State Senator Dan Laughlin is applauding a major round of federal funding headed to farms and food producers in northwestern Pennsylvania.

More than $2 million in grants will help expand local food systems and support economic development across the region.

The money comes from the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) program, a $24 million statewide initiative launched by the Shapiro administration in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The program was first announced at the 2024 Pennsylvania Farm Show and is aimed at boosting capacity, creating jobs, and connecting local producers to new markets.

“This is a major win for our local farmers, processors, and food businesses,” said Laughlin. “These investments will help working families grow their operations, expand distribution, and meet the increasing demand for fresh, local products. It’s about fairness and opportunity.”

The RFSI program offers two types of funding: infrastructure grants that fund system-wide improvements and equipment-only grants for producers to upgrade tools and technology.

Several producers and cooperatives in Laughlin’s district are among the award recipients:

   •Farmer’s Kitchen — $1 million to build a facility for organic frozen potato products, opening new market opportunities for regional growers.

   •Welch Foods Cooperative — $750,000 to modernize refrigeration systems, supporting 200 grower-owners and increasing grape juice and spread production.

   •Edinboro Market — $99,681 to expand kitchen, storage, and delivery capabilities.

   •Manison Farms — $100,000 for new equipment to improve grape aggregation and boost efficiency.

   •Mason Farms — $65,500 to improve post-harvest handling and reduce contamination risk.

   •Robert Mazza Inc. — $97,500 to upgrade sparkling wine processing and packaging.

   •Sisters of St. Joseph Neighborhood Network — $64,019 to enhance farmers market infrastructure with cold storage and processing stations.

“These investments reflect a smart, targeted approach to supporting the agriculture industry and strengthening the middle of the food supply chain,” Laughlin said. “I’ll continue to advocate for resources that grow our regional economy and create long-term opportunities for Pennsylvania producers.”

More information and a full list of statewide grant recipients are available at agriculture.pa.gov.