Business Growth

Learn about Track B: Plant Industry Career Development funding, including eligibility, application requirements, and tips for preparing a strong submission. Applications are due October 5.

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.

Agritourism opportunities that lavender production offers for farms, an overview of production and harvest, budgets for establishment, planting, and mature production of two varieties

Explore how one farm diversified from cooperative milk sales to direct-to-consumer marketing, agritourism, and community-focused agriculture.

Women have always been a vital part of Pennsylvania agriculture, and the International Year of the Woman Farmer provides an opportunity to highlight their representation.

This article outlines how value‑added dairy businesses can grow their product lines by aligning market demand, brand fit, and resources while maintaining quality, efficiency, and customer trust.

Consumers have multiple payment method options when making online purchases. For businesses implementing e-commerce, it's important to understand the forms of payment that consumers use and prefer for online purchasing.

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.

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

Applying knowledge and structure to your pricing can give you the sales advantage.

This article provides an overview of issues agricultural operators in Pennsylvania must consider if they would like to start or expand an agritourism operation.

Would you like to offer farm stays on your farm but don't have the infrastructure? This article provides an overview of what to consider when offering low-infrastructure farm stays.

Farmers and agritourism operators with dark skies can diversify their offerings and increase revenue by providing astrotourism opportunities.

Beef cattle is a major industry in Pennsylvania with over 25,000 farms.

This guide highlights a selection of AI tools that have been explored or piloted by the Clearinghouse for Military Family Readiness at Penn State to better understand how these technologies can support our day-to-day work.

This article guides you through making changes to your agritourism business.

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

Explore how forming an LLC can protect your farm, ease transitions, and support new ventures—ideal for retiring, beginning, or diversifying farmers and ag-based business owners.

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.

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.