USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack kicked off June by announcing a more than $2 billion package to transform the U.S. food system. The funds include the previously announced funding to expand meat and poultry processing, including an additional $600 million in new aid to support supply chain infrastructure beyond meat processing. A sum of $400 million is set aside for regional food business centers, up to $300 million for a new organic transition initiative and $75 million for urban agriculture.

The funding comes from the American Rescue Plan, established in March 2021 for pandemic relief. The funds will also help fruit and vegetable growers comply with safety regulations and create regional food business centers. Monies will also expand USDA’s Healthy Food Financing Initiative to reduce food deserts, prevent and reduce food loss and waste and increase markets for smaller-scale farmers through child nutrition programs.

Read more on the $2 billion food system investment here.