By Blake Jackson
Governor Josh Shapiro, Lt. Governor Austin Davis, and Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding have announced the second round of funding through Pennsylvania’s Agricultural Innovation Grant Program, the first statewide initiative of its kind in the nation.
The program will invest $9.7 million in 97 projects, while generating an additional $4.8 million in private investment to support new technologies and innovative practices across the agricultural sector.
The funding is designed to help farms and agribusinesses improve efficiency, increase production, conserve soil and water resources, and expand the use of renewable energy.
The grants support projects that apply emerging technologies to real-world agricultural challenges while strengthening the long-term sustainability of Pennsylvania agriculture.
“For the last three years, I’ve visited farms across the Commonwealth to hear from our farmers and see firsthand both the challenges they face and the noble work they do,” said Governor Shapiro.
“Agriculture is the backbone of our Commonwealth, and this important funding will help Pennsylvania farmers, growers, and producers innovate and grow, while building on three years of historic investments that have delivered commonsense solutions to lower costs, open new markets, and strengthen the entire agricultural industry.”
Lt. Governor Davis announced the funding during Penn State’s Ag Progress Days, attended by hundreds of agriculture and government leaders.
“Pennsylvania is leading the way in agricultural innovation, and we want to continue that progress, which is why this year’s bipartisan state budget once again includes $10 million for the Ag Innovation grant program,” said Lt. Governor Davis. “The Shapiro-Davis Administration will always stand up for our farmers, who work hard, 365 days a year, to put food on our tables.”
Agriculture remains a vital part of Pennsylvania’s economy, supporting more than 48,800 farms, approximately 600,000 jobs, and contributing $132.5 billion annually. State leaders view innovation as a key component of sustaining growth and competitiveness within the industry.
“Over 250 years, Pennsylvania farmers have shown unwavering commitment to caring for our land and water, while feeding a growing population,” said Secretary Redding.
“Our industry has been a model of responsible growth, despite ever-increasing challenges from extreme weather, erratic supply costs, changing consumer preferences, and rapidly changing technology. This is another Shapiro-Davis Administration investment to help ensure Pennsylvania’s ag industry has the tools to thrive and innovate for years to come.”
The program received more than $68 million in funding requests, demonstrating strong demand for innovation investments. In response, the state’s 2026-27 budget includes another $10 million for the program’s third year.
Applications for the next funding cycle will open on September 1, continuing efforts to advance agricultural technology, efficiency, and sustainability across Pennsylvania.
For more information, visit https://www.pa.gov/services/pda/apply-for-the-agricultural-innovation-grant.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-kotenko-a
Categories: Pennsylvania, Government & Policy