strong>GRANT PROGRAM, FUNCTION OR
ACTIVITY</strong></td>
<td><strong>Total</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="2">Categories</td>
<td colspan="2">(1) VAPG project</td>
<td colspan="2">(2) n/a</td>
<td colspan="2">(3) n/a</td>
<td>(4) n/a</td>
<td><strong>(5)</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="2">a. Personnel</td>
<td colspan="2"><u>$</u></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
<td><u>$</u></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="2">b. Fringe Benefits</td>
<td colspan="2"><u>$</u></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
<td><u>$</u></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="2">c. Travel</td>
<td colspan="2"><u>$</u></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
<td><u>$</u></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="2">d. Equipment</td>
<td colspan="2"><u>$</u></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
<td><u>$</u></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="2">e. Supplies</td>
<td colspan="2"><u>$</u></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
<td><u>$</u></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="2">f. Contractual</td>
<td colspan="2"><u>$</u></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
<td><u>$</u></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="2">g. Construction</td>
<td colspan="2"><u>n/a</u></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
<td><u>n/a</u></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="2">h. Other</td>
<td colspan="2"><u>$</u></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
<td><u>$</u></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="2"><strong>i. Total Direct Charges</strong> (<em>sum of
6a-6h)</em></td>
<td colspan="2"><u>«total$»</u></td>
<td colspan="2">= total on previous page 15.g</td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td><p></p>
<p>same as column 1</p></td>
<td><u>«total$»</u></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="2">j. Indirect Charges</td>
<td colspan="2">$ 0</td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
<td>$ 0</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="2"><p><strong>k. TOTALS</strong></p>
<p><em>(sum of 6i and 6j)</em></p></td>
<td colspan="2"><strong><u>«total$»</u></strong></td>
<td colspan="2">= total on previous page 15.g</td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td><p></p>
<p>same as column 1</p></td>
<td><strong><u>«total$»</u></strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="10"> income from the grant project itself during the term
of the work funded by the grant; must match 15.f on previous page;
usually this figure is“$0”</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="2">7. Program Income</td>
<td colspan="2"><u>$</u></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
<td><u>$</u></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

> **Authorized for Local Reproduction** Standard Form 424A (Rev. 7-97)

**Previous Editions Usable** Prescribed by OMB Circular A-102

<table>
<colgroup>
<col style="width: 17%" />
<col style="width: 10%" />
<col style="width: 8%" />
<col style="width: 12%" />
<col style="width: 2%" />
<col style="width: 2%" />
<col style="width: 14%" />
<col style="width: 2%" />
<col style="width: 16%" />
<col style="width: 15%" />
</colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="10"><strong>SECTION C – NON-FEDERAL RESOURCES</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="10">Section C has you restate the
<em><strong>Non-Federal</strong></em> “source of funds” listed in #15 on
the previous page, apportioning them between several categories.</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="2">(a) Grant Program</td>
<td colspan="2">(b) Applicant</td>
<td colspan="3">(c) State</td>
<td colspan="2">(d) Other Sources</td>
<td>(e) TOTALS</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="2">8. VAPG</td>
<td colspan="2"><u>$</u></td>
<td colspan="3"><u>$</u></td>
<td colspan="2"><u>$</u></td>
<td><u>$</u></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="2">9. n/a</td>
<td colspan="2">= total on previous page 15.b</td>
<td colspan="3">= total on previous page 15.c</td>
<td colspan="2">= total on previous page 15.d &amp; e.</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="2">10. n/a</td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="3"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="2">11. n/a</td>
<td colspan="2"> same as above</td>
<td colspan="3"> same as above</td>
<td colspan="2"> same as above</td>
<td>same as above</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="2"><p>12. TOTAL</p>
<p><em>(sum of lines 8-11)</em></p></td>
<td colspan="2"><strong><u>$</u></strong></td>
<td colspan="3"><strong><u>$</u></strong></td>
<td colspan="2"><strong><u>$</u></strong></td>
<td><strong><u>$</u></strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="10"><strong>SECTION D – FORECASTED CASH NEEDS</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="10"><p>Section D has you show when funds will be spent,
quarter-by-quarter, assuming a 1-year project time span. Totals should
match Section A, 1.(e), (f) &amp; (g) above. Double check your math!</p>
<p>NOTE: VAPG requires you to spend at least one matching $ for every
VAPG grant $ spent, so the drawdown of Federal funds cannot outpace the
spending of non-Federal sources.</p></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td></td>
<td colspan="2">Total for 1<sup>st</sup> Year</td>
<td colspan="3">1st Quarter</td>
<td colspan="2">2nd Quarter</td>
<td>3rd Quarter</td>
<td>4th Quarter</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td>13. Federal</td>
<td colspan="2"><strong><u>«vapg$»</u></strong></td>
<td colspan="3"><u>$</u></td>
<td colspan="2"><u>$</u></td>
<td><u>$</u></td>
<td><u>$</u></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td>14. Non-Federal</td>
<td colspan="2"><strong><u>$</u></strong></td>
<td colspan="3"><u>$</u></td>
<td colspan="2"><u>$</u></td>
<td><u>$</u></td>
<td><u>$</u></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td><p>15. TOTAL</p>
<p><em>(sum of lines 13+14)</em></p></td>
<td colspan="2"><strong><u>«total$»</u></strong></td>
<td colspan="3"><u>$</u></td>
<td colspan="2"><u>$</u></td>
<td><u>$</u></td>
<td><u>$</u></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="10"><strong>SECTION E – BUDGET ESTIMATES OF FEDERAL FUNDS
NEEDED FOR BALANCE OF PROJECT</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="10">Section E is only needed if the grant project will last
over 1 year, which is not allowed. So, “n/a” is appropriate.</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="8">FUTURE FUNDING PERIODS (Years)</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="2">(a) Grant Program</td>
<td colspan="2">(b) First</td>
<td colspan="3">(c) Second</td>
<td colspan="2">(d) Third</td>
<td>(e) Fourth</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="2">16. VAPG</td>
<td colspan="2"><u>n/a</u></td>
<td colspan="3"><u>n/a</u></td>
<td colspan="2"><u>n/a</u></td>
<td><u>n/a</u></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="2">17.</td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="3"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="2">18.</td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="3"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="2">19.</td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td colspan="3"></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="2"><p>20. TOTAL</p>
<p><em>(sum of lines 16-19)</em></p></td>
<td colspan="2"><u>n/a</u></td>
<td colspan="3"><u>n/a</u></td>
<td colspan="2"><u>n/a</u></td>
<td><u>n/a</u></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="10"><strong>SECTION F – OTHER BUDGET
INFORMATION</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="10">Section F is to provide additional explanations. Since
you are also providing a narrative in your application package, this
section may be left blank.</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="5">21. Direct Charges:</td>
<td colspan="5">22. Indirect Charges”</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="5">See narrative</td>
<td colspan="5">n/a</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="10">23. Remarks:</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="10">See narrative</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

> **Authorized for Local Reproduction** Standard Form 424A (Rev. 7-97)
> Page 2

OMB Approval No. 0348-0040

**ASSURANCES - NON-CONSTRUCTION PROGRAMS**

Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated
to average 15 minutes per response, including time for reviewing

instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining
the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of

information. Send comments regarding the burden estimate or any other
aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for

reducing this burden, to the Office of Management and Budget, Paperwork
Reduction Project (0348-0040), Washington, DC 20503.

