Farmer out standing in his field.
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is now accepting applications for its new Farm to Food Security Grant program, a state-funded initiative designed to increase access to locally grown food for Minnesotans experiencing food insecurity.
Established by the Minnesota Legislature in 2025, the program is modeled after the former federal Local Food Purchase Assistance Program. It supports projects that purchase Minnesota-grown foods, including produce, meats, and other minimally processed or processed foods made with at least one primary ingredient that is 80% grown or raised in the state, and distribute them within Minnesota.
Eligible applicants include individuals, nonprofit and for-profit organizations, Tribal governments, government entities, agricultural cooperatives, economic development organizations and educational institutions.
“This program connects Minnesota grown food with people who need it, while helping small farmers build new markets and stable income,” said MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen. “We modeled it after a federal program that demonstrated real impact, and I appreciate the bipartisan work at the Legislature that made this program possible in Minnesota.”
Up to $1.3 million will be awarded through a competitive review process. Applicants may request between $20,000 and $100,000. A dollar-for-dollar match is required for funds over $50,000. Grants will be awarded on a reimbursement basis, meaning recipients must first cover project costs and then submit receipts for repayment after contracts are signed.
Applications are due by 4 p.m. Tuesday, March 31, 2026. Full eligibility requirements and application details are available on the MDA’s website.
