Funding for NEW directories: The Agency of Agriculture has funds available to assist communities with developing local food directories. The goal is to complement existing, available directories (see links at http://www.vermontagriculture.com/buylocal) and fill in regions of the state currently underrepresented. Proposed projects must be:

1. Intended to create a comprehensive directory of local food sources for a region larger than a single town.
2. Sustainable beyond the initial development, with plans to keep information current in future years.

Priority will be given to projects that:

1. Occur in regions that do not currently have a local food directory available, or in which an existing food directory is significantly outdated and/or incomplete.
2. Create directories that will be made available online.
3. Have matching funds provided by local organizations and businesses.

Grants are capped at $1,000. Interested groups should write a 1-page description of their project and e-mail it to Helen Labun Jordan at Helen.Jordan@state.vt.us.

First review period has a deadline of August 31st, 2008. Requests will be considered as they arrive. Funds are limited, so please apply early. Projects must be completed by July 1st, 2009.

Funding for EXISTING directory updates & marketing: Regions that have existing food directories can apply for assistance to improve use of those directories. Uses for funds can include:

1. Adding an online component to a printed directory
2. Mailings to producers to solicit updates
3. Fees for conferences / workshops on local foods marketing
4. Reference materials

Grants are capped at $500. Funds less than $150 can be requested by contacting Helen Labun Jordan at Helen.Jordan@state.vt.us or 828-3828. Funds between $150 - $500 require a 1-page description of the request submitted to Helen.jordan@state.vt.us.

Applications will be reviewed as they arrive. Funds are limited, so please apply early. Projects must be completed by July 1st, 2009.