MANHEIM, PA — The Shapiro Administration has announced a $224,190 investment in Agriculture Promotion Grants aimed at bolstering domestic sales and exports of Pennsylvania’s agricultural products. Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding disclosed the funding on June 11 at Waltz Estate Winery and Family Farm, a sixth-generation business set to participate in the Pennsylvania Wine Association’s PA Wine Fall Harvest Celebration, one of the grant-supported initiatives.
The Agriculture Promotion Grants, part of the PA Farm Bill initiative, will reimburse nonprofits up to 50% of their project costs. These projects focus on consumer education, promoting specific agricultural sectors, expanding markets for Pennsylvania products, and enhancing regional agritourism.
“Pennsylvania families produce the quality food and drinks that bring families around the world to the table. These investments will help keep Pennsylvania family businesses thriving and Pennsylvania agriculture a national leader for years to come,” Redding said, emphasizing the impact of grants on supporting industries like wine and hardwood.
The Pennsylvania wine and grape industry contributes $1.77 billion annually to the state’s economy, supporting over 10,700 jobs, and ranking fourth in U.S. wine production. Waltz Estate Winery, a PA Preferred® member, is celebrated for its quality grapes, award-winning wines, and significant role in promoting Pennsylvania’s wine heritage.
“The Pennsylvania Wine Association is honored to receive this Agriculture Promotion Grant. This funding empowers us to showcase the incredible quality, diversity, and heritage of Pennsylvania-grown wines,” said Association Vice President Zach Waltz.
Grant recipients include organizations across multiple sectors such as hardwood and forest products, beef, and sustainable forestry. Highlights include $49,990 allocated to the Pennsylvania Beef Council’s farm-to-school protein initiative and $53,000 for the Pennsylvania Forest Products Association’s promotion efforts.
The Shapiro Administration’s investment spotlights Pennsylvania’s efforts to sustain its agricultural legacy while driving economic growth and innovation.
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