Kentucky KADF Meat Processors Project (Forgivable Loan)

KADF money, as a forgivable loan covering up to 50% of eligible costs, to build a new USDA-certified meat processing facility or to expand or renovate an existing one, including equipment. State funds are capped at $250,000 per program year. A high-priority commitment of county funds from the facility's county is required. Custom-exempt processors are ineligible.

• Project must be a new USDA-certified meat processing facility, or an expansion or renovation of an existing USDA-certified facility.

• 'Applicants must obtain and maintain USDA processing certification for the duration of their agreement. Applicants who wish to remain a custom processing facility are ineligible for funding.'

• A formal business plan reviewed by KCARD or another third party, plus a consultation summary from an approved third-party meat consultant.

• A high-priority commitment of county funds from the facility's county.

• Match must be new project expenses or documented donated materials; land, in-kind services, labor and other KADF funds do not count.

50% cost-reimbursement as a forgivable loan. Only expenditures after KOAP receives the application count. Itemized receipts plus a cancelled check or card statement are required; no cash receipts.

Published amounts: 'Applicants will be limited to 50% cost-reimbursement for the eligible expenditures as a forgivable loan.' 'Applicants will be limited to no more than $250,000 in state funds, per program year.' KADF (state and county) cannot exceed 50% of total project cost.

Complete the KADF Project Application. The county council(s) prioritize it and forward it to the KADB for the final decision. Include the KCARD-reviewed business plan and the meat-consultant summary, and answer the consultant's feedback before the Application Review Committee meeting.

Deadline text on the page: Monthly KADF project cycle: applications are due by the last Friday of the month for the next month's KADB review. Reauthorized for 2026 ('Meat Processors - Reauthorized for 2026. No changes.').