MONTPELIER – Eight Vermont agriculture, food, beverage, forest, and fiber product associations that provide support to the development of Vermont’s economy and the viability of our working landscape businesses will implement marketing projects with $2,000 grant awards.
“These grants are really helpful because they support the consumer education marketing efforts we need to engage in, but have difficulty finding funding to support,” said Meghan Sheradin, executive director of the Vermont Grass Farmers’ Association (VGFA), in a press release.
On a recent site visit by the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food, and Markets (VAAFM), grass-fed, organic dairy farmer Matt Choiniere of Choiniere Family Farms in Highgate spoke of his appreciation for VGFA’s commitment to provide critical support to the development of Vermont’s economy and the viability of its working landscape, by educating consumers about the benefits of grass-fed products.
“VGFA helps the general public understand why farmers like us chose to use a grass-based livestock system, helping them make more informed choices in the marketplace,” said Choiniere.
VAAFM began accepting grant applications for the Vermont Producer Association Grant Program on Thursday, May 3, on a first-come, first-served basis for eligible applicants. Eligible applicants must be Vermont-based nonprofit organizations that represent and promote Vermont agriculture, food, beverage, forest, and / or fiber products. A total of $16,000 in grants funds were available and all eight $2,000 grants were awarded within 4 days of the grant opening.
These grants are one of the many ways VAAFM facilitates, supports, and encourages the growth and viability of agriculture.
The following organizations were awarded $2,000 Producer Association Grants: Vermont Farmers’ Market Association, Vermont Fresh Network, Vermont Grass Farmers’ Association, Vermont Maple Sugar Makers Association, Vermont Organic Farmers, Vermont Specialty Foods Association, Vermont Tree Fruit Growers’ Association, Vermont Wood Manufacturers.
Questions related to the Vermont Producer Association Grant Program should be directed to (802) 505-1822 or [email protected]
As your daily newspaper, we are committed to providing you with important local news coverage for Sullivan County and the surrounding areas.