HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania agriculture groups can now apply for state grants designed to promote farm products, expand exports, and strengthen markets for goods produced in the commonwealth.
What This Means for You
- Up to $381,810 in state funding is available for agricultural promotion and export programs.
- Nonprofit groups can apply for matching grants to support marketing, education, and market research for Pennsylvania farm products.
- Applications for the funding round are open through April 10.
Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding on Wednesday opened the latest round of Agricultural Product Promotion, Education, and Export Promotion Matching Grants, making up to $381,810 available to nonprofit organizations that help market and develop export opportunities for Pennsylvania-grown products.
The program supports activities such as market research, educational initiatives, promotional campaigns, and export development tied to agricultural products grown, raised, or produced in Pennsylvania.
Grant Program Focus
State officials say the grants are intended to strengthen domestic sales while expanding international demand for Pennsylvania agricultural products.
“Pennsylvania’s food, fiber, and hardwood products reflect the strength, quality, and innovation of our agricultural community,” 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.”
The Shapiro administration has already invested nearly $500,000 through the program across 20 projects designed to increase demand for Pennsylvania products including beef, dairy, hardwoods, and vegetables.
Program Example
During Wednesday’s announcement, Redding also highlighted how previous funding has supported programs such as the Pennsylvania Beef Council’s PA Beef to PA Schools initiative.
The program connects beef producers with school districts to expand the use of locally sourced beef in school meals.
Last year, the Department of Agriculture provided $49,000 to support the program’s efforts to link local producers with schools and expand access to Pennsylvania-raised beef in student lunches.
“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,” said Nichole Hockenberry, executive director of the Pennsylvania Beef Council.
Application Details
Guidelines and application procedures for the Agricultural Product Promotion, Education, and Export Promotion Matching Grant Program are published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
Applications will remain open through April 10.
According to the Department of Agriculture, Pennsylvania’s agriculture industry includes more than 48,800 farms and supports nearly 600,000 jobs statewide, contributing about $132.5 billion annually to the state’s economy.
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