Business Growth

Animal cuddling is an emerging agritourism trend that offers visitors a unique experience that promotes wellness, stress relief, and connection.

Proposals sought to address pest and disease threats and workforce development.

Learn to create and manage enterprise budgets for farm transitions, with key tips and resources to support profitable, well-planned new farm ventures.

Credit and debit cards were the top two payment instruments used by consumers in 2020 (Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco). Ag and food businesses that accept these payment instruments must ensure the security of the systems and data involved.

Hiring a co-packer can help farms launch value-added products without needing to invest in processing facilities and equipment. This guide outlines key benefits, questions to ask, and tips for building a successful partnership.

Augmented reality, blockchain, broadband, RFID, and connected digital devices may soon offer new opportunities to enhance efficiency and competitiveness.

The Center for Plant Excellence (CPE) is dedicated to advancing Pennsylvania’s plant industries by supporting research, fostering industry collaboration, and providing resources that drive sustainability and economic growth.

Help shape the future of Pennsylvania's plant industries through collaboration and research.

Safeguard expansion efforts by recognizing and addressing potential challenges that could impede the success of your value-added agriculture business.

Explore emerging technologies in food, agriculture, and natural systems through expert insights and interactive discussions in this free 1-hour webinar, part of the Harvesting Innovation series.

The best way to navigate cash flow crunches is to communicate, keep current on recordkeeping, and be prepared.

Penn State Extension's PA Farm Markets program has created a Retail Farm Market Development workbook for those who are considering starting a farm market or looking to improve an existing market.

Finding ways to diversify your income or extend your farming season can be an essential ingredient in ensuring that your business continues to thrive and be sustainable year after year.

Value-added agriculture offers important benefits for farmers interested in diversification of their farm operations. This article provides an overview of value-added agriculture and tips for getting started.

Discover growth strategies at this conference including Google, social media, AI marketing, farm funding, grants, retirement, legal tax tips, POS systems, finance apps.

Artificial intelligence (AI) tools have several possible applications within farm and ag business. This article discusses how AI tools operate, possible uses, limitations, considerations, and tips for using AI.

Use these tips to start sourcing local and regional produce at an auction.

Contracting with vendors to provide additional products or experiences is a way for agritourism operators to enhance the visitor experience; however, several issues should be fully considered prior to inviting a vendor to operate at their premises.

Are you ready to invest in planning for your farm? The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s Farm Vitality Grant Program will reimburse 75% of costs up to $11,250.

Gain vital knowledge about managing employee finances for your farm or food business, including controlling labor costs for sustainability. Make informed decisions to ensure success in your 2024 business endeavors.

Learn more about the essential role agriculture plays in bringing food, fiber, and more to your lives!

Shipping of dairy foods directly to consumers is on the rise as online purchases are increasing. This article covers essential packaging and shipping issues that dairy processors will need for success.

Well-maintained walking trails and picnicking opportunities on farmland allow for more agritourism opportunities.

This article discusses several agritourism opportunities that lavender production offers farms and provides an overview of production and harvest. Budgets for establishment, planting, and mature production of two varieties are also provided.

This article will overview the advantages and challenges that a farm, food or ag business owner may be facing when deciding whether to implement e-commerce.