By Blake Jackson
Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding has announced an increase in the Farm Vitality Grants, doubling the maximum amount from $7,500 to $15,000 per applicant starting May 17. These grants support Pennsylvania farmers by reimbursing 75% of business planning costs for expansion, diversification, or ownership transition.
Established under the 2019 Pennsylvania Farm Bill, the Farm Vitality Grants have already helped 401 farms with over $2.8 million in support. Notably, 60% of these grants have assisted families in passing their farms to the next generation, including 148 preserved farm owners safeguarding farmland from development.
The announcement was made at Jersey Acres Farms in Pine Grove. This preserved dairy farm received a $1,312 Farm Vitality Grant in 2024 to assist with generational transition. In 2025, the farm also secured a $100,000 Agricultural Innovation Grant for robotic milkers to improve efficiency in its 230-cow operation.
“Farm Vitality Grants are helping farmers across Pennsylvania get the market analysis, financial planning, risk management, and other expertise they need to realize their vision for their farm’s future, whether that’s expanding their operations or protecting their family’s farming legacy,” said Secretary Redding.
Farmers can combine the Farm Vitality Grants with other resources like:
- Beginning Farmer Tax Credit Program: Offers tax breaks for those selling or renting to new farmers, saving $1.3 million to date.
- Beginning Farmer Realty Transfer Tax Exemptions: Provides tax relief to new farmers buying preserved farms.
- Next Generation Farmer Loan Program: Helps young farmers access over $15.4 million in low-interest loans for capital purchases.
To further shape farm policy, the Department of Agriculture is conducting a Farm Progression Survey with Penn State Extension and PA Farm Link. The survey aims to gather insights to support future generations of farmers in Pennsylvania.
Photo Credit: pexels-karolina-grabowska
Categories: Pennsylvania, Business