Farm to Institution Market Development Grants

The Farm to Institution Market Development Grant is administered by the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets (VAAFM) to improve market access for Vermont food producers within institutional settings. Originally launched in 2011 as the Vermont Local Food Market Development Grant Program, the initiative has since evolved to focus specifically on institutions such as schools, hospitals, correctional facilities, and universities. The 2026 cycle reaffirms this mission, directing resources toward the development of sustainable, values-driven relationships between local farms and institutional buyers that serve meals to Vermont residents. This competitive grant program is designed to increase the quantity and availability of Vermont-grown food within institutional channels. Eligible projects must demonstrate support for at least one Vermont farm business and result in an increase in local food procurement by Vermont institutions. Strong proposals will emphasize collaboration, market relationship development, and long-term sustainability. Successful applicants may include Vermont-based farm or food businesses, producer groups or associations, and nonprofit supply chain facilitators such as food hubs or economic development authorities. The total available funding for this round is $30,000, with individual grant awards ranging from $10,000 to $30,000. Applicants must provide a minimum 25% match of the grant request, which may be met through cash, in-kind contributions, or a combination. Eligible expenses include personnel, equipment, supplies, and stipends, while ineligible uses include land or vehicle purchases and costs incurred prior to the award notification. Grantees will have up to two years to complete their projects and submit deliverables. The submission process requires applicants to register and apply via the WebGrants system, with registrations taking up to two business days to process. Applications must be submitted no later than October 31, 2025, at 1:59 PM. Optional applicant webinars are available to provide support. Projects are expected to begin in January 2026 and conclude by January 29, 2028. Reporting will include interim and final performance reports submitted through WebGrants. Applications will be evaluated by a committee using a defined scoring rubric that considers market development goals, performance metrics, feasibility of the methodology, budget justification, and applicant experience. The process is competitive and both successful and unsuccessful applicants will be notified. Documentation such as certificates of insurance and IRS Form W-9 will be required from awarded applicants. VAAFM encourages potential applicants to review its business development resources and additional funding opportunities available to Vermont’s agricultural sector.

Focus on demonstrating long-term relationships between farms and institutions. Emphasize collaboration and values-based procurement. Highlight tracking and evaluation measures.