The Shapiro Administration announced a $224,190 investment in Agriculture Promotion Grants to boost domestic sales and exports of Pennsylvania agricultural products. The announcement was made by Agriculture Secretary Redding at Waltz Estate Winery and Family Farm, a sixth-generation family business featured during the Pennsylvania Wine Association’s PA Wine Fall Harvest Celebration.
The grants are part of PA Farm Bill-funded initiatives aimed at growing Pennsylvania agriculture. They will reimburse nonprofits up to 50% of costs for projects that educate consumers, promote specific agriculture sectors, expand the consumer base for Pennsylvania products, or enhance regional agriculture-based tourism.
“Pennsylvania families produce the quality food and drinks that bring families around the world to the table,” said Secretary Redding. He highlighted Pennsylvania’s wine industry as the nation’s fourth-ranking wine producer and its status as the number one hardwood exporter.
The state’s wine and grape industry supports 10,756 jobs and contributes $1.77 billion annually to the state economy. With over 400 licensed wineries across five regions, they generate $747 million in tourism revenue each year.
PA Preferred member Waltz Vineyards is known for quality grapes and exceptional wines. “The Pennsylvania Wine Association is honored to receive this Agriculture Promotion Grant,” said Vice President Zach Waltz. “This funding empowers us to showcase the incredible quality, diversity, and heritage of Pennsylvania-grown wines.”
Kaitie Burger from the Pennsylvania Tourism Office noted that visitors can explore award-winning varietals while exploring regional wine trails. Governor Shapiro’s 2025-26 budget proposes additional investments in agriculture innovation and food assistance programs.
Several organizations received grants for various projects supporting education and promotion within different agricultural sectors. These include Allegheny Hardwood Utilization Group, Friends of the Pennsylvania Farm Show Foundation, Keystone Wood Products Association, Pennsylvania Beef Council, among others.
The Governor’s Economic Development Strategy prioritizes agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism industries with a new marketing strategy led by Visit PA’s Great American Getaway initiative.
For more information on planning your next getaway or finding local agricultural products, visit visitpa.com or PApreferred.com.
Information from this article can be found here.
