Rhode Island Awards $575K to Farmers

New funding supports farmers, schools, and community food programs

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) has announced more than $575,000 in funding to support local food and agriculture programs during the kickoff of RI Grown Week at Farm Fresh Rhode Island (FFRI) in Providence.

The event brought together state officials, community leaders, and farmers to highlight the importance of investing in Rhode Island’s local agriculture. Governor Dan McKee said supporting local agriculture strengthens food security and the economy while connecting communities through fresh, local produce.

As part of the announcement, DEM awarded $125,000 in Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) funding to help local farmers expand market access for specialty crops such as fruits, vegetables, and nursery plants.

Funding recipients include:

• University of Rhode Island (URI): $52,934 to organize annual grower meetings and launch a new online resource for cut flower producers.
• Farm Fresh Rhode Island: $38,903 to promote food literacy in schools with hands-on crop education and taste testing.
• Revive the Roots (Smithfield): $33,437 to train growers in pest management, orchard care, and grafting, while hosting community engagement events.

Additionally, $450,000 in grants will be distributed through the Local Agriculture and Seafood Act (LASA) program. This round prioritizes second-generation farmers and succession planning to secure the future of Rhode Island’s agricultural and aquaculture industries.

Applications are open until December 5, 2025, and a technical assistance webinar will be hosted by the Rhode Island Food Policy Council on October 20.

Throughout RI Grown Week, workshops, producer sessions, and marketing events encourage farms and retailers to connect with customers and showcase Rhode Island-grown products. The initiative aims to build stronger local food systems and celebrate the state’s agricultural identity.