HARRISBURG, PA. — The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA) is beginning a new round of funding totaling $500,000 for small meat and poultry processors in the state.

On July 1, Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding announced the opening of the 2024-2025 Very Small Meat and Poultry Processor Reimbursement Grant Program. The program supports the expansion of current and future meat and poultry processing operations across Pennsylvania. Funding goes toward costs associated with opening or expanding operations or obtaining grant of inspection from the USDA’s Food Safety Inspection Service.

“Pennsylvanians are seeking out local farms more than ever, and this grant directly addresses that desire by helping small meat and poultry processors meet the growing demand for local foods,” Redding said. “By investing in local agriculture, the Shapiro administration is not only helping farmers and processors stay competitive, we’re shortening supply chains, reducing costs and ensuring a more reliable, sustainable food source for our Commonwealth.”

The PDA is accepting applications through Aug. 2. The maximum grant amount to be allotted is $100,000.

Since 2019, Pennsylvania has supported the expansion of 47 small meat and poultry businesses, investing more than $2.7 million through Very Small Meat and Poultry Processor Grants.