Minnesota schools, early childhood education (ECE) centers, and licensed in-home family childcare providers can now apply for grants through the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) Farm to Kids Programs. The First Bite Grant is intended for Minnesota K-12 school districts and ECE centers that are new to local food procurement and want to build skills and experience. Applicants may request $2,500 to $5,000, with no match required. The Full Tray Grant is intended for school districts and ECE centers that have some local food procurement experience and want to expand their local food offerings. Applicants may request up to $25,000. The Local Tots Cost-Share is intended for family childcare providers and reimburses up to 50% of eligible purchases, averaging approximately $1,000 per provider. The Equipment grant is available to schools and ECE centers applying for a First Bite or Full Tray grant. Applicants may request up to $20,000 for kitchen equipment to help process and prepare local foods. A 1:1 cash match is required.
