Apply for an AGRI Farm to School Grant! Contributed by: Jackie Billhymer, University of Minnesota Extension

 Contributed by: Jackie Billhymer, University of Minnesota Extension

This year, two tiers of Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) Farm to School grants are available through the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. This grant funding supports public or private school districts that participate in the National School Lunch Program and serve food to K-12 students. School districts serving sovereign nations are encouraged to apply. Both applications are due by 4 p.m. on December 18, 2020. Below is key information about each grant and a link to their official application pages where full details can be found. 

AGRI First Bite Mini Grant  provides an intentional learning process to school districts that have little to no experience procuring local food as part of the Farm to School Program. Eligible projects will receive between $2,500 - $5,000 to focus on high-impact Farm to School efforts that highlight local food. No matching funds are required.

AGRI Full Tray Grant  supports schools with some Farm to School experience and will allocate between $2,500 and $35,000 to eligible applicants. Eligibility is based on the number of reimbursable breakfasts and lunches served in October 2019. The formula for eligibility, as well as examples of eligible procurement items can be found through the Full Tray Grant link. Matching funds are required.