**PLEASE DO NOT RETURN YOUR COMPLETED FORM TO THE OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT
AND BUDGET.**

**SEND IT TO THE ADDRESS PROVIDED BY THE SPONSORING AGENCY.**

**NOTE**: Certain of these assurances may not be applicable to your
project or program. If you have questions, please contact the

awarding agency. Further, certain Federal awarding agencies may require
applicants to certify to additional assurances. If such is the case, you
will be notified.

As the duly authorized representative of the applicant, I certify that
the applicant:

1\. Has the legal authority to apply for Federal assistance

and the institutional, managerial and financial capability

(including funds sufficient to pay the non-Federal share

of project cost) to ensure proper planning, management

and completion of the project described in this

application.

2\. Will give the awarding agency, the Comptroller General

of the United States and, if appropriate, the State,

through any authorized representative, access to and

the right to examine all records, books, papers, or

documents related to the award; and will establish a

proper accounting system in accordance with generally

accepted accounting standards or agency directives.

3\. Will establish safeguards to prohibit employees from

using their positions for a purpose that constitutes or

presents the appearance of personal or organizational

conflict of interest, or personal gain.

4\. Will initiate and complete the work within the applicable

time frame after receipt of approval of the awarding

agency.

5\. Will comply with the Intergovernmental Personnel Act of

1970 (42 U.S.C. §§4728-4763) relating to prescribed

standards for merit systems for programs funded under

one of the 19 statutes or regulations specified in

Appendix A of OPM\'s Standards for a Merit System of

Personnel Administration (5 C.F.R. 900, Subpart F).

6\. Will comply with all Federal statutes relating to

nondiscrimination. These include but are not limited to:

\(a\) Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (P.L. 88-352)

which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color

or national origin; (b) Title IX of the Education

Amendments of 1972, as amended (20 U.S.C. §§1681-

1683, and 1685-1686), which prohibits discrimination on

the basis of sex; (c) Section 504 of the Rehabilitation

Act of 1973, as amended (29 U.S.C. §794), which

prohibits discrimination on the basis of handicaps; (d)

the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended (42

U.S.C. §§6101-6107), which prohibits discrimination

on the basis of age; (e) the Drug Abuse Office and

Treatment Act of 1972 (P.L. 92-255), as amended,

relating to nondiscrimination on the basis of drug

abuse; (f) the Comprehensive Alcohol Abuse and

Alcoholism Prevention, Treatment and Rehabilitation

Act of 1970 (P.L. 91-616), as amended, relating to

nondiscrimination on the basis of alcohol abuse or

alcoholism; (g) §§523 and 527 of the Public Health

Service Act of 1912 (42 U.S.C. §§290 dd-3 and 290 ee-

3), as amended, relating to confidentiality of alcohol

and drug abuse patient records; (h) Title VIII of the

Civil Rights Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. §§3601 et seq.), as

amended, relating to nondiscrimination in the sale,

rental or financing of housing; (i) any other

nondiscrimination provisions in the specific statute(s)

under which application for Federal assistance is being

made; and, (j) the requirements of any other

nondiscrimination statute(s) which may apply to the

application.

7\. Will comply, or has already complied, with the

requirements of Titles II and III of the Uniform

Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition

Policies Act of 1970 (P.L. 91-646) which provide for

fair and equitable treatment of persons displaced or

whose property is acquired as a result of Federal or

federally-assisted programs. These requirements apply

to all interests in real property acquired for project

purposes regardless of Federal participation in

purchases.

8\. Will comply, as applicable, with provisions of the

Hatch Act (5 U.S.C. §§1501-1508 and 7324-7328)

which limit the political activities of employees whose

principal employment activities are funded in whole or

in part with Federal funds.

**Previous Edition Usable Standard Form 424B (Rev. 7-97)**

> **Authorized for Local Reproduction Prescribed by OMB Circular A-102**

9\. Will comply, as applicable, with the provisions of the Davis-

Bacon Act (40 U.S.C. §§276a to 276a-7), the Copeland Act

(40 U.S.C. §276c and 18 U.S.C. §874), and the Contract

Work Hours and Safety Standards Act (40 U.S.C. §§327-

333), regarding labor standards for federally-assisted

construction subagreements.

10\. Will comply, if applicable, with flood insurance purchase

requirements of Section 102(a) of the Flood Disaster

Protection Act of 1973 (P.L. 93-234) which requires

recipients in a special flood hazard area to participate in the

program and to purchase flood insurance if the total cost of

insurable construction and acquisition is \$10,000 or more.

11\. Will comply with environmental standards which may be

prescribed pursuant to the following: (a) institution of

environmental quality control measures under the National

Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (P.L. 91-190) and

Executive Order (EO) 11514; (b) notification of violating

facilities pursuant to EO 11738; (c) protection of wetlands

pursuant to EO 11990; (d) evaluation of flood hazards in

floodplains in accordance with EO 11988; (e) assurance of

project consistency with the approved State management

program developed under the Coastal Zone Management

Act of 1972 (16 U.S.C. §§1451 et seq.); (f) conformity of

Federal actions to State (Clean Air) Implementation Plans

under Section 176(c) of the Clean Air Act of 1955, as

amended (42 U.S.C. §§7401 et seq.); (g) protection of

underground sources of drinking water under the Safe

Drinking Water Act of 1974, as amended (P.L. 93-523);

and, (h) protection of endangered species under the

Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (P.L. 93-

205).

12\. Will comply with the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of

1968 (16 U.S.C. §§1271 et seq.) related to protecting

components or potential components of the national

wild and scenic rivers system.

