Sign in Subscribe
Governors

Governor Shapiro Highlights Historic Investments in Pennsylvania's Agriculture Sector

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Governor Josh Shapiro visited Penn State's annual Ag Progress Days, emphasizing his Administration's commitment to strengthening Pennsylvania's agriculture sector through innovation, cost reduction, and support for farmers. The event showcased the Commonwealth's agricultural heritage and innovation, solidifying Pennsylvania's position as a national leader in agriculture. The Shapiro Administration's investments have delivered historic support for Pennsylvania's farmers, growers, and producers, contributing $132 billion annually to the economy and supporting nearly 600,000 jobs.

Key Takeaways:

  • Governor Shapiro's Administration has invested over $61 million in the HPAI Recovery Fund to support poultry farmers, maintaining its first-in-the-nation status.
  • The proposed 2025-26 budget builds on historic accomplishments, spurring innovation, connecting Pennsylvanians with healthy, locally produced food, and reducing costs for agricultural businesses.
  • The Agricultural Innovation Grant Program has supported 88 awardees from 45 counties, representing 31 Pennsylvania-produced commodities and 40 areas of innovation.
  • The Governor's first two budgets delivered historic support for Pennsylvania agriculture, with investments to spur innovation, protect against animal disease, and strengthen the Commonwealth's food supply chain.
  • Since taking office, Governor Shapiro has brought Democrats and Republicans together to invest in new technologies, strengthen supply chains, and expand economic opportunity for farmers, growers, and producers.
  • The Governor's first-in-the-nation Agricultural Innovation Grant Program has created jobs, driven economic growth, and kept Pennsylvania at the forefront of agricultural innovation.
  • The Shapiro Administration has taken swift action to defend Pennsylvania farmers against the federal government's unlawful termination of the $13 million Local Food Purchasing Assistance Program.

Statistics:

  • Pennsylvania's agriculture sector contributes $132 billion annually to the economy.
  • The sector supports nearly 600,000 jobs in the Commonwealth.
  • Over $61 million has been invested in the HPAI Recovery Fund to support poultry farmers.
  • 88 awardees from 45 counties have received support through the Agricultural Innovation Grant Program.
  • The Governor's first two budgets have delivered over $13.8 million annually for the PA Farm Bill.
  • Over $125 million has been set aside in state funding to preserve more than 415 farms and 35,000 acres of farmland.

Sources:

  • The Office of Governor Josh Shapiro (2025)
  • "Governor Shapiro Visits Penn State's Annual Ag Progress Days" (August 13, 2025)
  • "Delivering for Pennsylvania's Agricultural Economy" (shapirobudget.pa.gov)
  • "PA Farm Bill" (shapirobudget.pa.gov)

Read more