By Blake Jackson
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro is pushing to double the budget for the state’s Agricultural Innovation Grant program, increasing funding to $23 million. This proposal follows overwhelming demand during the program’s first year.
Originally launched in the previous state budget, the program reimburses farmers and ag-related businesses for modernizing their operations. The $10 million budget from the initial round was fully distributed, supporting 88 projects across 45 counties.
Applications for the first round totalled $68 million, revealing significant interest in funding for sustainable and efficient farming practices. These included projects like robotic apple packers, composting systems, milking robots, and renewable energy production.
One notable recipient was Brubaker Farms in Lancaster County, awarded $400,000 to turn manure into energy. Josh Brubaker said the grant supports their long-term sustainability goals.
Another recipient, Rice Fruit Company in Adams County, received $130,000 to install a robotic bin-tipper for apple packaging.
Valerie Ramsburg of Rice Fruit said, “When farmers are able to make the most of new technologies, the efficiencies and benefits are passed on to consumers and Pennsylvania communities and help to maintain the rural atmosphere much of the Keystone State enjoys.”
Supporters say the program enhances rural communities and encourages innovation, but some lawmakers are cautious. With Pennsylvania’s structural deficit in mind, Republican lawmakers are questioning whether there will be a meaningful return on the investment.
Despite the concerns, State Representative Paul Takac said the demand proves its value. “The fact that there were $68 million in grant applications in year one shows that this is the kind of investment that will pay dividends for years and years to come,” he said.
Shapiro also proposed $2 million to study county-based digesters that convert waste into electricity. If approved, total funding for agricultural innovation efforts would reach $25 million.
Photo Credit: gettyimage-jamesbrey
Categories: Pennsylvania, Business