Minnesota State Wire

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has allocated over $1 million through its Farm to School and Early Care Grants program. The funding is intended for schools and early care providers in the state to buy Minnesota-grown and -raised foods. This initiative aims to provide market opportunities for local farmers and enhance meal quality in educational institutions across Minnesota.

MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen stated, "When schools and early cares serve local food, everyone benefits – our farmers, our kids, our communities, and our economy." Petersen emphasized the importance of incorporating local produce, saying, "Minnesota kids deserve the best, and Minnesota farms can provide the best."

For 2025, the MDA introduced a new element to its program by awarding $97,000 to 194 family childcare providers through the Local Tots Cost-Share program. Each provider received a $500 award, part of a non-competitive cost-share program to aid in serving local foods in meal programs. This marks the debut of the initiative, expanding MDA's efforts to support children across the state.

Additionally, $948,096 was distributed to 63 school districts and nine early childhood education centers through Farm to School and Early Care grants. Two types of grants were provided:

- The First Bite Grant: intended for institutions new to local purchasing.

- The Full Tray Grant: for those with some experience in local sourcing, involving larger projects.

Grants ranged from $2,500 to $35,000, supporting $866,089 in local food purchases. Organizations could also apply for additional equipment funding, requiring a 1:1 financial match. A total of $82,007 in equipment funds was awarded to 12 schools and centers for kitchen tools.

The funding is provided through the MDA's Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) program. The AGRI program's purpose is to advance Minnesota's agricultural and renewable energy sectors.

A comprehensive list of grant recipients and amounts is available on MDA's website.