RD476 - Report on the Establishment of the Virginia Farm Business Development Program – November 15, 2016


Executive Summary:
Item 91 of the 2016 Appropriations Act establishes the Virginia Farm Business Development Program and requires the program to “provide farmers and small agribusinesses that qualify under guidelines as established by the [Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS)] with grants not to exceed $5,000 to assist with business planning, market research, and related activities.” The legislation calls on VDACS to establish guidelines that determine grant eligibility, provide education, and administer the program. The Virginia Farm Business Development Program began accepting applications November 1, 2016, after hiring staff, conducting industry outreach, and establishing program guidelines.