Economic development director highlights AgTech summit, USDA programs and new local businesses

The county’s economic development executive reported to the board on regional agriculture‑technology activity, USDA rural development programs and a new child nutrition option that local officials could host.

The executive described the University of Illinois AgTech Innovation Summit, noting themes such as precision fermentation, bioprocessing, digital agriculture tools and investments in ag‑tech startups. She said the University of Illinois and regional partners are positioning the region as an ag‑tech hub and that the county should engage local colleges and business schools.

The presenter also summarized USDA programs, including the Farm Bureau’s Rural Development Grant Program (2024–25 cycle awarded $105,000 across several projects) and a new “Meals to Go” program the presenter said had not previously operated in Iroquois County. She said the Illinois State Board of Education contact (Tran Bragan) confirmed there have been few traditional summer meal locations in the county and that certain communities are ineligible for open 'Meals to Go' sites because area income exceeds program requirements.

The economic development representative encouraged communities to share program flyers and noted a new small business (Cindy’s Roadside Cafe in Buckley) with hours and menu details. She said she would distribute information and applications to towns interested in grant and program participation.