Farm to Institution Market Development Grants
Forecasted
Farm to Institution Market Development Grants support Vermont farms and food producers through projects that build institutional sales relationships and increase local food purchasing in Vermont institutions.
Funder: Vermont Agency of Agriculture Food and Markets
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $10,000–$30,000 per award; $30,000 total available; two-year spending period
Summary: Supports market development projects that expand Vermont farms’ institutional sales and increase local food purchasing in Vermont institutions.
Key Information: Applicants must demonstrate matching funds equal to 25% of the grant award, using cash, in-kind contributions, or both.
Description
The Vermont Agency of Agriculture Food and Markets administers this competitive grant to improve local food producers’ access to Vermont institutional markets. It supports projects connecting producers with colleges and universities, schools, early childhood education facilities, correctional facilities, nursing homes, hospitals, and healthcare providers. The goal is to expand market opportunities for Vermont farms while increasing the amount of local food purchased and served in institutions.
The program emphasizes collaboration, new or deeper sales relationships, and values-based procurement for institutions serving meals to Vermont residents. Competitive proposals demonstrate a high likelihood of sustained partnerships between Vermont farms and institutions. Formerly the Local Food Market Development Grant, the program shifted its focus to institutional market development in 2023.