13\. Will assist the awarding agency in assuring compliance

with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation

Act of 1966, as amended (16 U.S.C. §470), EO 11593

(identification and protection of historic properties), and

the Archaeological and Historic Preservation Act of

1974 (16 U.S.C. §§469a-1 et seq.).

14\. Will comply with P.L. 93-348 regarding the protection of

human subjects involved in research, development, and

related activities supported by this award of assistance.

15\. Will comply with the Laboratory Animal Welfare Act of

1966 (P.L. 89-544, as amended, 7 U.S.C. §§2131 et

seq.) pertaining to the care, handling, and treatment of

warm blooded animals held for research, teaching, or

other activities supported by this award of assistance.

16\. Will comply with the Lead-Based Paint Poisoning

Prevention Act (42 U.S.C. §§4801 et seq.) which

prohibits the use of lead-based paint in construction or

rehabilitation of residence structures.

17\. Will cause to be performed the required financial and

compliance audits in accordance with the Single Audit

Act Amendments of 1996 and OMB Circular No. A-133,

\"Audits of States, Local Governments, and Non-Profit

Organizations.\"

18\. Will comply with all applicable requirements of all other

Federal laws, executive orders, regulations, and policies

governing this program.

  -------------------------------------- ------- ---------------------------
  SIGNATURE OF AUTHORIZED CERTIFYING     TITLE   
  OFFICIAL                                       

                                                 

  APPLICANT ORGANIZATION                         DATE SUBMITTED

  **«Applicant»**                                November 13, 2023
  -------------------------------------- ------- ---------------------------

**Standard Form 424B (Rev. 7-97) Back**

**4. TITLE PAGE**

**Project Title:** **«Title»**

(This should be the same title as #11 on Form SF 424; describes the
essence of the project)

A 2008 Value-Added Producer Grant Working Capital Application

Submitted by:

**Applicant name:**

**«Applicant»**

**Applicant address:**

**Date:** November 13, 2023

VAPG Proposal -- Working Capital Project

**5. TABLE OF CONTENTS**

Fill in the page numbers after completing your narrative.

  --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------
  **Element**                                                                             **Page**

  1\. Form                                                                                i
  SF-424......................................................................\.....      

  2\. Form                                                                                ii
  SF-424A....................................................................\.....       

  3\. Form                                                                                iv
  SF-424B.....................................................................\.....      

  4\. Title                                                                               vi
  Page...........................................................................\.....   

  5\. Table of                                                                            vii
  Contents......................................................................          

  6\. Executive Summary.................................................................. 1

  7\. Eligibility                                                                         2
  Discussion.................................................................             

  8\. Proposal                                                                            
  Narrative..................................................................\...         

  a\. Goals of the Project............................................................... 

  b\. Performance Evaluation Criteria.....................................\............   

  c\. Proposal Evaluation Criteria .....................................................  

  i\. Business viability..............................................................    

  ii\. Customer base/increased returns.............................................       

  iii\. Commitments and support....................................................       

  iv\. Management team/work force................................................         

  v\. Work Plan/Budget..............................................................      

  vi\. Amount requested............................................................       

  vii\. Project cost per owner-producer.............................................      

  viii\. Business management capabilities.......................................          

  ix\. Sustainability and economic impact.......................................          

  x\. Business size.....................................................................  

  xi\. Administrator points (if applicable)..........................................     

  9 & 10. Certification & Verification of Matching Funds...........................       

  Appendix A. Letters of                                                                  
  Support......................................................\...                       

  Appendix B. Documentation of Matching Funds..................................\...       
  --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------

**6. Executive Summary**

(Section 6 is not to exceed 1 page.)

**Project Title: «Title»**

(The title should be the same title as #11 on Form SF 424; describes the
essence of the project)

**Applicant name: «Applicant»**

This is a request for a [working capital]{.underline} grant.

**Amount requested:** **«vapg\$»**

**Brief description of project:**

**Goals:**

**Tasks to be completed:**

**Other relevant information that provides a general overview of the
project:**

(This is the end of Section 6; be sure you did not exceed 1 page.)

VAPG Proposal -- Working Capital Project

**7. Eligibility Discussion**

(Section 7 is not to exceed 4 pages)

**7.i. Applicant Eligibility:**

(How the applicant meets the VAPG eligibility requirements)

To be eligible for a VAPG, the applicant must meet the criteria for
either an "Independent Producer", an "Agricultural Producer Group", a
"Farmer or Rancher Cooperative", or a "Majority-Controlled
Producer-Based Business Venture". Complete only the section below that
applies to you, and delete the other sections.

**[EITHER]{.underline}**

If the applicant is an **[Independent Producer]{.underline}**, as
defined by the VAPG program, complete the following section.

a\. [The applicant is an Independent Producer.]{.underline}
Specifically, the applicant is

Select the option that applies to you and explain why it does. Then
delete all the other options in this subsection.

[either]{.underline}

an individual proprietor, not operating under a formal business
organizational structure. Explanation:

[or]{.underline}

a "steering committee" (i.e., an informal association of "Individual
Producers" who are themselves in any of the organizational categories
mentioned above and who are willing to formalize their organizational
structure into one of the other mentioned business organizational
categories mentioned above if they are awarded a VAPG grant).
Explanation:

[or]{.underline}

a business entity, specifically

> If you select "business entity", go on to select one of the following
>
> [either]{.underline}
>
> a corporation. Explanation:
>
> [or]{.underline}
>
> limited liability corporation. Explanation:
>
> [or]{.underline}
>
> a partnership. Explanation:
>
> [or]{.underline}
>
> a limited liability partnership. Explanation:
>
> [or]{.underline}
>
> a cooperative. Explanation:
>
> (Note: Generally cooperatives should apply under the "Farmer or
> Rancher Cooperative" category below. However, this "Independent
> Producer" cooperative category must be used if the cooperative is
> either a fishing coop or a coop of ag harvesters -- e.g. loggers or
> forest gatherers.)
>
> [or]{.underline}
>
> other. Explanation:

b\. Table confirming that the "Independent Producer" applicant is 100%
owned by Agricultural Producers:

  ----------------------- ------------------------ -----------------------
  Names of all owners of  Explanation that this    Commodity they own &
  the "Independent        owner                    produce to which value
  Producer" applicant     himself/herself/itself   will be added
                          engages in the           
                          production or harvesting 
                          of an agricultural       
                          product (& that this is  
                          not contracted out)      

  ( %)                                             

  ( %)                                             

  ( %)                                             

  ( %)                                             

  ( %)                                             

  ( %)                                             

