The Food Co-op is now accepting applications for the 2026 Farmer Fund, with $83,844.44 available in grant funding for Jefferson County farmers and food producers. These funds, raised entirely by our members and community, are intended to support infrastructure, equipment, and projects that build long-term resilience in our local food system.

In 2025, they awarded grants to 12 local farms. This year, they are hoping to reach even more farmers who could benefit from this support.

Eligibility requirements:

Applicants must:

• Be a registered business in Jefferson County, operating for at least one year
  AND either:

• Grow food or raise livestock in Jefferson County

• OR use food grown in Jefferson County to produce their product

Application deadline is November 30, 2025, and funds will be awarded in January. Projects might include anything from storage upgrades and irrigation to processing tools or structural improvements, anything that helps strengthen a farm’s operations.

 Get the word out by forwarding this opportunity to farmers you know or including it in your newsletters or outreach channels.

Details and application link: www.foodcoop.coop/farmerfund