Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets Vermont producers now have access to new federal support as USDA opens enrollment for the Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) program and the Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers (ASCF) program. These programs will distribute $12 billion in one-time bridge payments to help farmers manage rising production costs and ongoing market disruptions. Payments will be based on a set price per acre of each crop.
The FBA program will distribute $11 million to farmers who grow the following commodities: Barley, Chickpeas, Corn, Cotton, Lentils, Oats, Peanuts, Peas, Rice, Sorghum, Soybeans, Wheat, Canola, Crambe, Flax, Mustard, Rapeseed, Safflower, Sesame, and Sunflower. Farmers must enroll by April 17 to be eligible for payments.
The Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers (ASCF) program offers similar one-time payments for specialty crop producers. Find a full list of eligible crops on the USDA website. Specialty crop producers must report their 2025 acreage data to USDA by March 13 to qualify.
Producers with a Login.gov account and a timely 2025 acreage report can access pre-filled applications at fsa.usda.gov/fba, or request them through their local USDA Farm Service Agency office. Vermont producers can get help applying by contacting their local USDA Service Center.
Wholesale Farm and Warehouse Tour
Join the Vermont Vegetable and Berry Growers Association on March 26 for a day in Johnson visiting the Foote Brook Farm and Deep Root Organic Co-op Warehouse followed by a visit to West Farm.
The day will cover a wide range of topics geared towards growers interested in understanding the basics of selling produce in the wholesale market, such as product handling, packing, cold chain, shipping, and product integrity throughout the supply chain to meet buyer needs.
This event is free, but registration is required and space is limited.
Register now
Learn About USDA Funding Opportunities
Curious about USDA funding but not sure where to begin? UVM Extension is hosting a series of in‑person events across Vermont to help farmers navigate USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) programs. Mark your calendar for the session nearest you in March or early April.
At each event, participants will hear directly from a farmer and their NRCS Conservation Planner, connect with FSA staff, and receive hands‑on support in completing the paperwork needed to become eligible for funding. These workshops are free with lunch provided, but registration is required.
Register now
Specialty Crop Block Grant Request for Applications Now Available
The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program is a USDA-funded initiative that aims to strengthen Vermont’s specialty crop industries and producer associations.
Project applications can request $15,000 to $35,000 in federal funds, with one to four grants awarded in 2026. This funding round will focus on projects that can support Vermont's specialty crop businesses through direct service, training, or tool development.
Applications will be accepted March 2 - March 30.
Read the Request for Applications
Wholesale Readiness Webinars for Produce Growers
The Vermont Vegetable and Berry Growers Association is hosting two webinars in March for produce growers who are interested in learning about selling into wholesale markets. The March 4 webinar will help growers understand wholesale distribution options and costs. The March 18 webinar will help growers understand produce safety audits and traceability for wholesale markets.
These webinars are part of afree VVBGA Winter Webinar series on Wednesdays from 12:00-1:00 p.m. Webinars will be recorded for on-demand viewing afterward.
Register now
Upcoming Dates & Deadlines
March
3/30 - Specialty Crop Block Grant application due
View the VAAFM Grants Calendar
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Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
https://agriculture.vermont.
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