The primary objective of the Value-Added Producers Grant program is to help agricultural producers enter into value-added activities related to the processing and/or marketing of bio-based value-added products. Generating new products, creating and expanding marketing opportunities, and increasing producer income are the end goals of this program.  Priority is extended to beginning farmers and ranchers, socially-disadvantaged farmers or ranchers, small or medium-sized family farm and ranch operator and others.  Grants are awarded on a competitive basis.