The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has officially opened the application window for Round Three (2026-2027) of the Agricultural Innovation Grant Program. With an additional $10 million in funding secured for this cycle, this program helps farmers and agricultural businesses implement new technologies, conservation practices, and renewable energy innovations. The deadline to submit an application is September 23, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
Eligibility & Eligible Projects
This reimbursement grant is open to a variety of agricultural stakeholders, including farmers with anticipated sales over $2,000 per year, processors with over $10,000 in expected sales, and technical assistance providers.
Funding is specifically geared toward projects that address modern environmental and sustainability goals. Applicants can seek reimbursement for implementing innovations that produce energy from agricultural sources (like manure, biomass, or food waste), provide low-carbon or no-carbon energy, improve water quality, or address solid waste and odor concerns.
Funding Opportunities
The program operates as a reimbursement grant, requiring a percentage of non-state matching funds. Applicants can apply under three distinct categories:
| Grant Category |
Funding Range |
Match Required |
Project Purpose |
| Innovation Planning |
$7,500 – $50,000 |
30% |
Develop a strategic innovation plan for a specific business or geographic area. |
| Onsite Project |
$5,000 – $200,000 |
50% |
Implement innovative practices or technologies on an individual farm or property. |
| Regional Impact |
$100,000 – $2,000,000 |
50% |
Address challenges or promote efficiencies that impact multiple agricultural businesses. |
How EMAP Can Help
Implementing these innovative technologies — especially those involving manure digesters, biomass energy production, or solid waste management — often triggers specific environmental regulatory requirements. If your proposed project requires new air quality permits, waste management approvals, or water quality compliance strategies, you don’t have to navigate the PA DEP regulations alone.
As a specialized service housed within the Pennsylvania Small Business Development Center (SBDC), EMAP provides free, confidential technical assistance to help your small, agricultural business understand its compliance obligations before, during, and after your grant project is implemented.
Ready to Apply?
