The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has officially opened applications for the 2026 Patrick Leahy Farm to School Grants, announcing up to $18 million in funding to strengthen the connection between local farmers and school nutrition programs across the country.
“The USDA says that they will invest up to $18 million in farm to school projects connecting farmers with child nutrition programs including ag education, school gardens and local food procurement, among others.” This initiative is designed to provide children with nutritious, locally sourced meals while supporting small family farms and boosting agricultural education.
According to the USDA, “improvements have been made to this year’s program including a streamlined application, removing barriers to innovation, and emphasizing partnerships to give small family farms the best chance at success.”
At the recent MAHA Report announcement, USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins emphasized the importance of the grants:
“Yesterday at the MAHA Report announcement, alongside Secretary Kennedy, we announced one of the key actions USDA has already taken to contribute to making our children healthy again – Farm to School Grants. These initiatives are one of the best ways we can deliver nutritious, high-quality meals to children, while also strengthening local agriculture. These grants will open new doors for small family farms, expand access to healthy food in schools, and inspire the next generation of Great American Farmers. Under President Trump’s leadership, USDA is proud to streamline this program, so it works better for families, farmers, and communities across our nation. Putting America’s Farmers First starts with putting our children first.”
Since its inception in 2013, the Farm to School program has awarded $100 million to 1,200 projects, supporting initiatives that:
- Incorporate more unprocessed, locally sourced foods into meals served at school, summer sites, and/or by child care providers;
- Provide producers training on procurement requirements and food safety standards to protect child health;
- Integrate agricultural education into career and technical programs to support the longevity of America’s agricultural legacy;
- Encourage increased consumption of fresh, whole fruits and vegetables; and more.
Applications are due December 5, and full details are available in the USDA’s request for applications.
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet. USDA Announces Opening of Farm to School Grant Program