Chester County's focus on the importance of agriculture and agriculture economic development has led to a strategic restructuring and partnership with the Chester County Economic Development Council (CCEDC). AgConnect, the Next Generation Industry Partnership originally introduced and managed by the CCEDC, has broadened its scope to not only support agricultural producers across the region, but also to provide resources and educational opportunities to Chester County consumers.

A key part of the transition will see AgConnect leading the implementation of the Chester County Agricultural Economic Development Strategic Plan, aimed at fostering growth and sustainability in the county's agricultural sector.

Since 1989, Chester County government has promoted the economic impact and excellence of the local farming industry through the Chester County Agricultural Development Council (Ag Council). The Ag Council ran several agricultural programs, initiatives, and resources - such as connecting agricultural business owners with training and financing - as well as produced the annual "Chester County Farm Product Guide" and awarded both the Farmer of the Year and Distinguished Service to Agriculture awards. In 2022, based on a plan developed and recommended by the Ag Council, the county commissioners adopted an Agricultural Economic Development Strategic Plan.

The AgConnect restructuring will introduce a newly established AgConnect Advisory Executive Committee, designed to steer the initiative and set strategic priorities. The 11-person committee includes chairpersons from each of four action teams, three agriculture industry leaders appointed by the Chester County commissioners, three agriculture employers appointed by the CCEDC, and one staff member from the County Commissioners' Office. This diverse and experienced committee will oversee the development and execution of AgConnect's workplan, ensuring alignment with the county's strategic objectives.

To address various aspects of agricultural development, four action teams have been formed. AgConnect Workforce Development focuses on regional agricultural workforce development; AgConnect Finance is dedicated to providing farm loan opportunities and financial support; AgConnect Chester County is tasked with implementing the Agricultural Economic Development Plan for the county; and AgConnect Promotions is responsible for promoting the agricultural industry, coordinating the Farm Guide, and organizing the Chester County Farmer of the Year ceremony.

AgConnect will keep the community updated on the progress of the initiative through its new website and social media platforms, as well as a monthly newsletter. Regular updates will provide insights into the actions being taken to realize the goals of the Agricultural Economic Development Strategic Plan.

For more information, visit http://www.go-agconnect.org or http://www.facebook.com/agconnectpa.