  ( %)                                             
  ----------------------- ------------------------ -----------------------

c\. Discussion demonstrating that the "Independent Producer" applicant
*owns and produces more than 50% of the raw commodity that will be used*
for the value-added product:

d\. Discussion demonstrating that the commodity to which value will be
added is owned by the "Independent Producer" applicant *from its raw
commodity state through the production of the value-added product*:

**[OR]{.underline}**

If the applicant is an **[Agricultural Producer Group]{.underline}**, as
defined by the VAPG program, complete the following, otherwise delete
it.

a\. [The applicant is an Agricultural Producer Group.]{.underline}

b\. Statement of the Agricultural Producer Group's mission:

c\. Discussion confirming that the applicant's mission includes working
on behalf of Independent Producers -- i.e., individuals or legal
entities that are solely owned and/or controlled by Agricultural
Producers defined as farmers, ranchers, loggers, agricultural
harvesters, or fishermen (a) who engage in the production or harvesting
of an agricultural product (& that this is not contracted out) and (b)
who own a majority interest in the agricultural products that are
produced and to which value is to be added:

d\. Explanation demonstrating that the majority of both the membership
and the board of directors are comprised of Independent Producers:

e\. Identification of the Independent Producers on whose behalf the work
will be done\*:

  ----------------------------------- -----------------------------------
  Name (or class) of Independent      Commodity this Independent Producer
  Producer                            owns & produces to which value will
                                      be added

                                      
  ----------------------------------- -----------------------------------

\* Verification of the status and participation of these parties will be
provided upon request.

f\. Discussion demonstrating that the Independent Producers on whose
behalf the work will be done *own and produce more than 50% of the raw
commodity that will be used* for the value-added product:

g\. Discussion demonstrating that the commodity to which value will be
added will be owned by Independent Producers *from its raw commodity
state through the production of the value-added product*:

**[OR]{.underline}**

If the applicant is a **[Farmer or Rancher Cooperative]{.underline}**,
as defined by the VAPG program, complete the following, otherwise delete
it. (Note: Fishing coops and ag harvester coops cannot apply under this
category; instead they must apply under the Independent Producer
category above.)

a\. [The applicant is a farmer or rancher cooperative.]{.underline}

b\. The cooperative is incorporated in the State of and is in good
standing there.

c\. Explanation confirming that the cooperative is 100% owned and
controlled by Independent Producers -- i.e., individuals or legal
entities that are solely owned and/or controlled by Agricultural
Producers defined as farmers, ranchers, loggers, agricultural
harvesters, or fishermen (a) who engage in the production or harvesting
of an agricultural product (& that this is not contracted out) and (b)
who own a majority interest in the agricultural products that are
produced and to which value is to be added:

d\. Explanation confirming that the cooperative is applying on behalf of
*all of its membership\**

OR

d\. Explanation confirming that the cooperative is applying on behalf of
*only a portion of its membership*. Detail of what portion of the
membership will be involved in the project:

  ----------------------------------- -----------------------------------
  Name (or class) of Independent      Commodity they own & produce to
  Producer coop member on whose       which value will be added
  behalf the work will be done        

                                      
  ----------------------------------- -----------------------------------

\* Verification of the Independent Producer status and participation of
these parties will be provided upon request.

e\. Discussion demonstrating that the Independent Producers on whose
behalf the work will be done *own and produce more than 50% of the raw
commodity that will be used* for the value-added product:

f\. Discussion demonstrating that the commodity to which value will be
added will be owned by Independent Producers *from its raw commodity
state through the production of the value-added product*:

**[OR]{.underline}**

If the applicant is a **[Majority-Controlled Producer-Based Business
Venture]{.underline}**, as defined by the VAPG program, complete the
following, otherwise delete it.

a\. [The applicant is a majority-controlled producer-based business
venture.]{.underline}

b\. Statement demonstrating that the applicant is legally-organized
business venture. Specifically, the applicant is

Select the description that applies to you and explain why it does. Then
delete all the other options in this section.

[either]{.underline}

a non-profit corporation. Explanation:

[or]{.underline}

a for-profit business entity, specifically

> If you select "for-profit business entity", go on to select one of the
> following
>
> [either]{.underline}
>
> a corporation. Explanation:
>
> [or]{.underline}
>
> limited liability corporation. Explanation:
>
> [or]{.underline}
>
> a partnership. Explanation:
>
> [or]{.underline}
>
> a limited liability partnership. Explanation:
>
> [or]{.underline}
>
> other. Explanation:

c\. Statement demonstrating that more than 50% of the ownership and
control of this venture is held by Independent Producers or by business
entity(ies) (partnerships, LLC's, LLP's, corporations, or cooperatives)
that are themselves 100% owned & controlled by Independent Producers --
i.e., individuals or legal entities that are solely owned and/or
controlled by Agricultural Producers defined as farmers, ranchers,
loggers, agricultural harvesters, or fishermen (a) who engage in the
production or harvesting of an agricultural product (& that this is not
contracted out) and (b) who own a majority interest in the agricultural
products that are produced and to which value is to be added:

This is demonstrated in the following ownership table:

  ------------------- ------------ --------- -------------- --------------
  Owner name          \% ownership \%        Is this owner  Commodity they
                      of venture   control   an Independent own & produce
                                   of        Producer or an to which value
                                   venture   Entity which   will be added
                                             is 100% owned  
                                             by Independent 
                                             Producers? \*  
                                             (yes/no)       

                      \%           \%                       

                      \%           \%                       

                      \%           \%                       

                      \%           \%                       

                      \%           \%                       

                      \%           \%                       
  ------------------- ------------ --------- -------------- --------------

\* Verification of the Independent Producer status and participation of
these parties will be provided upon request.

d\. As indicated in the table above, the number of Independent Producer
owners is , and the number of non-Independent Producer owners is . There
are more Independent Producer owners than non-Independent Producer
owners.

e\. As indicated in the table above, the percent financial interest of
Independent Producer owners is % , and the percent financial interest of
non-Independent Producer owners is % . The majority financial interest
is held by Independent Producer owners.

f\. Statement demonstrating that majority control is reflected in voting
rights on the governing body of the business venture:

e\. Discussion demonstrating that the Independent Producers who have
majority ownership & control of the venture also *own and produce more
than 50% of the raw commodity that will be used* for the value-added
product:

h\. Discussion demonstrating that the commodity to which value will be
added will be owned by the Independent Producers who have majority
ownership & control of the venture *from its raw commodity state through
the production of the value-added product*:

**END OF SECTION 7.i.**

**7.ii. Product Eligibility:**

(How the value-added product meets the VAPG eligibility requirements)

a\. Description of the raw commodity that will be used:

b\. Description of the process used to add value:

c\. Description of the value-added product that will be marketed:

Complete only the section "d" below related to the value-added category
that applies to your project. Delete the other sections.

