Vermont Opened Farm to School Grant Applications
The state has released $200,000 in funding to support local agriculture initiatives for children.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Organic Food
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The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets has launched the FY27 Farm to School and Early Childhood Grant program. The initiative provides funding to help schools and childcare providers strengthen connections between children and local food systems.
Why it matters
This grant program aims to foster deeper ties between young Vermonters and their local agricultural communities. By providing direct financial support, the state hopes to increase student access to fresh, locally sourced food.
The grant program offers $200,000 in total funding with individual awards ranging from $10,000 to $30,000. Recipients have 18 months to complete their projects and are not required to provide matching funds.
The players
Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
This state agency is responsible for overseeing the administration of agricultural programs and the promotion of local food systems across Vermont.
The details
Interested organizations must register with the state's WebGrants system, which requires up to two business days for processing, before submitting an application. Organizations currently managing an active FY26 grant are ineligible to apply for this new cycle.
Timeline
The Rozo McLaughlin Farm-to-School Program Act was passed in 2006.
A final virtual office hour session for applicants is scheduled for October 7, 2026.
Applications for the grant program close on October 21, 2026, at 1:59 p.m.
Roadmap
The current grant cycle serves as a practical implementation and funding mechanism for the foundational goals established by the Rozo McLaughlin Farm-to-School Program Act. This sustained investment illustrates the states long-term commitment to integrating local food education into school curricula.
Schools and early childhood providers can leverage these funds to overhaul meal programs or create new educational agricultural projects without the need for matching capital. Educators interested in applying should prioritize registration in the state portal early to account for processing delays.
The takeaway
This program empowers educational facilities to integrate local agriculture into their daily routines through accessible state-level funding. Providers should ensure their applications are finalized well before the October 21 deadline to allow for administrative processing time.
What happens next
Applicants must complete their submissions through the WebGrants system by the October 21, 2026, deadline to be eligible for FY27 funding.
Further reading
For additional context on food sourcing and local production, visit Vermont Organic Food.
More information
Find detailed program requirements and application instructions on the Vermont Agency of Agriculture grant information portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Mountain Times.
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