Funding Your Project

National Farm to School Network logo.

 

Learn more about USDA Support for Farm to School & Early Childhood programs. Download this Funding Fact Sheet from the National Farm to School Network.

Banner photo by Sarah Webb.

There are many places to get funding for your farm to school project or program, and as the movement grows in support and strength, there are more opportunities to come.

Consider the local businesses and organizations in your community that may offer funding or grants for your program, too.

Here are a few opportunities to get you started. Click on the titles for expanded information:

Vermont Farm to School Grants

Since 2007 the Rozo McLaughlin Farm to School Grant Program has been awarding Vermont schools with funds to integrate local foods in school cafeterias, classrooms, and communities. The goals of the grant program are to encourage schools and school districts to serve food to Vermont students that is as fresh and nutritious as possible; maximize the use of fresh, locally grown, produced and processed foods; educate students about healthy eating habits through nutrition education, including using hands-on techniques to make the connections between farming and the foods that students consume; increase the size and stability of farmers’ direct sales market; and increase school meal participation by increasing the selection of foods available to students.

This grant program is made possible by collaboration between the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Department of Education, Department of Health, and Vermont FEED.

 

USDA Farm to School Grants

This grant program is given annually and helps eligible people and organizations implement farm to school programs.

Ben & Jerry's Foundation

The Ben & Jerry's Foundation awards about $1.8 million each year to organizations both in Vermont and the rest of the U.S. through four grant programs. 

Fuel Up to Play 60 Grants

Fuel Up to Play 60 is a nationwide competitive funding program to help K-12 schools jumpstart and sustain school wellness activities and initiatives. The program provides seed money—up to $4,000 per school—to help Fuel up to Play 60 educators make their schools a healthier place! 

New England Grassroots Environment Fund

NEGEF offers grants to small groups in the New England states who are focused on local, community-based, environmental initiatives.

Vermont Garden Network

Since 2012, VGN has funded more than 300 garden projects. Additionally, they keep a directory of state, regional, and national grant opportunities.