**[EITHER]{.underline}**

If the value-added increment is the result of a change in physical
state:

d\. [The venture will enhance the value of an agricultural commodity or
product by changing its physical state or form.]{.underline}

Description of the change in physical state or form of the product:

Explanation of how the change in physical state or form of the product
enhances its value:

Quantification of the enhancement of value:

  ----------------------- ----------------------- -----------------------
  Commodity               Value of the commodity  Value of the commodity
                          in its value-added,     in its unchanged
                          changed physical state  physical state or form
                          or form                 

                                                  
  ----------------------- ----------------------- -----------------------

**[OR]{.underline}**

If the value-added increment is the result of differentiated production
or marketing:

d\. [The venture will enhance the value of an agricultural commodity or
product through differentiated production or marketing. This value
enhancement is demonstrated in a Business Plan.]{.underline}

Explanation of how the production or marketing of the commodity enhances
the value-added product's value:

Quantification of the enhancement of value:

  ----------------------- ----------------------- -----------------------
  Commodity               Value of the commodity  Value of the commodity
                          produced or marketed in produced or marketed in
                          the differentiated,     the standard manner
                          "value-added" manner    

                                                  
  ----------------------- ----------------------- -----------------------

Description of the already-completed business plan supporting the
differentiated production or marketing approach being proposed:

The Business Plan was developed by and completed on (provide author and
date)

**[OR]{.underline}**

If the value-added increment is the result of physical segregation:

d\. [The venture will enhance the value of an agricultural commodity
through physical segregation.]{.underline}

Explanation of how the physical segregation of the commodity or product
enhances its value:

Quantification of the enhancement of value:

  ----------------------- ----------------------- -----------------------
  Commodity               Value of the commodity  Value of the commodity
                          marketed with           marketed without
                          segregation             segregation

                                                  
  ----------------------- ----------------------- -----------------------

Demonstration that a physical barrier (i.e., distance or a structure)
separates the commodity from similar commodities *during production*:

Demonstration that the commodity will continue to be separated *during
processing*:

Demonstration that the value-added product produced will be separated
from similar products *during marketing*:

**[OR]{.underline}**

If the value-added increment is the result of on-farm renewable energy:

d\. [The economic benefit realized from the production of farm or
ranch-based renewable energy.]{.underline}

Explanation of how renewable energy will be generated on property owned
or leased by the owners of the venture and not elsewhere:

Explanation of how this property (on which the renewable energy will be
generated) is a farm or ranch -- i.e., a place from which \$1,000 or
more in agricultural products (crops and livestock) were raised and sold
or normally would have be raised and sold during the previous year:

**END OF SECTION 7.ii.**

**7.iii. Purpose Eligibility:**

(How the project purpose meets the VAPG eligibility requirements)

a\. [This project purpose is for Working Capital
Activities]{.underline}. It is [not]{.underline} for both Planning
Activities and Working Capital Activities.

b\. Explanation confirming that all of the proposed project activities
are eligible Working Capital activities (e.g., to purchase of inventory,
office equipment & supplies; pay salaries, utilities, & office rents;
legal & accounting costs; conduct marketing campaign)

c\. Demonstrate that [all]{.underline} of the project activities are
directly related to the processing and/or marketing of a value-added
product:

d\. Demonstrate that [none]{.underline} of the project activities
involve agricultural production:

e\. Description of the third-party, independent Feasibility Study that
has already been completed specifically for the proposed project:
(Indicate the name of the party who conducted it and date when it was
completed. Failure to have obtained a third-party feasibility study by
the application deadline will result in a determination that the
application is incomplete, and it will not be considered for funding.)

f\. Description of the Business Plan that has already been completed
specifically for the proposed project: (Indicate the name of the party
who developed it and date when it was completed. Failure to have
obtained a business plan by the application deadline will result in a
determination that the application is incomplete, and it will not be
considered for funding.)

g\. Confirm that the applicant has not previously received a VAPG grant
for Working Capital Activities for this project:

h\. Affirm that the applicant is not applying for any other VAPG grant
in 2008:

i\. Demonstrate that the value-added project will be completed in 365
days or less; will not begin before October 1, 2008; and will end by
November 30, 2009:

Complete item "j" below only if the applicant is an Agricultural
Producer Group, a Farmer or Rancher Cooperative, or a
Majority-Controlled Producer-Based Business Venture. Otherwise, since it
is not applicable to Independent Producers, it can be deleted.

j\. ["Emerging market" requirement]{.underline}. Explanation confirming
that the proposed venture has been in operation for less than two years
at the time of application:

(This is the end of Section 7; be sure you did not exceed 4 pages.)

VAPG Proposal -- Working Capital Project

> **8. Proposal Narrative**

(Section C not to exceed 35 pages)

**8.a. Goals of the Project**

Clear statement of the ultimate goals of this project:

Explanation of how the market will be expanded:

Explanation of degree to which incremental revenue will accrues to the
benefit of the agricultural producer(s):

**8.b. Performance Evaluation Criteria:**

a\. Applicant's current customer base vs. projected increase in customer
base:

b\. Current revenue accruing to Independent Producers vs. projected
increase in revenue accruing to Independent Producers:

c\. Current number of jobs existing for the venture vs. project increase
in number of jobs:

d\. The applicant's current energy production capacity vs. projected
increase in energy capacity:

[either]{.underline}

Not applicable. This value-added project has no significant energy
component.

[or]{.underline}

(e.g. gallons of ethanol produced annual, megawatt-hours produced
annually)

e\. Applicant's suggested criteria by which the success of this project
should be evaluated in the event that a grant is awarded:

(Note: At least [one]{.underline} suggestion is [required]{.underline}.)

**8.c. Proposal Evaluation Criteria (with Work Plan/Budget):**

Demonstration of how this proposal satisfies the VAPG evaluation
criteria for Working Capital Grants ("i" through "xi" below):

(Respond to the questions in this section to explain why your project
has merit and deserves to be funded. This is your chance to "self-score"
your proposal on each of the priority factors that will be used by USDA
to select among all of the eligible VAPG proposals.)

[i. *Business viability* (0-8 points)]{.underline}:

(Points will be awarded based on the basis of the technical and economic
feasibility and sustainability of the venture and the efficiency of
operations.)

