About Us
The Vermont Family Farmer of the Month Fund makes a financial award to a Vermont family farmer each month for a project that will improve the viability of the farm. Awards recognize farmers whose businesses are contributing to a resilient Vermont agricultural landscape and demonstrate environmental stewardship through sustainable practices.
Funding for the Vermont Family Farmer of the Month comes from a comes from a generous, anonymous charitable gift fund. It is administered by the Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont in partnership with VHCB Vermont Farm & Forest Viability Program, Shelburne Farms, and the Vermont Grass Farmers Association.
Eligible Projects
The Vermont Family Farmer of the Month Award provides grants between $10,000 and $12,000 to support an innovative project on a Vermont family farm that will improve the viability of the enterprise. An example of an eligible project could be an upgrade or construction of a farm stand or wash and pack station, improvements in on-farm energy efficiency or integration of renewable energy, infrastructure design or construction for a new farm product, or an investment in soil or animal health. For questions about project eligibly, please contact us.
Award Timeline
Twelve grants will be awarded annually - one award for each month. Applications are reviewed three times a year and announced each month.
November through February Awards
Applications due mid September
March through June Awards
Applications due Mid January
July through October Awards
Applications due mid May
Reporting
Awardees will be expected to participate in a simple end of year impact report, which may include a description and pictures of the final project implemented and the impact of that project. The project administrators may also collect video footage from awardees.