The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets (VAAFM) has opened applications for its Farm to School and Early Childhood Grant. The grant is available to licensed or registered early childhood education providers, K-12 public schools, supervisory unions, school districts, and independent schools that participate in federal child nutrition programs.
Applications are being accepted until October 29, 2025. Grants will range from $10,000 to $30,000 with no match requirement. Applicants will be notified about funding decisions in January 2026, and funded projects are expected to begin in March 2026.
According to the agency, the grant aims to help Vermont-based early childhood providers and schools develop or strengthen farm to school or farm to early childhood programs. These programs are intended to integrate activities across the classroom, cafeteria, and community.
An optional applicant webinar is scheduled for Thursday, October 2 from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM for those interested in learning more about the application process.
Full details on eligibility criteria and updates can be found on the FY26 Farm to School and Early Childhood Grant webpage.
The Farm to School and Early Childhood Grant is part of a series of new funding opportunities under the Farm to Institution Program for Fiscal Year 2026. Information about other grants—including Local Food for Schools and Child Care grants—is available at the Farm to Institution webpage.
The Farm to Institution Program was established through the Rozo Mclaughlin Farm-to-School Program Act of 2006 and receives annual funding from the Vermont State Legislature. Since its inception in 2007, VAAFM has awarded a total of 339 farm to school grants amounting to $2.4 million in state funds distributed among 158 schools or school districts as well as 160 early childhood education programs.
For questions regarding these grant opportunities, contact Gina Clithero at gina.clithero@vermont.gov or call 802-585-6225.
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