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Innovation Grant

2026-2027 Innovation Grant Update

After careful consideration, the Vermont First Innovation Grant application process has been paused for the 2026–2027 academic year. We will not be accepting applications during this grant cycle.

The Vermont First team was excited about the opportunity to expand the program’s impact and support innovative projects within Vermont’s local food system, and we are disappointed that we are unable to move forward as planned.

Due to current budget constraints and financial pressures related to changing enrollment trends at the University of Vermont, funding for the Innovation Grant will not be available this year. We sincerely apologize to those who have already spent time considering projects, developing ideas, or preparing an application. We recognize the time and thought that goes into this process and regret the impact of this change.

While the grant program is paused, our commitment to Vermont First and Vermont’s local food system remains strong. We will continue working with farmers, producers, distributors, and institutional partners to strengthen local purchasing and create opportunities for Vermont food businesses.

During this pause, the Vermont First team will evaluate the program and consider how future funding opportunities can best support Vermont producers and advance our local purchasing goals.

Thank you for your understanding and continued partnership. We hope to share information about future Innovation Grant opportunities as resources become available.

About

The Vermont First Innovation Grant aims to strengthen local food systems by supporting Vermont farmers and food producers in supplying local food products (per Vermont Act 129) to University of Vermont Dining Services and Sodexo’s other Vermont First accounts.

The program provides financial support to Vermont farmers and food producers to enter and/or scale within the Sodexo institutional supply chain.

Projects will be aligned with at least one of the Vermont First Values:

  • Support Vermont’s local economy through the creation of inclusive market opportunities accessible for local producers, including diverse-owned and small-medium scale farm and food businesses.
  • Create opportunities for employees to engage with Vermont First and contribute to our local communities.
  • Contribute to an environmentally sustainable food system through food purchases and reducing food waste.
  • Cultivate intentional collaboration and transparency to build a diverse, equitable, and inclusive food system and work to remove structural barriers in participation and decision-making.

Timeline & Award

  • Timeline

    • Live Information Session: August 19, 2026; 3:00-4:00pm

    • Application deadline: October 30, 2026

    • Awardees notified: December 18, 2026

    • Funds dispersed: February/March, 2027

  • Award Amount: Grants will be awarded in the amount of $10,000-$15,000, based on the scope of the project. $50,000 is available in total.

Learn More & Apply

  • Vermont First Innovation Grant Overview Sheet
  • Vermont First Innovation Grant Rubric
  • Vermont First Innovation Grant FAQ Sheet
  • Vermont First Innovation Grant Application