Technical feasibility of the venture:

Economic feasibility of the venture:

Sustainability of the venture:

Efficiency of the venture's operations:

You may wish to address any of the following factors which support the
venture's viability. (Delete those that are inapplicable.)

Findings of the independent feasibility study that has been developed
for this project and its conclusions.

Findings in the business plan that has been completed for this project
and its conclusions.

Discuss the financial statements submitted and what they demonstrate
about the project's economic feasibility and sustainability.

Profitability of the venture:

Likely improvement to the local rural economy from the venture:

References to independent, third-party information that supports the
venture:

Discussion of similar projects:

Cost and availability of inputs:

Type of market where the value-added product will be marketed (e.g.
local, regional, national, international):

Potential number of customers:

Cost of processing the commodity:

How much value will be added to the raw commodity through the
value-added process

How the added value will be distributed among the producers, processors,
and any other intermediaries:

Any additional non-monetary value that could be obtained by end-users of
the product:

(For maximum points, clearly address the following criterion)

Summary describing how the project has strong technical feasibility,
strong economic feasibility, strong sustainability, and strong
efficiency of operations.

[ii. *Customer base/increased returns* (0-8 points)]{.underline}:

(Proposals that demonstrate strong growth in a market or customer base
and greater Value-Added revenue accruing to producer-owners will receive
more points than those that demonstrate less growth in markets and
realized Value-Added returns.)

Describe in detail how the customer base for the product being produced
will expand because of the value-added venture. Provide documented
estimates of this expansion.

Describe in detail how a greater portion of the revenue derived from the
venture will be returned to the producers that are owners of the
venture.

Reference what the financial statement projections developed for the
venture show with regard to expanded customer base and increased revenue
returned to the producer.

(For maximum points, clearly address the following criterion)

Summary describing how the project is expected to expand the customer
base for the value-added product AND increase returns to the Independent
Producer-owners in an exceptional way.

[iii. *Commitments and support* (0-8 points)]{.underline}:

(Proposals will be reviewed for evidence that the project enjoys third
party support and endorsement, with emphasis placed on financial and
in-kind support as well as technical assistance. Points will be awarded
based on the greatest level of documented and referenced commitment.
Maximum points will be given to applicants demonstrating strong
financial commitment from the Independent Producer-owners, third-party
financial and/or in-kind support, and end-user market commitment.)

Discuss *producer* commitments to the project -- the number of
Independent Producers currently involved as well as how many may
potentially be involved, and the nature (e.g., financial support,
in-kind support, technical assistance), level, and quality of their
contributions.

Discuss *end-user* commitments -- the potential markets and the
potential amount of output to be purchased (e.g., identified markets,
letters of intent, or contracts from potential buyers and the amount of
output to be purchased).

Discuss other *third-party* commitments -- the nature (e.g., financial
support, in-kind support, technical assistance), level, and quality of
their contributions.

List of all individuals/groups which have provided support letters and
commitment letters (and have the support letters and commitment letters
available upon request).

You may attach letters of support as Appendix A at the end of this
narrative template. Any letters that are attached will count against the
35-page limit on your Project Narrative. (Any letters not attached must
be available upon request.) The template assumes there will be 5
letters, but this can be increased or reduced as appropriate.

+---+-----+-----------------------+---------------+--------------------+
| > | >   | Name of group         | Type of group | Type & amount of   |
|   |  At | providing support     | (producer,    | support or         |
| L | tac | letter                | end-user, or  | commitment         |
| e | hed |                       | third-party)  | (financial,        |
| t | >   |                       |               | in-kind, technical |
| t |  in |                       |               | assistance,        |
| e | >   |                       |               | purchase of        |
| r | App |                       |               | output, market     |
| > | end |                       |               | commitment, etc.)  |
|   | ix? |                       |               |                    |
| \ |     |                       |               |                    |
| # |     |                       |               |                    |
+---+-----+-----------------------+---------------+--------------------+
| 1 |     |                       |               |                    |
+---+-----+-----------------------+---------------+--------------------+
| 2 |     |                       |               |                    |
+---+-----+-----------------------+---------------+--------------------+
| 3 |     |                       |               |                    |
+---+-----+-----------------------+---------------+--------------------+
| 4 |     |                       |               |                    |
+---+-----+-----------------------+---------------+--------------------+
| 5 |     |                       |               |                    |
+---+-----+-----------------------+---------------+--------------------+

[iv. *Management team/work force* (0-8 points)]{.underline}:

(Proposals that have a team with a successful track record managing
similar projects will receive higher points for this criterion.)

Demonstrate how the education and capabilities of project managers and
those who will operate the venture reflect the skills and experience
necessary for project success.

Discuss the availability and quality of the labor force needed to
operate the venture.

Describe the successful track record of the management team in managing
similar projects.

[v. *Work plan/budget* (0-8 points)]{.underline}:

(Logical, realistic, and economically efficient work plans and budgets
will result in higher scores.)

**PROJECT WORK PLAN & BUDGET**

Overview of the project's work plan and budget:

The work plan below provides specific and detailed working capital task
descriptions that will accomplish the project\'s goals. The budget below
presents a detailed breakdown of all estimated costs associated with the
working capital activities and allocates these costs among the listed
tasks. The budget provides sufficient detail to see whether or not funds
are being used for qualified purposes. The budget accounts for both
matching funds as well as grant funds.

Description in reasonable detail of the specific tasks necessary to
accomplish the project:

(List and provide information on as many discrete tasks as are part of
the project in this table. The template assumes there will be 4 tasks,
but this can be increased or reduced as appropriate. **NOTE: Applicants
must contribute cash or "in-kind" matching funds from non-Federal
sources on at least a 1-for-1 basis. No larger match is required.**)

