The bill establishes a Winery Co-marketing Grant Program under the Department of Agriculture, aimed at reimbursing New Jersey wineries for eligible marketing campaign costs. The program's goal is to enhance the ability of wineries to engage in co-marketing efforts that promote agricultural tourism and local businesses. Eligible applicants must hold a plenary or farm winery license and can apply for grants once annually, with funding available for marketing campaigns that involve partnerships with other wineries, restaurants, accommodations, roadside markets selling Jersey Fresh products, or agricultural tourism farms. Grants can be awarded up to $25,000, with reimbursement rates varying based on the number of entities involved in the marketing campaign.
Additionally, the bill mandates the Secretary of Agriculture to submit annual reports to the Governor and Legislature regarding the program's implementation and effectiveness. These reports must include details on the number and dollar amount of grants awarded, recommendations for the program's continuation, and information on unexpended funds. The bill appropriates $500,000 from the General Fund to finance the reimbursement grants under this program, which will take effect four months after enactment.