Deadline: December 5, 2025
The Patrick Leahy Farm to School Grant Program 2026 is now open for applications. Administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the programme is designed to strengthen local food systems and increase access to nutritious, locally produced foods in schools and other child nutrition settings.
With up to $18 million in funding available, this grant presents a major opportunity for schools, state agencies, non-profits, and agricultural producers to create or expand farm-to-school initiatives.
About the Patrick Leahy Farm to School Grant Program 2026
The programme supports innovative and comprehensive farm-to-school projects that:
- Enhance access to locally produced foods in Child Nutrition Program (CNP) operations.
- Foster agricultural education through activities such as school gardens, taste tests, field trips, and cooking demonstrations.
- Build strong connections between schools, communities, and local agricultural producers.
The Patrick Leahy Farm to School Grant Program 2026 allows applicants to either launch new farm-to-school initiatives or expand existing programmes.
Grant Details
- Funding Amount (per project): Between $100,000 and $500,000.
- Total Funding Pool: Up to $18 million across all awarded projects.
- Application Deadline: December 5, 2025.
Who Can Apply
A wide range of organisations and agencies are eligible to apply, including:
- State agencies
- Indian Tribal organisations
- Child Nutrition Program operators
- Local agencies
- Agricultural producers and groups of producers
- Non-profit organisations (with valid 501(c)(3) documentation)
Important: Certain applicant types must apply as part of a partnership. This means collaborating with other eligible organisations is necessary for a complete and competitive application.
What the Grant Funds
Applicants are encouraged to propose projects that demonstrate measurable outcomes such as:
- Increased availability and use of locally sourced foods in school meals.
- Agricultural education experiences for children, such as school gardens, taste tests, and farm visits.
- Innovative approaches that strengthen local food systems and benefit both students and local farmers.
Key Considerations for Applicants
- Partnerships Matter: Ensure your proposal highlights collaborative relationships, especially if your organisation is required to apply with partners.
- Balanced Programming: A strong proposal should combine local food procurement with educational components.
- Clear Impact: Demonstrate how the project will improve student nutrition, enhance learning, and support local economies.
- Strong Budget Justification: Whether requesting $100,000 or $500,000, your budget should show clear alignment with project goals.
- Timeline Planning: With the deadline on 5 December 2025, prepare your proposal early to allow for necessary documentation and partnership agreements.
Application Process
Interested applicants can begin preparing their proposals now. Ensure that all supporting documents, partnership agreements, and required certifications are in place before submission.
👉 Click here to apply
👉 Read more about the programme
📌 For professional support with proposal drafting, refining, and review, contact us for proposal drafting, refinning and review.
