Best Grants for Farmers in Vermont

Farmers, nonprofits, researchers, and agricultural service providers in Vermont and the broader Northeast can seek funding for community-level farming and food system projects through the Northeast SARE Farming Community Grant Program, offering US $50,000 - US $250,000. With a mission to advance sustainable agriculture, Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education supports collaborative, social science-based projects grounded in farmer experience.

About VHCB

Our Mission

VHCB invests in the construction of affordable housing and conservation strategies that work together to ensure equity, resilience, and vitality for Vermont communities in perpetuity.

Water Quality Grants

The Farm & Forest Viability Program provides competitive, reimbursement-based grants of up to $50,000 to help Vermont farm businesses in water quality capital improvements. This program is funded by the State of Vermont Clean Water Budget, and there is approximately $750,000 in available funds in FY26.

Overview & Eligibility

Any Vermont farm with a gross farm income of $15,000 or more that is required to comply with Vermont’s Required Agricultural Practices (RAPs) is eligible for this award. We will consider applications from non-farm entities playing an integral role in water quality management on farms, such as custom operators or non-profits. Please contact staff to ensure your entity is eligible prior to applying.

The RALI Grant, offered by the Vermont Community Foundation, is an invitation-only program aimed at fostering regional and local impact through community-driven projects. Grants typically range from $15,000 to $25,000 annually, supporting initiatives that address economic equity, education, climate, health, and community leadership. Successful proposals will demonstrate collaboration, readiness, and measurable impact, ensuring they effectively tackle barriers to opportunity for Vermonters. Interested organizations must complete the Nonprofit Connection Form to be considered.

The Working Lands Enterprise Initiative's Business Enhancement Grant supports Vermont's agricultural, forestry, and food sectors by funding projects that enhance productivity and marketability. Eligible applicants include farms, logging businesses, and food processors that prioritize Vermont-grown resources. Funding can cover equipment, infrastructure, market development, and workforce training. This initiative aims to strengthen local economies and promote sustainable practices while fostering collaboration among various stakeholders in Vermont's working landscape.

Dairy farmers, producer cooperatives, service providers, and eligible milk buyers in Vermont and other Northeast states can apply for the Dairy Farm Improvement & Modernization Grant, awarding US $15,000 - US $100,000 for farm upgrades. Funding supports modernizing systems, innovative solutions, climate impact reduction, milk quality, worker conditions, and long-term farm viability.

Vermont farmers and custom manure applicators seeking equipment to improve manure management and water quality in Vermont can access funding through the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets. Grants up to US $50,000 support new or innovative equipment that reduces runoff, odors, phosphorus, greenhouse gas emissions, and application costs.

The New England Food Vision Prize aims to enhance local food supply chains in New England's educational institutions by awarding up to $1.5 million. The program supports innovative projects that increase the amount of regionally produced food served to K-12 and college students. By fostering collaboration among schools, farmers, and community organizations, the Prize strengthens food systems while prioritizing access for students and communities with limited fresh food options.