State to provide $303,000 in agricultural grants

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has opened the application period for the Pennsylvania Agricultural Product Promotion, Education and Export Promotion Matching Grant Program.

The department will award up to $303,000 in matching funds to nonprofit agricultural promotion and marketing organizations for the reimbursement up to half of project costs. The final 2023-24 budget will determine the specific amount available.

Grants will be awarded for promotional and educational projects that increase consumer awareness and sales or expand export markets. This includes festivals and tourism events, regional buy-local campaigns, and statewide promotions of PA products.

“Pennsylvania food, fiber, and hardwood products are second to none,” Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said. “The Shapiro Administration is seeking innovative marketers and educators who can help tell Pennsylvania Agriculture’s story to consumers at home and around the world. These grants help Pennsylvania businesses connect with consumers, support the more than 593,000 Pennsylvanians whose jobs depend on them, and continue to feed our families and our economy.”

The department will give priority to projects that increase food security and decrease food waste; leverage additional private or federal funds; expand or create export markets; promote agritourism, Farmers Market Nutrition Programs and farm markets; and promote PA Preferred hardwoods, dairy products, fruit and vegetables.

The application deadline is July 14.