+---+---------------------+------+------+-------+------+------+-------+
| > | Task name           | S    | End  | [Budg | [Bud | [Bud | **    |
|   |                     | tart | Date | et]{. | get] | get] | [Budg |
| T |                     | Date |      | under | {.un | {.un | et]{. |
| a |                     |      |      | line} | derl | derl | under |
| s |                     |      |      | Fe    | ine} | ine} | line} |
| k |                     |      |      | deral |      | In-  | To    |
| > |                     |      |      | (inc. | Non  | Kind | tal** |
|   |                     |      |      | VAPG) | -Fed |      |       |
| \ |                     |      |      |       | eral |      |       |
| # |                     |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   |                     |      |      |       | Cash |      |       |
+---+---------------------+------+------+-------+------+------+-------+
| 1 | [Task               |      |      | \$    | \$   | \$   | \$    |
|   | name:]{.underline}  |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   |                     |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   | [Descri             |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   | ption]{.underline}: |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   |                     |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   | [Responsible        |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   | staff]{.underline}: |      |      |       |      |      |       |
+---+---------------------+------+------+-------+------+------+-------+
| 2 | [Task               |      |      | \$    | \$   | \$   | \$    |
|   | name:]{.underline}  |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   |                     |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   | [Descri             |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   | ption]{.underline}: |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   |                     |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   | [Responsible        |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   | staff]{.underline}: |      |      |       |      |      |       |
+---+---------------------+------+------+-------+------+------+-------+
| 3 | [Task               |      |      | \$    | \$   | \$   | \$    |
|   | name:]{.underline}  |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   |                     |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   | [Descri             |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   | ption]{.underline}: |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   |                     |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   | [Responsible        |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   | staff]{.underline}: |      |      |       |      |      |       |
+---+---------------------+------+------+-------+------+------+-------+
| 4 | [Task               |      |      | \$    | \$   | \$   | \$    |
|   | name:]{.underline}  |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   |                     |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   | [Descri             |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   | ption]{.underline}: |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   |                     |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   | [Responsible        |      |      |       |      |      |       |
|   | staff]{.underline}: |      |      |       |      |      |       |
+---+---------------------+------+------+-------+------+------+-------+
|   |                     |      |      |       |      |      |       |
+---+---------------------+------+------+-------+------+------+-------+
|   | **Total Project**   |      |      | **    | \$   | \$   | **«   |
|   |                     |      |      | «vapg |      |      | total |
|   |                     |      |      | \$»** |      |      | \$»** |
+---+---------------------+------+------+-------+------+------+-------+

A more detailed budget breakdown for each of the specific tasks listed
above follows:

(Now provide a detailed breakdown on the costs associated with each task
list in the table above. Note that the budget items listed below
correspond to those found on Form SF 424A, so if you completed that form
in full, you will simply be transcribing the numbers from that budget
form into the tables below. The template assumes there will be 4 tasks,
but this can be increased or reduced as appropriate.)

\*Task budget for Task #1 -- (Task name used in master Work Plan table
above.)

  ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
  **Budget item**   **VAPG Funds**    **Matching        **Total Cost**
                                      Funds**           

  Personnel         \$                \$                \$

  Fringe Benefits   \$                \$                \$

  Travel            \$                \$                \$

  Office Equipment  \$                \$                \$

  Supplies          \$                \$                \$

  Contractual       \$                \$                \$

  Other (see below) \$                \$                \$

  Indirect Charges  \$                \$                \$

  **TOTAL**         **\$**            **\$**            **\$**
  ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------

Explanation of "Other" category: (in inapplicable, this line may be
deleted)

Explanation of the basis for the above budget figures:

\*Task budget for Task #2 -- (Task name used in master Work Plan table
above.)

  ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
  **Budget item**   **VAPG Funds**    **Matching        **Total Cost**
                                      Funds**           

  Personnel         \$                \$                \$

  Fringe Benefits   \$                \$                \$

  Travel            \$                \$                \$

  Office Equipment  \$                \$                \$

  Supplies          \$                \$                \$

  Contractual       \$                \$                \$

  Other (see below) \$                \$                \$

  Indirect Charges  \$                \$                \$

  **TOTAL**         **\$**            **\$**            **\$**
  ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------

Explanation of "Other" category: (in inapplicable, this line may be
deleted)

Explanation of the basis for the above budget figures:

\*Task budget for Task #3 -- (Task name used in master Work Plan table
above.)

  ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
  **Budget item**   **VAPG Funds**    **Matching        **Total Cost**
                                      Funds**           

  Personnel         \$                \$                \$

  Fringe Benefits   \$                \$                \$

  Travel            \$                \$                \$

  Office Equipment  \$                \$                \$

  Supplies          \$                \$                \$

  Contractual       \$                \$                \$

  Other (see below) \$                \$                \$

  Indirect Charges  \$                \$                \$

  **TOTAL**         **\$**            **\$**            **\$**
  ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------

Explanation of "Other" category: (in inapplicable, this line may be
deleted)

Explanation of the basis for the above budget figures:

\*Task budget for Task #4 -- (Task name used in master Work Plan table
above.)

  ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
  **Budget item**   **VAPG Funds**    **Matching        **Total Cost**
                                      Funds**           

  Personnel         \$                \$                \$

  Fringe Benefits   \$                \$                \$

  Travel            \$                \$                \$

  Office Equipment  \$                \$                \$

  Supplies          \$                \$                \$

  Contractual       \$                \$                \$

  Other (see below) \$                \$                \$

  Indirect Charges  \$                \$                \$

  **TOTAL**         **\$**            **\$**            **\$**
  ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------

Explanation of "Other" category: (in inapplicable, this line may be
deleted)

Explanation of the basis for the above budget figures:

(For maximum points, clearly address the following 3 criteria)

How the work plan & budget -- dollar amounts associated with each task
-- are realistic for the project.

How the work plan & budget -- specific time frames associated with each
task -- are realistic for the project.

How the work plan & budget -- personnel associated with each task -- are
realistic for the project.

[vi. *Amount requested* (0 or 2 points)]{.underline}.

(Two (2) points will be awarded for grant requests of \$150,000 or
less.)

The VAPG amount requested is **«vapg\$»**.

[vii. *Project cost per owner-producer* (0-3 points)]{.underline}.

(\$1-\$100,000 of VAPG funds per owner-producer equals 3 points,
\$100,001-\$200,000 equals 2 points, \$200,001-\$300,000 equals 1
point.)

Number of Independent Producers that are owners of the venture (as
explained in section 7.i above, "Applicant Eligibility"):

(In cases where family members, including husband and wife, are owners
and producers in a venture, each family member counts as one
owner-producer.)

Verification of this number will be provided upon request.

[viii. *Business management capabilities* (0-10 points)]{.underline}.

(Maximum points will be awarded to applicants who show that their
business management systems are comprehensive and sound as appropriate
to the nature, size, and complexity of their operation. It is a good
idea to cite any management systems used, whether formally written or
informal.)

