New PA Preferred Grants Support Farm Promotion Efforts

By Blake Jackson

Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding recently visited Oak Grove Farms, a PA Preferred market in Cumberland County, to introduce the new PA Preferred Marketing Grants program.

This initiative, funded with $500,000 through the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, is designed to help farmers and agricultural producers expand their marketing efforts and strengthen connections with consumers.

Eligible applicants can apply for reimbursement of up to $10,000 for promotional expenses tied to PA Preferred, PA Preferred Homegrown by Heroes, or PA Preferred Organic branding.

Applications for the first round of funding must be submitted by May 16, 2026. Producers using the PA Preferred Organic label may also qualify for an additional $10,000 in reimbursement for related marketing activities.

“The blue and yellow PA Preferred checkmark tells shoppers they are buying quality products and using their buying power to support Pennsylvania farmers and make our economy stronger,” Secretary Redding said.

“The Shapiro Administration is committed to creating real opportunities for our farmers, families, and communities to thrive.”

The grant program follows legislation signed by Governor Josh Shapiro in November 2023, which authorized funding support for the PA Preferred initiative. This marks the first time grants have been offered since the program was launched in 2011 to promote locally produced agricultural goods.

By using the PA Preferred label, farms and markets like Oak Grove Farms can build consumer trust and highlight products grown and produced within the state under high-quality standards.

The program continues to grow, with more than 1,140 members and 73 veteran farmers participating through the Homegrown by Heroes initiative.

Pennsylvania also ranks among the nation’s leaders in organic agriculture. To support continued growth, the state has invested $1 million in the Organic Center for Excellence and established the PA Preferred Organic brand, reinforcing quality assurance and authenticity for locally produced goods.

Members benefit from year-round promotion through events, social media, and initiatives such as the PA Farm Show, helping connect consumers with Pennsylvania agriculture.

For registration, click here.

Photo Credit: getty-images-eric-ferguson