Farm Vitality Planning Grant Program

The Farm Vitality Planning Grant Program, offered by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, is designed to support the long-term success and sustainability of the state’s agricultural sector. This initiative reflects the state's recognition of the pivotal role that family-owned and managed farms play in Pennsylvania’s economy and rural communities. Administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, the program provides targeted financial support to enable farm owners to engage professional services that can help plan for business continuity, generational transitions, and strategic expansions or diversification efforts. The purpose of the Farm Vitality Grant is to help farmers and agricultural operations develop comprehensive plans that improve overall farm resilience and profitability. The program supports various planning activities such as transitioning ownership and operations within or outside of the family, expanding business operations, diversifying production, and maintaining farm viability under conservation easements. Applicants can also use funds to assemble advisory teams including financial, legal, and technical experts to inform their strategic direction. The program provides reimbursement grants of up to $15,000, which cover up to 75% of the total eligible project costs. These funds must be used for services provided by agriculture professionals such as accountants, CPAs, business consultants, attorneys, appraisers, facilitators, and mediators. Eligible planning services include the creation of business plans, succession planning, feasibility studies, and financial documentation. Recommended business software, such as QuickBooks, is also eligible if advised by professionals. However, capital improvements and certain planning services such as nutrient management plans and property surveying are not covered. Funding for the 2024–2025 fiscal year is capped at $500,000 in total. Reimbursable costs must be incurred after July 1, 2024, and within two years of the signed grant agreement. However, only costs included in the approved work plan will be eligible for reimbursement. In-kind contributions from applicants will not be counted toward their share of the total project cost. Applications for this grant must be submitted online via the Single Application for Assistance system. The Department of Agriculture will begin accepting applications on May 19, 2025, and will continue to do so until funds are exhausted. Awards will be made on a rolling basis until funding is depleted, and applicants are encouraged to apply early due to the limited funds. There are no pre-application requirements such as a letter of intent or concept paper. For assistance or additional information, applicants can contact Neil Imes at the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. He can be reached via email at [email protected] or by phone at 717-787-5539. Supporting materials, such as a Budget & Service Provider Summary Template (Excel) and a Step-by-Step Application Guide (PDF), are available to assist applicants in preparing their submission. This program operates on an annual cycle and will likely continue to be available in future fiscal years.