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AgConnect becomes formal public–private partner with Chester County; programs target workforce and market access
Summary
AgConnect, a county public–private agricultural initiative, presented a progress update on workforce development, farm supports and public outreach. Presenters said the program provided training reimbursements, farm-to-child-care shares and youth career experiences during the last year.
AgConnect, the county's agriculture-focused public–private partnership, outlined expanded programming and community outreach during a county spotlight presentation at the Oct. 8 Chester County commissioners meeting.
Jordan Peek, manager of AgConnect, and Melissa Harrop, communications coordinator, said AgConnect formally partnered with Chester County in 2024 and rebranded to expand outreach. The initiative operates with an executive advisory committee and four action teams. Peek said AgWorks focuses on workforce development and reported nearly $39,000 in training reimbursements to 62 agricultural employees in the past year and support for apprenticeships and youth career-pathway exposure.
Speakers described a program that provided weekly community-supported agriculture shares to 124 daycare teachers through a food-dignity project in childcare settings, field trips for 61 students and an Ag-focused after-school program at Phoenixville Middle School. AgConnect staff also said 392 children participated in Ag Literacy Week with support from eight area farms.
Financial supports include partnerships with the Chester County Economic Development Council and the Chester County Industrial Development Authority for next-generation farmer loans, plus support for grant applications tied to the county's agricultural economic development strategic plan. AgConnect staff said the group has launched a refreshed website, a farm guide and a Chester County Farmers Market Trail and encouraged farms and agribusinesses to apply for program assistance.
"We want to help agriculture thrive and grow and ensure that agriculture remains a leading economic sector now and in the future," Peek said.
AgConnect listed upcoming public appearances, including a presence at the Good Food Fest Nov. 2 at the Kimberton Fairgrounds, and invited producers and community partners to engage with its programs and online resources at goagconnect.org.
