News Summary
The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has initiated the Business Builder program, offering $10 million in sub-awards to small and mid-sized farms and food businesses. Ranging from $15,000 to $100,000, these funds aim to support the growth and expansion of diverse agricultural enterprises, including aquaculture and non-profit organizations. Applications are open until April 7, 2025, with winners to be announced in July 2025. This initiative is designed to strengthen local economies and enhance food security in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania – The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has launched a new initiative to support small and mid-sized farms and food businesses through the introduction of Business Builder sub-awards. In collaboration with the USDA Northeast Regional Food Business Center, the program offers a total of $10 million to qualifying businesses looking to scale, expand, or enhance their operations.
Awards under this program will range between $15,000 and $100,000, catering to various eligible applicants that include not only farm and food businesses but also aquaculture, wild-caught fisheries, and certain non-profit organizations. Non-profit organizations wishing to apply must adhere to specific revenue limits, qualifying if their annual revenue is $1 million or less or if their programming revenue does not exceed $350,000.
Applications for these sub-awards opened on February 24, 2025, and will be accepted until April 7, 2025. Interested parties can submit their applications through the Northeast Regional Food Business Center website. Award recipients will be announced in July 2025, with funded projects expected to commence in August 2025.
Program Goals and Objectives
The Business Builder program has been designed with the intention of providing resources to small and mid-sized agricultural enterprises. By offering these sub-awards, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture aims to uplift local economies and strengthen the food supply chain.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Business Builder sub-awards, applicants must meet specific criteria. Aside from the revenue limits set for non-profits, the program is open to a wide range of business types, including various agricultural and aquaculture operations. This broad eligibility is meant to encompass a diverse array of enterprises that contribute to the regional food economy.
Strategic Importance of Pennsylvania Agriculture
Pennsylvania is strategically located near four of the ten largest U.S. markets. This advantageous position not only enhances the potential for agricultural businesses to thrive but also provides them with a competitive edge when it comes to accessing larger markets. The state Department of Agriculture believes that this program will help businesses leverage their location while supporting their growth ambitions.
Future Impact
The funding provided through the Business Builder program is expected to have a significant impact on the agricultural landscape of Pennsylvania. By aiding in the scaling and expansion of farm and food businesses, the initiative seeks to foster innovation, improve market access, and ultimately bolster the state’s economy and food security.
With the application window currently open, Pennsylvania’s small and mid-sized farmers and food businesses are encouraged to take advantage of this program to navigate the challenges posed by a rapidly changing agricultural industry.
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