Farm to Institution Market Development Grants (FTIMD)

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.

The following entities are eligible to apply for this competitive grant:

• Vermont farm or food businesses

• Vermont producer groups or associations

• Supply chain facilitators (non-profits, economic development authorities, food hubs, etc.)

The minimum award for this grant program is $10,000 and the maximum award is $30,000. All applicants must demonstrate 25% of the total grant award in matching funds; the matching funds requirement can be met with cash, in-kind, or a combination of both.

Applications for the FY27 Farm to Institution Market Development Grant are now open. Applications opened September 14, 2026. Stay tuned for updates by signing up for the Ag Bulletin. To apply when open: read the Request for Applications, view the applicant webinar, register in WebGrants, and complete your application in WebGrants. The application deadline is Monday, October 26, 2026 at 1:59 PM. Apply via WebGrants at agriculturegrants.vermont.gov. Register in WebGrants at least two business days before the deadline.