Local Food Program
The Local Food Program from the Colorado Department of Education funds K-12 schools to buy Colorado-grown foods, strengthening both school meals and local food systems.
Funder: Colorado Department of Education
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (Full application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: $15.4M+ distributed in 2026–27; award size varies by sponsor, based on meals served; minimum $3,000 per sponsor per year
Summary: Supports Colorado K-12 sponsors in purchasing and serving locally grown, raised, or processed food to strengthen school meal programs and local food systems.
Description
The Local Food Program, managed by the Colorado Department of Education (CDE), provides funding to eligible K-12 sponsors—including school districts, charter schools, residential childcare institutions, and facility schools—for the purchase of Colorado-grown, raised, or processed food products. This initiative aims to strengthen local food systems, improve nutrition in schools, and foster connections between schools and Colorado food producers, food hubs, and distributors. Funding supports transitioning to scratch cooking, menu planning with local ingredients, and building the capacity of small and medium-sized farms to participate in K-12 markets.
