Today, Governor Josh Shapiro visited start-up company Folkland Foods, located in Waterford, Erie County, to announce a $3 million Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) investment in the company. This funding will support a significant capital expansion that will enable Folkland's parent company Troyer, Inc. — the only organic potato supplier on the East Coast — to expand its operations, transition more acreage to organic farming, and begin producing a range of potato products, creating up to 50 new local jobs in the region over the first three years.
Owned and operated by the Troyer family, who have been a mainstay in northwestern Pennsylvania's potato farming industry for three generations, Folkland Foods is poised to build on its legacy of agricultural success and pioneering role in organic farming.
"I'm excited to announce this $3 million investment in Folkland Foods, a company that is leading the way in organic farming and sustainable practices, built on hard work and know-how developed right here in Pennsylvania. This expansion will create 50 new, good-paying jobs and significantly boost the local economy in Erie County, all while reinforcing Pennsylvania's reputation as a leader in agriculture and food production," said Governor Shapiro. "My Administration is committed to making targeted investments like this one that benefit our farmers, strengthen rural economies, and ensure Pennsylvania remains at the forefront of agricultural innovation and production for generations to come."
"Folkland's vision is to offer products that have minimal ingredients, so consumers know exactly what is in the product," said Brian Garlick, Folkland's Chief Operating Officer and longtime Troyer, Inc. employee. "All simple ingredients that you would find in your cupboards at home. Full ingredient transparency is hard to find today and eliminating pesticides used in conventional farming practices is the first step in providing a 'better-for-you' product. One thing I can say that I've learned over the last year working with the third-generation of Troyer farmers: the apple hasn't fallen far from the tree. I see the same commitment to community, to family, and an unwavering commitment to their employees. I'm thrilled to be part of Folkland and excited to work side-by-side with the Troyer family again."
The Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) is a Commonwealth reimbursement grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the design, acquisition, and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. RACP projects have a significant impact on the region's economy, generating employment and boosting local tax revenues. RACP helps fund vital regional projects, like Folkland Foods' expansion, that drive local economies and create jobs.
For more information:
DCED
Tel: +1 866 466 3972
Email: [email protected]
www.dced.pa.gov