Funds projects that connect schools with local growers — aggregation, producer training, school gardens, and procurement planning. Producers can apply directly or as part of a school partnership.
The eligibility and application details below are general guidance for this kind of program, not text copied from the funder. The facts above — who runs it, how much, and when it closes — are hand-checked. Always confirm specifics on the official page.
Am I eligible?
Open nationwide — check for state-level ranking or set-asides
Individual farmers, ranchers, and farm businesses may apply
Non-profits, co-ops, and community organizations may apply
Tribes, tribal producers, and tribal enterprises are eligible
Active SAM.gov registration and UEI number required before award
Must be in compliance with USDA/federal program rules (AGI limits, conservation compliance)
Matching funds or in-kind contribution may be requested
How to apply
1Read the current program page or notice of funding to confirm this cycle's rules
2Contact USDA Food and Nutrition Service before writing — most funders will tell you if you are a fit
3Register in SAM.gov and get a UEI (this can take 2–4 weeks — start early)
4Draft the narrative, budget, and any required letters of support
5Submit before the posted deadline; late applications are not accepted
6Sign the award agreement and track spending for reporting
What you'll need
Farm or business name, address, and tax ID / EIN
SAM.gov UEI number and active registration
Project description and itemized budget
Maps, photos, or quotes for anything you plan to build or buy
Proof of land ownership or a lease covering the project period
Organizational documents (501(c)(3) letter, board list) if applying as a non-profit
Timeline & contact
Expect 2–6 months from deadline to award notice, plus contracting time
Get help: USDA Food and Nutrition Service — your local USDA Service Center or state office can walk you through it
Ready to apply?
Applications go through USDA Food and Nutrition Service, not through this site. Open the official page below for eligibility rules, forms, and contacts. For federal programs it's worth calling your local USDA Service Center or Cooperative Extension office first — they help with paperwork for free and know what your county actually funds.
Rolling vendor enrollment through state administrators
Not a grant you apply for directly — states and tribes use these funds to buy food from local, underserved producers for food banks and pantries. Getting on your state's vendor list can be a reliable wholesale outlet.
Open nationwide — check for state-level ranking or set-asides
Individual farmers, ranchers, and farm businesses may apply
Free or subsidized EBT equipment and authorization support so direct-market growers can accept SNAP — often paired with state or nonprofit dollar-matching programs that raise average sales.
Open nationwide — check for state-level ranking or set-asides
Individual farmers, ranchers, and farm businesses may apply