Over $3 Million in Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure & Equipment-Only Grants Awarded in Vermont | Agency of Agriculture Food and Markets
Summary
This program targets two important segments of the Vermont food system; Infrastructure and Equipment. None Fourteen Vermont food system organizations are receiving just under $1 million in equipment only grants solely for "special purpose" equipment that must be used for middle of the supply chain activities, such as processing, storage, transportation, aggregation, distribution, or wholesaling of Vermont or regional food products. Were grateful to have this funding from USDA which will help us make important long-term investments, benefitting the future of Vermont.Todays announcement encompasses the $3.1 million in USDA Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure grants that Vermont announced in April 2024, supporting innovative projects designed to build resilience across the middle of the supply chain and strengthen local and regional food systems.Infrastructure is vital to the future of Vermonts regional food system, said Anson Tebbetts, Vermont Secretary of Agriculture. This was a recommendation of Governor Scotts Future of Agriculture Commission, and we are thankful to have these investments from USDA.These RFSI grants target projects that expand processing capacities, modernize equipment, update IT systems, construct new facilities and install more efficient and climate-smart equipment. This program creates new opportunities for Vermonts small and midsize producers to thrive, expand access to nutritious food options, and increase supply chain resiliency.