By Blake Jackson
On the fourth day of the Pennsylvania Farm Show, Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Lisa Graybeal joined leaders from Pennsylvania’s Centers for Excellence to highlight how these centers are driving growth by connecting industry associations, universities, and the Commonwealth. Their goal is to advance research, innovation, and business development across the state’s plant and animal agriculture sectors.
"This year’s Farm Show theme, Growing A Nation, isn’t just a reference to the food on our plates," Graybeal said. "It’s a recognition that agriculture is the foundation of our economy, the health of our communities, and the security of our nation. The Centers for Excellence are enhancing Pennsylvania’s global competitiveness and growing the future of our industry and our economy.”
The centers bring together the practical experience of industry professionals with the expertise of Pennsylvania’s research and teaching institutions. “By combining the practical experience and in-depth knowledge of a wide spectrum of industry professionals with the expertise of our world-class research and teaching institutions, the centers are a model that works, making strategic investments where each industry needs them most to ensure Pennsylvania continues to be a national leader.”
Through the state budget, the centers receive a collective $4.1 million in funding. Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration launched the Center for Plant Excellence in 2025 and also established the Organic Center of Excellence, including legislation creating the PA Preferred Organic brand to open new markets for local producers.
These join existing centers including The Center for Dairy Excellence, The Center for Poultry & Livestock Excellence, The Center for Livestock Excellence, and The Center for Beef Excellence.
Funding for the beef industry supports initiatives such as Beef Education, Beef Quality Assurance, grants to improve herd genetics and veterinary infrastructure, and youth programs like PA Beef to PA School and Beefing Up Backpacks.
“What really makes this investment meaningful is how these funds are used,” said Scotty Miller, farm manager of Masonic Villages Farm. “Through the beef line item, we are strategically reinvesting in the industry in a way to create long-term value and measurable impact.”
The Center for Dairy Excellence supports over 4,800 dairy farms, leveraging public-private partnerships to provide grants and resources that generate $4 in private investment for every $1 from the Commonwealth.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-oticki
Categories: Pennsylvania, Business