VAAFM: Catalyzing Regional Dairy Workforce Grant

Submitted by tim on Mon, 04/21/2025 - 20:56

Vermont Agency of Agriculture Food & Markets This new grant from the Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center (NE-DBIC) addresses the significant need to expand dairy workforce development programming in the Northeast. Funds will support the development, expansion, and operations of existing workforce programs that are ready to expand services to benefit existing and potential employees of dairy farms and dairy processors.

Programs supported may be federally registered apprenticeships, state registered apprenticeships, pre-apprenticeships, internships, or other training programs. Projects funded through this grant will focus primarily on expansion and enhancement of program operations, program services, and participant support.

Awards will range from $20,000 to $100,000 with a 25% in-kind and/or cash match contribution. Approximately $800,000 in total funds are available.

Applications will be accepted from April 24th to June 5th.

Learn more

Join the Conversation about the Future of Vermont Dairy

The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets is hosting a series of listening sessions across the state and online to hear directly from dairy stakeholders, farmers, and processors.

These sessions will allow those involved in Vermont's dairy industry to express their concerns and ideas about the future of Vermont dairy. Each meeting will include a working portion focused on sorting ideas into priority levels.

View the meeting schedule

Seed Testing for Bean Growers

The UVM Extension Northwest Crops and Soils Program is evaluating seedborne diseases in dry beans throughout the Northeast. This type of assessment has been particularly helpful for those saving their own seed. Bean growers are invited to send them samples to have analyzed.

They will need 5 lbs. of seed per sample and will provide a shipping label and a $50 gift card in return for the sample. If you want results back before planting, they need to receive the samples as soon as possible.

Submit a sample

Survey for Restaurant Buyers Seeking Local Ingredients

Do you own or purchase ingredients for a restaurant? Are you interested in or currently purchasing Vermont grown crops? If so, we want to hear from you! The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets is surveying restaurants for the purpose of increasing sales and enhancing marketing opportunities for Vermont specialty crop producers.

Survey participants will help us develop resources to overcome market barriers in the relationship between local producers and restaurants. They may also be invited for future opportunities and events to help connect growers and restaurant buyers in their area.

Take the survey

Make a Nomination for the Vermont Dairy Farm of the Year

Do you know of an outstanding dairy farm deserving of recognition? Consider nominating them for the 2025 Vermont Dairy Farm of the Year.

Each year, University of Vermont Extension and the Vermont Dairy Industry Association honor one Vermont dairy farm that demonstrates a strong commitment to dairying through its sound management practices, attention to herd health, quality milk production, sustainable land stewardship, innovative ideas, and overall excellence.

Nominations are due May 1st.

Submit a nomination

Upcoming Dates and Deadlines

April
4/24 - Dairy Food Safety & Certification Grant deadline

May
5/8 - Dairy Marketing & Branding Services Grant deadline

June
6/5 - Catalyzing Regional Dairy Workforce Grant deadline

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View the VAAFM Grants Calendar