The City of Virginia Beach is matching an Agriculture and Forestry Industries Development (AFID) Infrastructure grant, administered by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) to support Creekmore’s Place plan to expand their farm-to-table operation at 2709 Indian River Road. The award was recently announced as part of a statewide funding round by the Office of the Governor of Virginia.
Virginia Beach has awarded a matching grant to the state’s $24,249 AFID grant funding so Creekmore’s Place can construct a kitchen with equipment to wash, package, and prepare locally grown produce for resale. The funds will directly support Creekmore’s Place's ability to increase food processing, food access programs, and community development and farm-to-table education initiatives.
“Creekmore’s Place has been an iconic farm stand at the Virginia Beach Farmers Market for 50 years. Many consider this a place where you shopped with your grandmother, and now you bring your grandchildren to shop with you,” said David Trimmer, City of Virginia Beach, director of Agriculture. “The AFID grant will help the Mosley’s to continue to grow by adding further improvements which will aid in keeping the farm in the family for generations to come.”
“Agriculture remains a key driver of Virginia Beach’s economy, with an annual local economic impact exceeding $177 million as of 2025,” said Emily Archer, City of Virginia Beach, director of Economic Development. “Virginia Beach Economic Development (VBED) recognizes the importance of advancing agricultural infrastructure, supporting farm viability, and helping small businesses grow. We’re thrilled to facilitate projects like Creekmore’s Place, through state partnerships, to strengthen local food systems and support the long-term viability of Virginia Beach’s farming community.”
The AFID Infrastructure Grant Program is a competitive statewide initiative that awards reimbursable grants up to $50,000 for capital projects at new and existing food hubs, farmers markets, commercial kitchens, and other value-added facilities, such as those used for processing or other Virginia-grown products.
“Thank you Virginia Beach and the state for this funding. You are not just helping to build a kitchen but also a way for people to learn, cook, and thrive, using fresh, locally grown produce,” said Creekmore’s Place owners Sharon and Dion Mosley.
Creekmore’s Place is a multi-generational, family-owned farm that has operated since 1964 on a three-acre property along Indian River Road. As one of the original vendors at the Virginia Beach Farmers Market, the farm – owned by Sharon and Dion Mosley – continues to serve the community by producing seasonal fruits and vegetables and value-added products such as preserves and syrups. The Farmers Market remains a critical part of Virginia Beach’s local food system, supporting agricultural entrepreneurs and expanding access to Virginia-grown foods.
For more information on agriculture in Virginia Beach, please visit https://agriculture.virginiabeach.gov/ .
About Virginia Beach Economic Development
Virginia Beach Economic Development (VBED) supports business growth, attracts new investment, and advances a diverse, resilient economy in Virginia Beach. Focused on key industries such as defense, technology, advanced manufacturing, energy, and tourism, VBED connects companies to the resources, infrastructure, and talent needed to succeed. With global connectivity and a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem, Virginia Beach is a place where businesses can grow and compete.