Buckeye Reporter

Ohio's grape growers and winemakers now have the opportunity to receive additional support through the 2025 Vineyard Expansion Assistance Program (VEAP). This program is open to both new and existing vineyards in Ohio, allowing them to replace non-bearing vines or plant new ones. VEAP enables wineries and vineyards to invest in high-quality, high-value grapes grown onsite rather than purchasing from other states.

The program is an initiative of the Ohio Grape Industries Committee (OGIC), created to address the limited grape production within the state. Many local wineries, farmers markets, and retailers often rely on grapes from outside Ohio to meet their production needs. VEAP aims to provide a stable source of quality grapes grown locally.

"Ohio is recognized for the quality of our crops and grapes are no exception," said Ohio Department of Agriculture Director Brian Baldridge. "Our grape industry helps contribute $6.6 billion to our economy. Having access to this program will set up our grape growers for success for years to come."

Funding from VEAP will cover the cost of planting grape vines, with each grower eligible for up to $1,500 per half acre, capped at three acres or $9,000 total. Only Ohio growers can apply, and planting must occur in spring 2026. Applications must be submitted by June 27, 2025.

For application details, contact Christy Eckstein at Christy.Eckstein@agri.ohio.gov.

Ohio ranks as the seventh largest wine producer in the U.S., with nearly 1,500 acres of vineyards producing approximately 1.2 million gallons of wine annually. The state hosts 428 licensed wine manufacturers that provide over 40,000 full-time jobs.

VEAP is managed by OGIC, established in 1981 and partially operated through the Ohio Department of Agriculture.

Information from this article can be found here.