Explanation of the applicant's **financial management system** -- and
why it is appropriate for a business of the applicant's size, nature,
and complexity. (0-2 points)

Explanation of the applicant's **procurement procedures** -- and why
they are appropriate for a business of the applicant's size, nature, and
complexity. (0-2 points)

Explanation of the applicant's **personnel policies** -- and why they
are appropriate for a business of the applicant's size, nature, and
complexity. (0-2 points)

Explanation of the applicant's **property management system** -- and why
this is appropriate for a business of the applicant's size, nature, and
complexity. (0-2 points)

Explanation of the applicant's **travel procedures** -- and why they are
appropriate for a business of the applicant's size, nature, and
complexity. (0-2 points)

[ix. *Sustainability and economic impact* (0-15 points)]{.underline}.

(Maximum points will be awarded to projects that are shown to be most
likely to succeed and that will have a significant impact on the local
economy.)

Discussion of the venture's sustainability.

Discussion of the venture's expected economic impact on the local
economy.

Finally, the reviewer's attention is also directed to the response to
the first criteria, "Business Viability."

[x. *Business size* (0 or 5 points).]{.underline}

(Applicants that have less than \$10 million in gross sales will receive
5 points. Applicants that have \$10 million or more in gross sales will
receive 0 points. If selected for funding, the applicant will need to
document the gross sales amount.)

Applicant's amount of gross sales for the most recent complete fiscal
year was \$ .

(Applicants that do not have a complete fiscal year should so state in
their applications.)

Verification of this figure will be provided upon request.

[xi. *Administrator points* (up to 5 points, but not to exceed 10
percent of the total points awarded for the other 10
criteria).]{.underline}

(The Administrator of the Rural Business-Cooperative Service may award
additional points to recognize innovative technologies, insure
geographic distribution of grants, or encourage value-added projects in
under-served areas.)

Explanation of how the technology proposed is innovative.

Explanation of how the project is in an under-served area.

**9. CERTIFICATION OF MATCHING FUNDS**

The applicant certifies that matching funds will be available at the
same time grant funds are anticipated to be spent and that matching
funds will be spent in advance of grant funding, such that for every
dollar of grant funds advanced, not less than an equal amount of
matching funds will have been expended prior to submitting the request
for reimbursement.

**10. VERIFICATION OF MATCHING FUNDS**

In Part 8.c.v above and in Forms SF 424 & 424A, a budget was provided
showing all sources and uses of funds during the project period. As
reflected there, matching funds will total: \$

These matching funds will come from the source(s) in the amounts listed
below:

The following are possible sources of matching funds. Delete those that
are inapplicable. Complete the applicable sources and insert the
indicated verification document(s) right after this section.

[Applicant's cash on hand]{.underline}: \$ \*

\* Attached in Appendix B as Exhibit is a bank statement with an ending
date *within one month of this application's submission* is required.
The bank statement shows an ending balance equal to or greater than the
amount of cash matching funds proposed.

[Applicant's cash from committed loan fund]{.underline}s: \$ \*\*

\*\* Attached in Appendix B as Exhibit is a signed letter from the
lending institution verifying (a) the amount available, (b) the purposes
for which funds may be used, and (c) the time period of availability of
the funds -- i.e., must include *specific dates of fund availability*
(month/day/year) which are within the proposed grant project period.

[Applicant's in-kind contribution]{.underline}: \$ \*\*\*

\*\*\* Attached in Appendix B as Exhibit is a signed letter from an
authorized representative of the applicant (a) verifying the goods or
services to be donated, (b) verifying the value of the goods or
services, (c) verifying when the goods and services will be donated --
i.e., must include *specific dates of fund availability*
(month/day/year) which are within the proposed grant project period --
and (d) explaining why the contribution will not have any competing
professional or personal interest that would make it difficult to
contribute impartially to the completion of the project -- i.e., why it
does not represent a conflict of interest. (The basis used to value
in-kind contributions is subject to scrutiny and must be fully
justified. The valuation must use a clearly defensible methodology based
on the cash market value of comparable goods and services. You are
strongly encouraged to discuss the use of in-kind matches and their
valuation with the RD State Office.)

[Third-party cash contribution]{.underline}: \$ \*\*\*\*

\*\*\*\* Attached in Appendix B as Exhibit is a signed letter from that
third party verifying (a) how much cash will be donated and (b) when it
will be donated -- i.e., must include *specific dates* (month/day/year)
which are within the proposed grant project period.

[Third-party in-kind contribution]{.underline}: \$ \*\*\*\*\*

\*\*\*\*\* Attached in Appendix B as Exhibit is a signed letter from the
third party verifying (a) the goods or services to be donated, (b) the
value of the goods or services, and (c) when the goods and services will
be donated -- i.e., must include *specific dates* (month/day/year) which
are within the proposed grant project period. (The basis used to value
in-kind contributions is subject to scrutiny and must be fully
justified. The valuation must use a clearly defensible methodology based
on the cash market value of comparable goods and services. You are
strongly encouraged to discuss the use of "in-kind" matches and their
valuation with the RD State Office.)

**APPENDIX A: LETTERS OF SUPPORT**

Append any letters of support mentioned in Part 8.c.iii. above.

Note: These pages count against the 35-page limit on your "Proposal
Narrative".

**APPENDIX B: VERIFICATION OF MATCHING FUNDS**

Append documentation mentioned in part D above.

Examples of acceptable documentation can be viewed on-line at:

<http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/coops/verifymatch031407.htm>

PLEASE NOTE THERE IS A NEW REQUIREMENT that all match verification
letters from lenders and third parties include *specific dates of match
fund availability* ***(month/day/year!)*** and that those dates be
within the proposed grant project period.

**This is the end of the VAPG Working Capital application template.**

-   Once you have completed it to your satisfaction, delete all the
    blue-font instructions above.

-   Then go back and fill in the Table of Contents page numbers.

-   Finally, print out the template. Do not duplex.

-   Assemble the application packet:

    1.  Forms 424, 424A & 424B at the front of the template,

    2.  The complete application template,

    3.  As Appendix A, append your Letters of Support, and

    4.  As Appendix B, append your Verification of Matching Funds
        documents.

-   Do not staple or bind the packet. Instead use a rubber bank or clip.

-   NOTE: Both the [Business Plan]{.underline} and the [Independent
    Feasibility Study]{.underline} cited in the application narrative
    should be submitted along with the application packet. If they are
    not immediately available, these must be provided within 30 days of
    the application deadline -- April 30, 2008.

-   Send one signed original and, please, one courtesy copy.

-   By not later than March 31, 2008 (postmark date), send the
    Fapplication to:

> USDA Rural Development
>
> Attn: Business & Coop Programs
>
> 1201 NE Lloyd Blvd., Ste. 801
>
> Portland, OR 97232-1274
>
> (Confirmation phone \# 503-414-3366)