The Farm to Institution Market Development Grant (formerly Local Food Market Development Grant) is intended to support market development opportunities for local food producers, with a focus on Vermont institutional markets. Funding is provided to help improve local producer access to, and engagement with, schools, hospitals, colleges, correctional facilities, and other local institutions.
Eligible proposals will increase institutional market opportunity for at least one Vermont farm business and increase the amount of local food purchased and served in Vermont institutions. Competitive proposals will focus on collaboration, developing new sales relationships or deepening existing sales relationships, and values-based procurement for institutions serving meals to Vermont residents. Competitive proposals will demonstrate high likelihood of long-term, sustained partnership between Vermont farms and Vermont institutions.
Examples of institutional markets:
- Colleges and universities
- Schools
- Early childhood education facilities
- Correctional facilities
- Nursing homes
- Hospitals and healthcare providers
The minimum award for this grant program is $10,000 and the maximum award is $30,000.
Application Deadline: October 26, 2026 at 1:59 PM.
Register for an optional applicant webinar for prospective grant applicants on Wednesday, September 30 at 10:00AM to learn more about the grant. Contact madison.berry@vermont.gov or 802-622-4626 with any questions about this grant.