Fifty-one working lands businesses will focus on expansion, growth and positive economic impacts in rural Vermont.
MONTPELIER – The Working Lands Enterprise Board (WLEB) announces 51 awards to working lands businesses and organizations in 2024. The $2,329,561 in awards will support those who are earning a living off the land.
“The challenges the farm and forest economy sectors face are significant, which is why my Administration continues to prioritize investments in the rural regions of our state,” said Governor Phil Scott. “These awards are important to growing our economy and making it more affordable for those working the land.”
The award categories and area businesses receiving awards are:
Business Enhancement Grants: $558,343 awarded to 14 businesses. These grants support farm, forest, and food businesses using local products with market development, infrastructure, equipment costs, and workforce development to advance their businesses. A local recipient is 802 Logging, Craftsbury, that received $50,000 for a feller buncher to increase efficiency and safety and to minimize environmental impact during harvesting.
Supply Chain Impact Grants: $788,159 awarded to six businesses and nonprofits. These grants support farm, forest, and local food businesses investing in critical supply chain infrastructure, such as distribution and processing initiatives, investments that create new opportunities for multiple businesses in their respective supply chains. A local receipient is Myers Produce, Craftsbury that received $45,000 for digital infrastructure to support regional sales and transportation of Vermont food.
Trade Show Assistance Grants: $59,968 awarded to 13 businesses. These grants support local food and forest businesses to attend trade shows to bring Vermont products to out of state markets. A local recipient is Sawyer Made, Woodbury, that received $4,935.
In the upcoming fiscal year 2025, $1 million will be available for agriculture and forest businesses and organizations. Applications will open in the fall. Visit workinglands.vermont.gov to find out more.
