The 1997 State Legislature provided funding to the Department of Agriculture for grants to assist livestock and dairy cooperatives in developing value-added products. In 1998 the Legislature extended this program to other types of cooperatives in addition to livestock and dairy. The program has assisted a wide variety of groups including producers of dairy products, natural beef, lamb, pork, ostrich, chicken, apples and hybrid poplar. The primary goal is to assist eligible cooperatives in carrying out the necessary tasks which result in a sound business plan that can be used for consideration in obtaining public or private financing. The grant program also provides other benefits.
Cooperatives receive continuing education at workshops on issues important for their success.
They also get an opportunity to network with other cooperatives in the program and benefit from their experiences. In addition, cooperatives receive referrals to other organizations that work with cooperatives. This area provides assistance in the organization of the cooperative and help with the by-laws and articles of incorporation. It also helps the cooperative to focus on what they really want to do and who they are. This identifies the market potential and the market trends in the proposed market category.