Farm Vitality Planning Grant Program

The Farm Vitality Planning Grant Program is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture as part of the Commonwealth’s broader strategy to strengthen the resilience and continuity of family farms across the state. This program helps agricultural operations prepare for future transitions, expansions, or structural changes by providing reimbursement funding for professional planning services. It is one of the core initiatives designed to sustain agricultural productivity, financial stability, and generational succession within Pennsylvania’s farming communities. The primary goal of the program is to enhance the long-term vitality and profitability of farms by funding business planning, succession and transition strategies, and feasibility assessments. It supports both existing farmers planning to pass operations to the next generation and new entrants seeking to take over or diversify existing operations. By financing expert assistance, the program ensures that agricultural enterprises can remain competitive and adaptable in a changing economic and environmental landscape. The grant reimburses up to 75 percent of approved project costs, with a ceiling of $15,000 per applicant. Eligible costs include services from agricultural professionals such as accountants, business consultants, attorneys, financial planners, and appraisers directly involved in developing business, transition, or succession plans. These services may include the preparation of balance sheets, cash flow statements, feasibility studies, and legal or financial documentation needed to restructure or transition ownership. Business software recommended by professionals, such as accounting tools, may also be covered. Ineligible expenses include capital improvements, land or equipment purchases, facility construction, conservation practices, and travel or meal costs. Applicants must submit proposals through the Pennsylvania Single Application for Assistance system. The application window opens on May 19, 2025, and remains open until all available funds are allocated. The Department of Agriculture will distribute up to $500,000 in total program funding for the 2024–2025 fiscal year. Eligible expenditures incurred after July 1, 2024, can be reimbursed if they are documented within an approved work plan and completed within two years of the grant agreement’s start date. This grant program is open to Pennsylvania farm owners and operators actively planning for business continuity or transition. Projects are evaluated based on their alignment with the program’s objectives, completeness of planning documentation, and the qualifications of the professional service providers engaged. Each approved grant reimburses costs only after successful completion and verification of the approved work plan. In-kind contributions do not count toward the applicant’s cost share. For assistance or clarification, applicants may contact Neil Imes at the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture via phone at 717-787-5539 or email at nimes@pa.gov. Supplemental materials, such as the Budget & Service Provider Summary Template (Excel) and the Step-by-Step Application Guide (PDF), are available on the official Commonwealth of Pennsylvania website.