Key Takeaways:
- $4.8 million in grants announced for equipment purchase to strengthen the food supply chain in Pennsylvania.
- The grants are part of a $26 million award from the USDA’s Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure program.
- Aimed at improving the efficiency of the supply chain from farm to consumer, enhancing the local economy.
- Second round of grants, with applications due by May 15, 2024.
- Part of broader efforts, including a proposed $52.37 million in state investments to innovate and support the agriculture industry.
Introduction to the Grant Initiative
Pennsylvania’s Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding recently announced the availability of $4.8 million in federally funded grants. These grants, aimed at purchasing equipment, are intended to strengthen the midpoint of the food supply chain—the crucial link from the farm field to the consumer’s table. This financial injection comes from the $26 million awarded to Pennsylvania through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure program.
Supporting Local Economies Through Agriculture
“A strong local supply chain keeps more dollars in the pockets of our farm businesses, growing their bottom lines, and feeding the economy in communities across Pennsylvania,” Redding explained, highlighting the dual benefit of these grants to both the agriculture sector and the local economy. This initiative is positioned to multiply the impact of investments under the Shapiro Administration, aimed at creating a thriving economy supported by a robust agriculture industry.
Grant Details and Objectives
Pennsylvania is recognized for its direct sales from farms to consumers, a vital component of the consumer food supply. The grants, which will be awarded in amounts ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, focus solely on equipment purchases. This restriction aims to directly enhance processing, packaging, and distribution capabilities without covering facility upgrades, staffing, or other ancillary costs.
Broader Investment in Agriculture
This grant announcement coincides with broader strategic investments proposed by Governor Josh Shapiro, aiming to reinforce Pennsylvania’s agriculture sector. A notable component of Shapiro’s budget for 2024-25 is the inclusion of over $52.37 million in state investments designed to foster opportunity and innovation within the state’s $132.5 billion agriculture industry. Specifically, a $10 million agriculture innovation fund has been proposed to aid farmers in modernizing their operations.
Application and Funding Timeline
The current round of funding follows an earlier grant application phase that concluded on March 30, 2024. Applicants for this second round of grants are directed to submit their proposals through the Department of Community and Economic Development’s Electronic Single Application by 5:00 p.m. on May 15, 2024, ensuring a streamlined and equitable review process.
Latest News on Pennsylvania’s Agriculture Industry
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The Pennsylvania Executive Budget for fiscal year 2024-25 includes funding initiatives to support and expand agricultural practices. It includes $10.3 million for agriculture innovation, $3 million for food security, $655,000 for seed certification and pest detection, $5.6 million for dairy industry support, $5 million for a state laboratory, and $1.7 million for IT modernization.
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Read the complete budget here.
