Vermont First-LOGO

Innovation Grant

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

      • Link to the live information session
      • View the recording here!

    • 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