Show-Me Entrepreneurial Grants for Agriculture (SEGA) Innovation Grant Program

The Show-Me Entrepreneurial Grants for Agriculture (SEGA) Innovation Grant Program is administered by the Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority (MASBDA). This program aims to advance value-added agriculture in Missouri by supporting projects that enhance the economic potential of agricultural products. Value-added agriculture refers to the transformation or segregation of agricultural products in ways that increase their market value, including physical processing or unique production methods that deliver direct economic benefits to Missouri producers. MASBDA offers partial funding to eligible applicants such as individuals, cooperatives, businesses, and organizations that are based in Missouri and engaged in agriculture. Projects must be tied directly to facilities, equipment, or consulting services that expand or establish value-added operations. Examples of fundable activities include the construction of new processing facilities, expansion of existing operations, equipment purchases, or the formation of marketing or production cooperatives. To be eligible, applicants must be Missouri residents at least 18 years old, and proposed projects must be rooted in Missouri agriculture. The grant covers up to 75 percent of eligible project costs, with a minimum award of $50,000 and a maximum of $250,000. A minimum 25 percent cash match is required, and higher match levels may improve scoring outcomes. Funds cannot be used for operational expenses, debt repayment, employee salaries, marketing, land acquisition, or other specified exclusions. The funding is strictly reserved for capital and service expenditures that lead to measurable agricultural improvements. Proposals are evaluated competitively using a 100-point scale, emphasizing agricultural economic development potential, credibility, near-term impact, and overall merit. Projects must score a minimum of 60 points to be eligible for funding. Specific scoring components include clarity of need, realistic outcomes, budget justification, and the applicant's financial match. Multiple applications are allowed if they propose distinct ventures, and prior recipients may reapply provided all previous reporting requirements have been met. Applications must be received electronically or in hard copy by 3:00 p.m. on September 19, 2025, to be considered for the November 2025 funding cycle. Submission should be directed to MASBDA via email or physical mailing address. Upon award, grantees must sign a formal contract, provide interim and final reports, and adhere to strict documentation of project expenditures. MASBDA reserves the right to audit recipients for up to three years post-completion to ensure compliance and impact measurement. Program inquiries can be directed to MASBDA via email at masbda@mda.mo.gov or by phone at 573-751-2129. Additional information, including application materials, is available at masbda.com. This grant does not recur on a set annual basis; thus, future cycles may vary depending on funding availability.

Provide a realistic and well-justified budget; emphasize economic benefit to Missouri agriculture; match above 25% increases competitiveness.