Agricultural Enterprise Center Feasibility Study

Agriculture is a proven economic driver and integral part of our region’s history.  Our small cities and rural towns and villages are known for their farmers’ markets, “foodie” culture, and as reputable farm-to-table restaurant destinations. The central Shenandoah Valley region spans seven counties, has over one million acres of farm land, and 6,312 working farms. The majority of farms are small to midsize (10-200 acres) and four of the top five agriculture producing counties in Virginia are located within this region.

To support our region's many agricultural businesses and entrepreneurs, the CSPDC applied and was awarded a grant in 2019 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture through their Local Food Promotion Program (LFPP) to conduct an Agricultural Enterprise Center Feasibility Study. Out of 215 applications to LFPP, this project was one of 42 that was awarded funds; it was the only project funded in Virginia. Combined with a GO Virginia Enhanced Capacity Building grant, these funds were used to determine the viability of a certified, commercial, shared-use Agricultural Enterprise Center located in the central Shenandoah Valley.

Timeline of the Feasibility Study