OLYMPIA, WA — The Washington State Department of Agriculture has awarded $2.7 million in grants aimed at strengthening the state’s local food system, supporting farmers, and improving access to locally produced foods.

The funding, distributed through the Local Food System Infrastructure Grant program, is intended to open new sales channels for farmers, reduce costs for small businesses, and expand access to healthy and culturally relevant food options across the state.

According to the department, six large-scale projects across five counties were selected, with individual awards ranging from $250,000 to $600,000. The projects are expected to improve food safety, boost processing efficiency, expand distribution networks, and increase availability of Washington-grown and produced foods.

State officials said demand for the program far exceeded available funding. Out of 50 initial proposals, 17 applicants were invited to submit full proposals, requesting a combined $11.7 million—nearly five times the amount awarded.

WSDA representatives said the investments are designed to address infrastructure barriers that can limit small and mid-sized producers from reaching markets such as schools and local institutions. The program also focuses on improving long-term sustainability for farms and food businesses facing ongoing economic challenges.

The grants are part of the department’s Regional Markets Program, which supports small farms and promotes localized food production systems throughout Washington.

For future grant opportunities, visit agr.wa.gov/grants.