Vermont’s agriculture, forestry, food, beverage, and fiber sectors are encouraged to apply for Service Provider & Producer Association Grants designed to bolster business endeavors.
With a total funding pool of up to $370,000, grants will range from $10,000 to $25,000 for regional pilot projects and $25,000 to $75,000 for initiatives with statewide impact. Importantly, no matching funds are required, and the grant period will extend from March 2025 to June 2026.
Eligibility Criteria
This grant opportunity is available to two groups:
- Service Providers – Organizations providing business support to Vermont’s agriculture and forestry sectors, including areas such as market development, business planning, and financial guidance.
- Producer Associations – Trade organizations that represent and promote Vermont products in agriculture, food, beverage, forestry, or fiber. These associations can seek grants to enhance their operations or services for their members.
Eligible service provider projects may encompass support in market development, crisis response initiatives, business succession planning, and workforce enhancement. Projects from producer associations could also center on organizational growth, including leadership training, governance, and strengthening membership outreach.
Applicants must be located in Vermont or focus projects relevant to the state’s working landscape. Out-of-state applicants should confirm their eligibility with the program’s contact.
Important Dates and Deadlines
- September 20, 2024: Grant application request released; submission begins.
- September 24, 2024 (11 a.m. – 12 p.m.): Virtual applicant webinar and Q&A (registration required).
- November 7, 2024 (11:59 p.m.): Application submission deadline.
- Early January 2025: Notification to applicants regarding funding decisions.
- January 2025: Submission of documentation from successful grantees.
- February/March 2025: Projects may commence.
For additional information, interested applicants can contact the program office directly.
