Scratch Cooking in Schools Pilot
Scratch Cooking in Schools Pilot supports Michigan school districts with kitchen equipment, infrastructure, and implementation support to expand scratch cooking and local food purchasing.
Funder: Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Due Dates: November 24, 2026 (Letter of intent) | January 5, 2027 (Application accessibility requests) | January 22, 2027 (Invited full applications)
Funding Amounts: Up to $100,000 per LEA, depending on package; April 1, 2027–September 30, 2028
Summary: Supports Michigan school districts in expanding scratch cooking and local food purchasing through equipment, infrastructure, supplies, and implementation support.
Key Information: Only Michigan Local Education Agencies already purchasing and serving Michigan-grown or Michigan-produced foods are eligible.
Description
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) administers this Farm to Family pilot to expand scratch cooking using local foods in Michigan schools. Funding supports kitchen equipment, infrastructure, supplies, training, and administrative costs. The pilot will assess effects on menu nutrition, meal participation, labor costs, and local food purchasing.
Applicants choose one of six packages addressing produce preparation, blending, batch cooking, protein preparation, partnerships, or alternative and combined approaches. Scratch cooking can include semi-scratch approaches, such as using precut frozen produce or preparing homemade sauces with precooked meats. Every grantee receives training, guidance, and technical assistance alongside funding.
