Buy Local
The Buy Local grant from the Kentucky Department of Agriculture incentivizes Kentucky restaurants to purchase and promote locally grown foods, supporting research and development of local food systems.
Funder: Kentucky Department of Agriculture
Due Dates: October 31, 2025 | January 31, 2026 | April 30, 2026 | July 31, 2026 | October 31, 2026 | January 31, 2027
Funding Amounts: Up to $8,000 per year and $36,000 lifetime per participant (restaurants/food service); 15% reimbursement on eligible purchases; $1,250 per quarter for distributors.
Summary: Supports Kentucky restaurants and food service businesses in sourcing and promoting local foods from Kentucky farmers through reimbursement incentives.
Key Information: Applicants must be Kentucky Proud members and only purchases after program approval are eligible for reimbursement.
Description
The Buy Local program, administered by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, incentivizes Kentucky restaurants and food service operations to purchase and promote locally sourced foods from Kentucky Proud members. The program aims to strengthen the connection between local producers and food service businesses, increase the market for Kentucky-grown agricultural products, and support the livelihoods of Kentucky farmers. Participants can receive reimbursements for a portion of the cost of eligible food purchases, helping to offset expenses and encourage ongoing support for local agriculture.
