OLYMPIA, WA — The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) announced that applications are now open for the 2025–2027 Farm to School Purchasing Grant. Eligible schools and early learning programs can apply for funding through 5:00 p.m. PST on July 3, 2025.

The reimbursement-style grant program provides funding to help schools and early learning facilities source and prepare nutritious, culturally relevant meals using foods from small and direct-marketing farms and food businesses in Washington. Awards range from $1,000 to $300,000.

Eligible applicants include public school districts, childcare centers, and other organizations that operate a USDA Child Nutrition Program. Schools and early learning centers operated by federally recognized tribes that do not participate in a USDA program may also apply.

Since 2008, WSDA’s Farm to School Program has promoted the use of locally sourced foods in school meal programs. The Purchasing Grant is intended to reduce budget barriers that prevent institutions from buying Washington-grown products. According to the agency, more than $8.5 million in grant funds have been distributed since 2021, benefiting over 360 farms and food businesses across the state and resulting in the purchase of more than 140 types of local foods.

Interested applicants can find full guidelines and application materials on the WSDA website. Local producers interested in selling to schools are encouraged to explore the WSDA Farm to School Toolkit or contact farmtoschool@agr.wa.gov.

For media inquiries, contact pio@agr.wa.gov or call (360) 902-1800.