A significant boost is underway for Vermont's local food infrastructure, thanks to over $3 million in grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. This initiative aims to enhance the state’s capacity in producing, processing, and distributing regional foods. The funds are distributed across two categories: infrastructure and specialized equipment.

Infrastructure investments focus on large-scale projects designed to expand operations related to aggregation, manufacturing, storage, and distribution of locally sourced goods. Recipients include Barred Woods Maple in Montgomery Center and Boyden Valley Winery in Cambridge, among others. These grants will allow businesses to upgrade facilities that play a crucial role in supporting the supply chain of regional produce. Meanwhile, the equipment-only category supports smaller entities by providing them with tools necessary for enhancing their product offerings or reaching broader markets. Beneficiaries such as 80 Goats Inc., Addison County Relocalization Network (ACORN), and All Souls Tortilleria will receive funding for machinery that directly impacts production efficiency and market access.

Governor Phil Scott emphasized the importance of farms and rural communities to Vermont's identity, expressing gratitude for USDA support enabling long-term investments beneficial to the state’s future. According to Agriculture Secretary Anson Tebbetts, strengthening infrastructure is essential for sustaining Vermont's regional food systems. By empowering small organizations through these grants, both producers and consumers benefit, ensuring public access to high-quality local products. This collaborative effort underscores the value of investing in local agriculture not only for economic growth but also for fostering community resilience and promoting sustainable practices.