Northern Border Regional Commission spring grants

Submitted by tim on Mon, 02/09/2026 - 05:14

Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets Interested applicants are invited to submit pre-applications to Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) programs for Spring 2026 funding consideration. Pre-applications may be submitted for the following programs:

The CATALYST PROGRAM stimulates economic growth and inspires partnerships that improve rural economic vitality across the four-state NBRC region.
The FOREST ECONOMY PROGRAM supports the forest-based economy and assists in the industry’s evolution to include new technologies and viable business models across the four-state NBRC region.
The TIMBER FOR TRANSIT PROGRAM advances the use of domestic forest products in transportation infrastructure projects across the four-state NBRC region to showcase the capabilities of wood in these applications.

For helpful resources, including a seven-part Program Overview Series, visit the Pre-Application Support page.

Pre-applications are due February 27.

Learn more

Local Food in Schools and Child Care Food Hub Grant

There's still time to apply for the Local Food in Schools and Child Care Food Hub Grant, which provides local food to Vermont K-12 students through partnerships with non-profit food hubs. Eligible food hubs may apply for funding to work with a subset of School Food Authorities (SFAs) within their distribution reach, giving each SFA a predetermined amount of funding to purchase local food from the food hub.

A total of $300,000 is available for two‑year projects, with no matching funds required.

Apply by February 19

Vend in the Vermont Building at the Big E

There’s still time to apply to vend at the Vermont Building during the 2026 Big E! Showcase your Vermont brand to more than 1.5 million fairgoers at one of the Northeast’s largest events. The Vermont Building features a curated mix of food producers, makers, and retailers that highlight the best of our state. Vermont businesses in good standing are encouraged to apply for this high‑visibility opportunity. Participating vendors gain access to a huge audience and a unique platform to grow brand recognition.

Apply by March 1

Learn About Growing Fiber Hemp

Enroll in a free online course from the UVM Extension Northwest Crops & Soils Program to learn the fundamentals of growing fiber hemp in the Northeast. This research‑based series is ideal for anyone interested in the region’s emerging fiber hemp industry. Virtual sessions will be led by UVM Extension Hemp Research Specialist Laura Sullivan, along with guest speakers advancing new techniques and technologies. The course runs Tuesdays from 1:00–2:15 p.m. from February 20 to March 17.

Register now

Vermont Organic Dairy Producers Conference

Join the 2026 Vermont Organic Dairy Producers Conference on March 6 at Vermont State University’s Randolph Campus. This year’s program features farmer panels on labor‑saving innovations, cow‑monitoring technologies, and forage renovation, along with updates on regional organic dairy research.

Registration is $25. Sessions run from 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with registration beginning at 9:00 a.m.

Register now

Upcoming Dates & Deadlines

February
2/19 - Local Food in Schools and Child Care Food Hub Grant application due

March
3/1 - The Big E Vendor application due

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