* As we’ve discussed before, the consolidation by just a few companies of the meat and poultry processing industry allows the giant companies to drive up prices for consumers while driving down prices paid to producers. Broadening the industry could help. But I also wonder if smaller companies will be able to navigate the state paperwork to obtain the grants. We saw that happen earlier this week.

Press release…

Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announced Friday a new $6 million capital grant program designed to strengthen the meat and poultry supply chain by helping independently owned meat processing companies in Illinois build capacity and create and retain jobs.

Through the Meat & Poultry Supply Chain Capital Grant Program, companies are eligible for grants of $250,000 to $1.5 million, with a company match of at least four times the amount awarded.

“The Meat and Poultry Supply Chain Capital Grant Program is part of Illinois’ holistic effort to lower the costs of consumer goods for Illinois families,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “By building capacity in Illinois’ meat processing industry, we are strengthening the supply chain, creating and retaining jobs and working to lower costs for families.”

Meat prices have increased considerably since the pandemic, in part due to limited capacity and lack of competition. […]

Through the program, companies can get funding for the construction of a new facility, expanding or renovating existing facilities, and modernizing processing and manufacturing equipment. Priority goes to applicants located in underserved and rural areas.