Virginia awards $507,000 in grants for food infrastructure

Governor Abigail Spanberger has announced more than $507,000 in Agriculture and Forestry Industries Development (AFID) Fund Infrastructure Grants to 14 Virginia localities. The funding aims to strengthen local food systems, bridge supply chain gaps, and expand market access for small and mid-size producers.

Supported projects include the development of animal and wood product processing facilities, shared-use canneries, commercial kitchens, farmers markets, and creamery expansions. One notable recipient is Northampton County, which received $50,000 to support the Pearl Market, a shared-use food hub and aquaculture processing facility. This grant will fund infrastructure improvements, refrigeration systems, and food-processing equipment to help producers meet health and safety requirements.

Administered by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the program seeks to spur economic development and job creation in rural areas. Officials noted that improving infrastructure such as cold storage and transportation networks can help minimize food waste, reduce emissions, and lower consumer costs.