Lancaster County craft brewer gains grant from Shapiro Administration

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A Lancaster County craft brewer is among nine Pennsylvania grant recipients as part of the Shapiro Administration‘s $1.36 million investment to boost growth in the commonwealth’s craft brewing industry.

Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding announced $1,363,416 in grants to boost sales, production, and quality of Pennsylvania craft beer and brewed beverages. Funding is supporting festivals, beer trails, and promotions celebrating Pennsylvania’s nation-leading craft brewing industry and its innovative people and products.

“Pennsylvania’s craft brewing industry has seen phenomenal growth for the past decade and a half,” Redding said in a statement. “That growth is a product not only of uniquely local Pennsylvania flavors and the craftsmanship of expert brewmasters, but of the opportunities craft breweries offer for experiencing local culture across our beautiful state. Pennsylvania small-business ingenuity and vision is why we are a national leader, and why the Shapiro Administration is investing in keeping Pennsylvania agriculture at the top.”

The Lancaster County Brewers Guild gained a $54,820 grant to expand the guild’s Ale Trail passport program. Funding will also be used to partner with local museums to showcase the county’s brewing history for America’s 250th anniversary.

Pennsylvania’s craft brewing industry ranks second nationally in economic impact at $4.887 billion in 2025, in the number of craft breweries at 538, and in barrels produced annually at more than 1.9 billion, according to the Brewers Association.

“Some of the best Pennsylvania stories start with a locally crafted beer,” said Kaitie Burger, executive director of Visit PA. “Across the commonwealth, our breweries invite visitors to slow down, meet the people behind the pint and discover the character of a place in a way that feels genuine and memorable.

“From neighborhood taprooms to destination breweries, these experiences offer more than a great pour — they create opportunities to connect with local communities, explore new corners of Pennsylvania and experience the authentic spirit that makes Pennsylvania special. It’s the kind of trip that turns first-time visitors into return travelers, one pint and one unforgettable stop at a time,” added Burger.

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s Malt and Brewed Beverage Industry Promotion Board selected the following projects for funding through the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB). Through $3 million in annual grant funding and shelf space in every Pennsylvania Fine Wine & Good Spirits store, the PLCB helps local businesses grow, innovate and reach customers statewide.

Statewide grants went to PA Brews ($663,510), Poured in PA ($133,200), and Brewer’s Association ($187,500), while brewers in Allegheny, Bucks, and Erie counties also gained grants.