MT. JOY, PA — Pennsylvania’s farmers are poised to lead the charge in agricultural innovation thanks to Governor Josh Shapiro’s announcement of $10 million in grants under the nation’s first Agricultural Innovation Grant Program. This groundbreaking initiative is set to empower local agricultural businesses to enhance conservation efforts, implement clean energy solutions, and improve efficiency across the Commonwealth’s farmlands.
“Our farmers form the backbone of our economy here in Pennsylvania—they put food on our tables and in our stores and restaurants every day,” said Governor Shapiro. “If we want to compete and succeed as a Commonwealth, then we have to invest in them. We are announcing investments in game-changing projects that are fueling the future of farming in Pennsylvania—and giving farmers and ag producers the tools they need to get ahead. The future of our economic success and opportunity runs through our farmlands, and we are going to continue to invest in agricultural innovation in my Administration.”
Revolutionizing Agriculture Statewide
The Agricultural Innovation Grant Program represents a bold leap forward for one of Pennsylvania’s most vital industries. It provides Pennsylvania farmers and agricultural producers with the financial support necessary to adopt cutting-edge technologies and practices. These projects, spanning 40 areas of innovation, are focused on generating renewable energy, reducing nutrient waste, protecting soil and water resources, and incorporating practices that enhance environmental sustainability.
Out of over $68 million in funding requests, 88 diverse projects from 45 counties secured grants, each demonstrating the potential to revolutionize aspects of farming and food production. The grants will support a wide array of initiatives, from technologies that improve efficiency to those supporting carbon-storing crops and renewable-resource alternatives.
One such initiative is an anaerobic digester project at Brubaker Farms in Mount Joy, Lancaster County, where manure will be converted into clean energy. This project, awarded $400,000 in grant funding, exemplifies how innovative technologies can simultaneously advance sustainable practices and improve farm profitability.
“As our farmers face increasing demands to feed a growing population while continuing their legacy of environmental stewardship, this fund will help power our farm and food businesses to meet those challenges,” said Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. “These investments ensure that Pennsylvania’s agricultural industry can continue to thrive and innovate for years to come.”
Broad Support and Bipartisan Collaboration
The program, championed by State Representative Paul Takac and proposed as part of Governor Shapiro’s 2024-2025 budget, received overwhelming bipartisan support. Representative Takac emphasized the program’s potential as a public-private partnership to modernize farming practices and bolster profitability for local farmers. “These Agricultural Innovation Fund matching grants are a great example of public-private partnerships and will help fund projects to make Pennsylvania farms more efficient, profitable, and sustainable, while also benefitting the environment and climate,” he said.
Agriculture is a linchpin of Pennsylvania’s economy, encompassing more than 53,000 farms, supporting over 600,000 jobs, and contributing $132.5 billion annually. Governor Shapiro’s Economic Development Strategy places agriculture at the forefront of statewide growth, recognizing its potential to sustain jobs, protect natural resources, and boost innovation.
“Innovation is critical if agriculture is going to continue to be the Commonwealth’s leading industry. The Governor has recognized the importance of food security by including agriculture as one of the five pillars of his economic development strategy,” said Chris Hoffman, President of the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau. “We need to think outside the box to help farmers meet challenges in a sustainable fashion while providing additional revenue streams that sustain their operations.”
Shaping the Future of Farming
The significance of the Agricultural Innovation Grant Program extends far beyond its immediate financial impact. By accelerating the adoption of clean energy and conservation technologies, the program has the potential to reduce environmental strain while boosting economic outcomes. Ultimately, this initiative signals Pennsylvania’s commitment to sustainable growth as it provides farmers with the tools they need to evolve and adapt to modern challenges.
“This fund will help ensure Pennsylvania’s agricultural industry remains productive both now and in the future,” said Secretary Redding.
A Vision for Tomorrow
Governor Shapiro’s bold efforts to invest in agriculture through innovation come at a critical time. With evolving environmental and economic challenges, the grants will drive progress in ensuring food security, protecting natural resources, and reinforcing Pennsylvania’s national reputation as an agricultural leader.
By connecting farmers with cutting-edge solutions and meaningful resources, this program not only lays the groundwork for a more sustainable future but also affirms a clear message—Pennsylvania is not just preserving its agricultural past but actively shaping its future. The Agricultural Innovation Grant Program is more than a policy; it’s a catalyst for long-term economic and environmental success across the Commonwealth.
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