Small Farm Diversification and Transition Grant

Grant Overview

• Award amounts $5,000-$15,000
• Project types:
  • Diversifying farm products, including continuing with a diversification project that began in the last 5 years
  • Transitioning from one form of farming to another, including continuing with a transition that began in the last 5 years
  • Processing farm products
  • Developing an accessory on-farm business 
• There is NO MATCH requirement for this grant.
• $150,000 available to award

Eligibility

• All enterprises must be based in Vermont
• Applicants must be in compliance with all state regulations (i.e. water quality, taxes) and in good standing with the State of Vermont
• To qualify as a small farm for this grant:
  • The farm must meet ONE of the following criteria:
    • Operate 4 or more acres for farming; OR
    • Have filed a 1040(F) Tax Form once in the last 2 years; OR
    • Earn an annual gross income of more than $2,000 from the sale of agricultural products
  • The farm must NOT be registered as a Permitted Medium Farm Operation (MFO) or Permitted Large Farm Operation (LFO)

How to Apply

1. Review the full Request for Applications for the complete details on eligible projects/applicants and the full application process.
2. Register in WebGrants (may take up to two business days).
3. Visit the Working Lands application frequently asked questions for resources and to get support on your application. 
4. Complete your application in WebGrants using our Application Guide.

Key Dates and Deadlines

• January 12, 2024: Request for Applications (RFA) released and application opens for submission
• January 17, 2024 10-11 AM: Applicant webinar with Q&A. View the slides and recording.
• March 4, 2024 at 11:59 PM: Application deadline
• April 2024: Applicants notified of funding decisions
• April 2024: Grantee documentation due
• May 2024: Estimated project start date