Youngkin Unveils Exciting Grants to Boost Local Food Production: How Communities Can Benefit!

Support for Local Food Production Projects

PUBLISHED ON March 6, 2025

Governor Glenn Youngkin has announced exciting news! A total of $264,000 in matching grants will support six projects designed to boost local food production and sustainable agriculture in Virginia. These grants aim to improve community infrastructure, making fresh, locally grown food more accessible.

“These awards help communities find creative ways to provide healthy food options,” said Governor Youngkin. “We’re glad to support those working hard to make a positive difference in the lives of Virginians.”

Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Matthew Lohr added, “Helping farmers and small food producers connect with their communities is vital. These grants not only support local income but also strengthen our economies and enhance access to fresh food.”

Here are the projects receiving funding:

• Farmers Market Weatherization Improvements
  Location: Town of Abingdon
  Amount: $50,000
  The Abingdon Farmers Market will receive upgrades to become a year-round facility. Improvements include enclosing the market, adding heating, and installing a two-bay sink, allowing the market to better serve local farmers and the community.
• Commissary Kitchen and Food Aggregator
  Location: Bath County
  Amount: $50,000
  The Village Kitchen will be established as a shared-use kitchen. This facility will support local farmers and food businesses by providing essential tools and resources, helping them grow without the high costs of individual kitchens.
• Farmers Market Expansion
  Location: Cumberland County
  Amount: $32,678
  The Luther P. Jackson Community Center farmers market will be upgraded with new flooring, lighting, and signage. This will help expand food options in an area with limited resources.
• SIP Seafood Market
  Location: City of Newport News
  Amount: $50,000
  The SIP Seafood Market will feature a commercial kitchen and a seafood retail space. Funds will cover essential equipment like ice machines and refrigeration units, supporting local seafood businesses.
• Winter Market Building
  Location: Town of Onancock
  Amount: $31,943
  A prefabricated building will be constructed for a winter market, allowing vendors to sell local products all year. This grant will cover various setup costs, ensuring a welcoming space for customers.
• Farm Stand Expansion
  Location: Prince William County
  Amount: $49,450
  Sunshine Honey Farm will transform its small farm stand into a brick-and-mortar market. The funding will help them purchase a building and necessary renovations to grow their offerings.

The AFID Infrastructure Grant program, created by the General Assembly in 2021, supports local governments in improving infrastructure for small-scale farmers. Each project can receive up to $50,000. Applications for the next funding round will open in spring.

For more details about the program, visit VDACS Virginia.

–Virginia Office of the Governor