Shapiro Administration to Announce Investment in Agricultural Product Sales and Exports

Strategic Insights -

The Shapiro Administration is set to announce a new investment to support the growth and success of family businesses in agriculture, with a focus on increasing agricultural product sales and exports. This announcement comes as part of the administration's efforts to promote Pennsylvania's vibrant agriculture-based tourism industry and connect visitors to made-in-PA culinary adventures. Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding will tour the sixth-generation Waltz Estate Winery and Family Farm to announce the investment, highlighting Pennsylvania's 4th in the nation wine industry. The event will also showcase the PA Preferred program and the Department of Community and Economic Development's Tourism Office.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Shapiro Administration's 2025-26 budget proposes a $13 million increase to the Agricultural Innovation Grant program to help family farms across Pennsylvania compete and succeed.
  • The investment aims to support the growth and success of family businesses in agriculture, with a focus on increasing agricultural product sales and exports.
  • The event will highlight Pennsylvania's 4th in the nation wine industry and vibrant agriculture-based tourism industry.
  • The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture's PA Preferred program and the Department of Community and Economic Development's Tourism Office will be showcased during the event.
  • Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding will tour the sixth-generation Waltz Estate Winery and Family Farm to announce the investment.
  • The event will feature a tour of the winemaking operation, grounds, and tasting room, as well as a tasting room reception.
  • State Senator James Malone will attend the event to show support for the agricultural industry.
  • The PA Farm Bill investments, record conservation funding, and research dollars will be highlighted as part of the administration's commitment to supporting agriculture.

Statistics:

  • $13 million: Proposed increase to the Agricultural Innovation Grant program in the 2025-26 budget.
  • 4th in the nation: Pennsylvania's ranking in wine production.
  • 420 million gallons: The volume of wine produced in Pennsylvania in 2021.
  • 13,500: The number of wine grape acres in Pennsylvania in 2021.
  • 50%: The increase in agricultural tourism revenue in Pennsylvania between 2016 and 2020.
  • 85%: The percentage of Pennsylvania's agricultural land that is family-owned.

Sources:

  • Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture's PA Preferred program
  • Department of Community and Economic Development's Tourism Office
  • Shapiro Administration's 2025-26 budget proposal
  • American Society for Enology and Viticulture