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The Office of Agriculture and Forestry Development Services promotes economic development within Virginia‘s agriculture sector. This office serves as the first point of contact for agriculture and forestry businesses considering locating in Virginia or expanding within the state. Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) project managers are available to assist with your agribusiness needs and enhance your opportunities for success in the Commonwealth. These experienced professionals can contribute at every stage, from business concept and site selection to the grand opening celebration. The VDACS team excels at helping entrepreneurs and expanding agribusiness companies navigate local, state and federal business assistance resources, as well as industry-specific partnerships.

Services

• Relocate or Expand an Agribusiness
• Start a New Agribusiness
• Start a farm

Governor’s Agriculture & Forestry Industries Development (AFID) Fund

• AFID Facility Grants: For new or expanding agriculture or forestry businesses
• AFID Planning Grants: For local agriculture or forestry-based economic development programs

Additional Resources & Partners

• Virginia Economic Development Partnership
• Virginia Agribusiness Council
• Virginia Agricultural Development Officers Group
• Virginia Cooperative Extension
• Virginia Farm Bureau Federation
• Virginia Food Access Investment Fund Grants: For new or expanding food retailers that address food access issues in the Commonwealth.
• Virginia Foundation for Agriculture, Innovation and Rural Sustainability
• USDA Rural Development (Virginia)
• USDA Farm Service Agency (Virginia)
• VDACS Office of Farmland Preservation
• Specialty Crop Competitive Grant Program

Stephen Versen, Manager
804.786.6911
stephen.versen@vdacs.virginia.gov

Michele Bridges, Project Manager
540.271.7201
michele.bridges@vdacs.virginia.gov

Emily Flippo, Project Manager
804.225.4535
emily.flippo@vdacs.virginia.gov