VermontBiz The Working Lands Enterprise Initiative is now accepting applications for the Business Enhancement Grant. Vermont-based farm, food, and forest sector businesses may apply for grants of $15,000 - $50,000.
The application portal is open from October 6th through November 20th. There will be an optional applicant webinar on Wednesday, October 11th from 12:00–1:00 PM.
Eligible project types include: market development, research & development, infrastructure development, or workforce training and development.
Applicants will be notified of awards in early January 2024. The estimated project start date is February 2024.
The Business Enhancement Grant requires a match equal to 100% of the grant request, meaning that a business applying for a $25,000 grant should expect to contribute $25,000 in their own cash and/or labor. Under limited circumstances, the matching requirement may be reduced or waived for applicants who demonstrate a clear need for this accommodation.
Apply for a Business Enhancement Grant
Farm to School and Early Childhood Capacity Building Grant
October is Farm to School and Early Childhood Month, which means the annual Capacity Building Grant opportunity is open!
This grant combines funding with customized grant coaching, technical assistance, and professional development to build capacity for agriculture and food systems education at Vermont schools and early childhood programs.
Schools, early childhood programs, consortiums of schools or early childhood programs, and supervisory unions/school districts are encouraged to apply.
Application deadline: November 15th
Capital Equipment Assistance Program
The Capital Equipment Assistance Program (CEAP) is now open to assist with purchasing new or used equipment that will improve Vermont's water quality, mitigate greenhouse gases, reduce odors from manure application, and reduce costs to farmers.
CEAP provides up to 90% cost share to awarded grantees. Some examples of equipment include grain drills, manure injection toolbars, wastewater irrigation equipment, no till planters, and other equipment that supports farms to install water quality and climate-focused conservation practices.
Application deadline: November 1st
WLEI Accepting Proposals for Service Provider Contracts
The Working Lands Enterprise Board seeks service provider proposals to build executive and marketing business skills for working lands enterprises (farm, food, and/or forest products).
Proposed work can target enterprises in all stages of business development, from pre-venture through established operations.
Proposals must be sent as a single PDF file to Elizabeth Sipple, Working Lands Enterprise Initiative Program Manager, at [email protected].
Proposals due: November 3rd at 5pm
Climate Adaptation and Mitigation Fellowship Application
The Climate Adaptation and Mitigation Fellowship is designed to empower farmers and agricultural advisors to gain and share the knowledge and tools needed to be resilient in the face of climate uncertainty.
The Fellowship will run four programs beginning this Winter. These learning opportunities are for farmers and agricultural advisors in the Northeast and Midwest who are interested in climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies and planning.
Register for an informational webinar on October 11th at 5:30 to learn more!
Application deadline: November 11th
