HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania officials have opened a new round of state grants worth up to $381,810 to help nonprofit organizations promote and expand markets for agricultural products grown in the Commonwealth.
What This Means for You
- Nonprofit groups can apply for state funding to promote Pennsylvania farm products and expand exports.
- The grants require matching funds, meaning recipients must contribute their own funding alongside the state support.
- Applications are open through Thursday, April 10.
The funding is part of the Agricultural Product Promotion, Education, and Export Promotion Matching Grant Program, which helps organizations market Pennsylvania agricultural goods, conduct research on consumer demand, and develop new domestic and international markets.
A matching grant means the state provides funding only if the recipient contributes an equal or proportional amount of its own funding to the project.
Expanding Markets for Pennsylvania Agriculture
The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture said the Shapiro administration has invested nearly $500,000 through the program across 20 projects designed to increase demand for products such as beef, dairy, hardwoods, and vegetables grown in the state.
Agriculture remains a major part of Pennsylvania’s economy. The beef industry alone contributes about $1 billion annually and supports nearly 14,000 jobs statewide, according to state officials.
“Pennsylvania’s food, fiber, and hardwood products reflect the strength, quality, and innovation of our agricultural community,” Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said. “Through the Shapiro Administration, we are investing in creative partnerships that expand markets, strengthen exports, and connect consumers, both here at home and around the world, with the people and products that define Pennsylvania agriculture.”
Example: Connecting Farms to School Cafeterias
State officials highlighted the Pennsylvania Beef Council as one example of how grant funding is being used.
Last year, the Department of Agriculture invested $49,000 to support the council’s PA Beef to PA Schools program. The initiative connects Pennsylvania beef producers with school districts and helps schools serve locally sourced beef in student meals.
Secretary Redding discussed the program during a visit to Central Dauphin Middle School, which participates in the initiative. The school is one of more than 140 across the state involved in the program.
Nichole Hockenberry, executive director of the Pennsylvania Beef Council, said the program links students with local agriculture while supporting farmers.
“The Ag Promotion Grant represents more than funding; it demonstrates a commitment to strengthening agriculture, supporting PA schools, and investing in the well-being of our students,” Hockenberry said. “Connecting communities through the power of local agriculture creates a direct line from the farm to the cafeteria.”
How to Apply
Nonprofit organizations involved in agricultural promotion, research, or export development may apply for the grants.
Program guidelines and application procedures are published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin at:
https://www.pacodeandbulletin.gov/
Applications will remain open through April 10, 2026.
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