Vermont Boosts Local Food with New Grants

USDA Backed $3 Million Supports Food Infrastructure Projects

To strengthen the local food system, Vermont has awarded over $3.1 million in Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) grants, funded by the USDA and the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets (VAAFM).

The grants aim to improve the “middle of the supply chain” — the point between farm production and consumers — by supporting both infrastructure and equipment needs.

Six Vermont food organizations received a total of $2.1 million for infrastructure projects such as building or upgrading storage facilities, transport networks, and processing centres. These projects will increase capacity and improve food flow across Vermont.

Another 14 organizations received just under $1 million in equipment-only grants. This funding supports the purchase of specialized tools for processing, storage, aggregation, and distribution. These tools are expected to help recipients expand market access, increase output, or introduce new products.

“Farms and rural communities are part of what makes Vermont so special,” said Governor Phil Scott. “We’re grateful to have this funding from USDA which will help us make important long-term investments, benefitting the future of Vermont.”

The RFSI program reflects the goals of Governor Scott’s Future of Agriculture Commission and supports climate-smart agriculture, innovation, and access to healthy local food.

Vermont Secretary of Agriculture Anson Tebbetts added that these grants empower small organizations that are vital to regional food systems and public access to local produce.

These investments will improve infrastructure, modernize equipment, and help Vermont farmers thrive in a resilient, efficient, and connected food supply chain.