Agriculture Business Development Center to offer farmer-veterans up to $10,000 in agricultural grants

The Agriculture Business Development Center will offer farmer-veterans grants of up to $10,000 for agricultural business needs.

The grants will be available through two veterans’ service organizations.

Community Partnership in Butler County will receive $100,000 to award to veteran farmer applicants as part of a beginning farmer program. Grants will cover costs associated with equipment, supplies, working capital, and other applicable farming needs. The program also provides on-farm education and business training support.

Greenforge/Pennsylvania Veteran Farming Project in Westmoreland County will receive $100,000 to award eligible veteran farmer applicants as part of the Force Multiplier Grant program. Grants will provide working capital for farm equipment and supplies, cost sharing, tangible marketing supplies, or other demonstrated needs that align with the PA Agriculture Veteran Grant Program Request for Proposals.

“Pennsylvania’s veterans spent their military career protecting and serving others,” Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said. “When returning to civilian life, they bring critical skillsets and a commitment to service with them. We have worked hard to ensure that everyone who wants to be a part of agriculture has the opportunity to contribute without barriers. These grants are a down payment on the success of farmer-veterans in the industry, for the success of Pennsylvania.”