HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) has announced the availability of approximately $1.8 million in grant funding aimed at workforce development and human resources assistance for farms and agribusinesses across the state. This initiative, known as the Farms & Agribusiness Workforce Engagement Grant, is a two-year program designed to support small and mid-sized agricultural operations by enhancing their recruitment and retention of skilled workers.
The grant seeks to address critical workforce shortages that many farms face, thereby preventing potential closures and layoffs. It will fund a statewide program that connects 1,000 farms and agribusinesses with PA CareerLink® services. Additionally, it offers in-depth technical assistance to 100 agricultural employers and provides agricultural workforce training to 250 PA Workforce Development stakeholders. A significant aspect of the initiative is the provision of 10,000 hours of individualized HR and workforce development consulting, tailored to meet the specific needs of each participating organization.
L&I Secretary Nancy A. Walker emphasized the economic importance of the state’s agricultural sector, stating, “Pennsylvania’s agricultural sector is essential to our economy, but many small farms and agribusinesses struggle to find and retain skilled workers. This grant will help ensure our agricultural employers have the tools and resources they need to build a strong workforce and thrive in today’s competitive labor market.”
Eligible organizations for this grant are those with deep-rooted agricultural experience and strong connections to Pennsylvania’s farming communities. The selected provider will collaborate closely with L&I, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, and local workforce development boards to ensure the effective implementation of the program. The performance period for the grant extends from June 1, 2025, to May 31, 2027.
Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding echoed the necessity of skilled labor in the agricultural sector, noting, “Like any other business, farms can’t run without skilled workers. The same is true of businesses that supply farms with the equipment they need, and for businesses that process what farms produce. The Shapiro Administration is investing to ensure the Commonwealth remains a national agricultural leader and provide all Pennsylvanians with the opportunity to succeed.”
The partnership between L&I and the Department of Agriculture aims to expand apprenticeship opportunities and training programs within the agriculture industry. This collaboration builds on Governor Shapiro’s 2023-24 budget investment in organic agriculture through the Center for Organic Excellence, an innovative project that supports organic farmers and businesses. Addressing workforce challenges has been identified as a top priority to sustain growth and success in the industry.
Pennsylvania holds a prestigious rank in the U.S. for organic commodity sales, standing third nationwide, with sales exceeding $60 billion in 2022, as reported by the Organic Trade Association.
Interested organizations are invited to apply by submitting a grant proposal to L&I by December 2, 2024, at 11:59 PM. The full details can be accessed in the Notice of Grant Availability on the L&I website. This initiative represents a pivotal step in fortifying Pennsylvania’s agricultural workforce, ultimately contributing to the state’s economic vitality and sustainability.
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