Onancock awarded funds from Governor Youngkin for Winter Market

The Town of Onancock is set to receive nearly $32,000 in state funding to establish a winter market, providing local farmers and food vendors with a year-round space to sell their products. The grant, awarded through the Governor’s Agriculture and Forestry Industries Development (AFID) Fund Infrastructure Grant program, is part of a broader initiative announced by Governor Glenn Youngkin to strengthen local food production and sustainable agriculture across Virginia.

The Onancock project is among six initiatives statewide receiving a total of $264,000 in competitive matching grants. The funding will be used to purchase and outfit a prefabricated building to house the market, with planned improvements including electrical hookups, HVAC installation, insulation, ramps, interior and exterior lighting, flooring, paint, signage, a commercial refrigerator, and point-of-sale equipment.

“This investment will give Onancock’s farmers and food vendors a dedicated space to sell their goods year-round, strengthening our local food system and economy,” said a release from the Governor’s office. “By supporting innovative community-driven projects like this, we’re ensuring more Virginians have access to fresh, locally grown food.”

The AFID Infrastructure Grant program, created by the General Assembly in 2021 and administered by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, provides funding to local governments to support small-scale farmers and food producers. The grants help expand market access, improve food distribution, and enhance economic opportunities in rural and urban communities alike.

In addition to Onancock, funding in this latest round of grants will support projects in Abingdon, Bath County, Cumberland County, Newport News, and Prince William County. Other initiatives include farmers market expansions, food aggregation hubs, and a seafood market.

“It’s essential that we help farmers and small food producers bring their products to consumers, particularly in their own communities,” said Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Matthew Lohr. “These grants not only boost farm income but also strengthen local economies and increase access to fresh food.”

Onancock Market Manager, Theresa VanDessel said, “We are blessed with a wonderful community of loyal patrons who have encouraged and supported this effort from the beginning. We are so grateful to Governor Youngkin for funding that will help make this project a reality!” 

Town Manager Matt Spuck commented, “The Farmers Market attracts thousands of people annually to our downtown area. This grant allows for growth and success and adds to the town’s vibrancy all year—the Town is thrilled for the Market.”

The AFID Infrastructure Grant program will open another round of applications in the spring, offering additional opportunities for communities to invest in their local food networks. More details about the program can be found at www.vdacs.virginia.gov.