VAN BUREN COUNTY, Mich. -- Earlier this week, the Michigan Commission on Agriculture and Rural Development voted to approve $415,000 in Food and Agriculture Investment Program grants to three Michigan producers, including Burnette Foods, Inc. in Van Buren County.

A total of $190,000 in grant funding is going to Burnette Foods in support of the company’s $5 million expansion project which plans to allow the company to increase production capacity and annual apple processing by 11.5 million pounds and create ten new jobs.

“We are honored to receive this support from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. This grant enables us to invest in advanced food manufacturing technologies and sustainable practices that will improve efficiency, ensure food safety, and support local supply chains,” said William B. Sherman, Hartford Site Manager of Burnette Foods.

“This funding not only strengthens our capacity to meet growing demand but also reinforces our commitment to quality, innovation, and community development. We’re grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the region’s economic growth and food security."

The company that became Burnette Foods was started in 1935 by Theodore and Alice Mae Sherman when they purchase a cherry orchard in Central Lake.

In 1971, the Sherman's sons (William, Robert, and Theodore) assume management of Sherman Canning Company and began expanding.

In 1984, after other acquisitions around the state, the company purchased Burnette Farms Packing Cooperative in Hartford, and all of the arms of the company and its facilities become Burnette Foods. 

Community Cuts, LLC in Ogemaw County is getting $125,000 and Meating Hall, LLC in Grand Rapid is getting $100,000.

"The funding, which is awarded by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), will allow these companies to increase capacity and product offerings, expand their facilities and create 15 new jobs," state officials said.

Since Fiscal Year 2019, MDARD says it has awarded more than $5.3 million of FAIP grants which were part of more than $184 million the department delivered over the past seven years to help local communities build infrastructure, promote agricultural prosperity, ensure food safety and create jobs.

“MDARD works every day to create economic opportunities for communities throughout Michigan,” said MDARD Director Tim Boring. “Through the Food and Agriculture Investment Program, MDARD helps Michigan businesses grow, hire more workers and strengthen our state’s agricultural economy.”