Vermont Business Magazine The Capital Equipment Assistance Program (CEAP) is accepting applications for equipment that will improve water quality on Vermont farms.
This competitive grant program, administered by the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food, and Markets, can fund up to 90% of the cost of equipment for successful applicants. Farms, custom applicators, nonprofit organizations, and research institutions are eligible to apply.
Applicants may apply in one of the following categories:
- Precision Agriculture (up to $25,000)
- Conservation Tillage, Cover Crop Equipment, Bedded Pack Management or Feed Management (up to $50,000)
- Liquid Waste Management (up to $75,000 for farmers; up to $150,000 for custom applicators/nonprofits)
Historically, CEAP commonly funds grain drills, no-till planters, flowmeters, manure injection toolbars, and dragline systems. Other equipment may be funded if the applicant can demonstrate how it will help install or improve conservation practices, reduce runoff, or support nutrient management.
Applications are due by November 1. Awards will be announced by February 2026, and equipment must be purchased before June 1, 2026.
Renewable Energy Heating Funds for Working Lands Businesses
Advanced wood heating (AWH) systems are a proven and cost-effective way to heat agricultural spaces. The Vermont Department of Forest, Parks, and Recreation has grants of up to $25,000 available to help working lands businesses install or upgrade AWH systems that use locally sourced wood, wood residues, and wood waste to offset the use of fossil fuels.
Efficiency VT provides free energy modeling, economic analysis, system design support, and financial incentives for transitioning to AWH systems. To learn more about how Vermont farms are using AWH, check out this case study of Mettowee Mint in Dorset.
Learn more
Farm to School Grants 101: An Overview of Funding Opportunities
Gina Clithero from the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets and Conor Floyd from the Vermont Agency of Education will be hosting a webinar to provide an overview of the State of Vermont farm to school grants available to schools and early childhood programs in the current fiscal year.
The webinar will be held on September 17 from 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM. Vermont schools, early childhood programs, and supporting farm to school service provider organizations are encouraged to attend. The webinar will include time for Q&A and will be recorded for those unable to attend in person.
Register now
The Growing Justice Fund is now accepting applications for projects that support the capacity of historically marginalized food producers to access, compete in, and transform institutional markets. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $250,000, this opportunity will support community-led initiatives that advance equitable food purchasing.
Potential applicants must complete the Eligibility Quiz by October 6 and applications are due by October 16.
Learn more
Celebrate the Season: Hosting Memorable Harvest Dinners
Are you looking for a unique way to celebrate the fall season and share your farm with others? Hosting a harvest dinner can be a memorable way to bring your community together, showcase your products, and create lasting connections.
If you’re ready to start planning your own harvest dinner, this month’s Marketing and Agritourism Blog provides key steps to help you create an event that’s both enjoyable and successful.
Read more on the blog
Upcoming Dates & Deadlines
September
9/9 - Farm to School Service Provider Grant Applicant Webinar
9/17 - Farm to School 101: An Overview of Current Funding Opportunities Webinar
October
10/6 - Farm to School Service Provider Grant application due
November
11/1 - Capital Equipment Assistance Program (CEAP) application due
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View the VAAFM Grants Calendar
Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
116 State St. Montpelier, VT 05620
https://agriculture.vermont.gov
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