National Pork Board School Menu Innovation Grant
The National Pork Board School Menu Innovation Grant funds research and piloting of new pork-based recipes in schools to improve menu variety and student engagement.
Funder: National Pork Board
Due Dates: September 30, 2026: Full application deadline — applications due 11:59 p.m. CT on September 30, 2026
Funding Amounts: $8,000 (Taste Test Grant) or $12,000 (Recipe Innovation Grant); ~10 school districts will be selected
Summary: Supports school districts in piloting and evaluating pork-based menu items to enhance school meal programs and student engagement.
Description
The National Pork Board School Menu Innovation Grant aims to assist school nutrition professionals in developing and piloting new pork menu items within school meal programs. Participating school districts receive funding, access to pork recipes compliant with USDA school meal standards, culinary training, technical assistance, and resources to conduct student taste tests and engagement activities. The program focuses on gathering student feedback to identify appealing pork menu concepts, sharing best practices nationally, and expanding high-quality protein options in schools. Approximately 10 school districts will be selected for the inaugural round.
