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Pennsylvania Launches $10 Million Business Builder Program

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A picturesque view of Pennsylvania's agricultural landscape, home to small and mid-sized farms benefiting from the new Business Builder Program.

News Summary

Pennsylvania has announced a $10 million Business Builder Program aimed at supporting small and mid-sized farms and food businesses. In partnership with the USDA Northeast Regional Food Business Center, the program will provide funding awards between $15,000 and $100,000 to help businesses scale their operations and improve market connections. Applications are open until April 7, 2025, with awards expected to be announced in July. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to bolster the state’s agricultural sector and promote sustainable food systems.

Pennsylvania Launches $10 Million Business Builder Program for Farms and Food Businesses

Pennsylvania has initiated a new partnership with the USDA Northeast Regional Food Business Center to roll out a $10 million Business Builder Program aimed at supporting small and mid-sized farms and food enterprises. The program, announced by Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, is designed to strengthen the state’s agricultural sector and enhance regional food systems through targeted funding.

The funding will provide financial support in the form of awards ranging from $15,000 to $100,000. These awards will assist businesses in scaling operations, expanding their markets, and improving connections within segments of the regional food supply chain. Applications for the funding are currently open and will remain accessible until April 7, 2025. Awardees are expected to be announced in July, with funded projects set to commence in August.

Program Objectives and Structure

The Business Builder Program is structured into three distinct tracks, addressing various needs within the agricultural community. While specific details about each track were not disclosed, the intention is to ensure that a wide range of businesses can apply for and benefit from the funding. These efforts include direct support for aquaculture and wild-caught marine businesses, highlighting the program’s comprehensive approach to the state’s agricultural landscape.

Redding emphasized that Pennsylvania’s unique geographical advantages, including proximity to four of the ten largest U.S. markets and a robust transportation infrastructure, make it an ideal location for agricultural business growth. The initiative not only aims to provide immediate funding but is also seen as a means to amplify the impact of ongoing investments made by the current administration under Governor Josh Shapiro.

Supporting Pennsylvania’s Agricultural Growth

The Business Builder Program is part of a broader strategy to bolster Pennsylvania agriculture. By focusing on small and mid-sized farms and food-related businesses, the partnership with the USDA aims to create a sustainable environment for growth and innovation in the sector. Redding pointed out that this initiative will enhance Pennsylvania’s position as a key player in regional food systems.

As part of the initiative, Secretary Redding highlighted that the partnership with the NASDA Foundation is vital for increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of investments made by the state’s leadership. The goal is to create opportunities for farmers and entrepreneurs, allowing them to innovate and adapt to current market demands.

Background Context

Small and mid-sized farms play an essential role in Pennsylvania’s economy. They contribute significantly to the local food supply and employment, while also fostering sustainable agricultural practices. The Business Builder Program signifies an acknowledgment of the challenges faced by these businesses, particularly in a post-pandemic economic landscape where many are seeking to recover and thrive.

As the agriculture sector continues to evolve, initiatives like the Business Builder Program will be crucial in providing the necessary support for farmers and food businesses to navigate changes, expand their reach, and improve their operations. By prioritizing funding and support for this vital segment of the industry, Pennsylvania aims to cultivate a resilient agricultural future.

Overall, the launch of the $10 million Business Builder Program represents a significant investment in the future of Pennsylvania’s farming and food industry, with the potential to positively impact the economic vitality of the region.