Eligibility

California public school districts may apply. Programs must focus on connecting students to local and regionally grown food through school garden programs, farm field trips, agricultural education, and school meal procurement from local farms. Priority is given to districts serving high proportions of low-income students.

Program Goals

The California Farm to School Incubator Grant Program, administered by the California Department of Food and Agriculture Office of Farm to Fork, helps school districts build and sustain farm-to-school programs. Funded activities include school garden development, local food procurement pilots, student farm experiences, and agricultural and nutrition education curriculum. The program became permanently funded starting in 2026, ensuring ongoing annual grant rounds.

Application and Distribution

Applications are submitted through CDFA during the annual grant cycle. Districts must submit a program plan, demonstration of local food partnerships, student demographic data, and a budget. The program transitioned to permanent annual funding in 2026, so application cycles are expected annually. Monitor the CDFA Office of Farm to Fork website for current RFA announcements.

Cycle Notes

The Farm to School Incubator Grant became a permanent annual program in 2026. Application cycles are expected each year, though exact dates may vary. Monitor the CDFA website at cdfa.ca.gov/farmtofork for current RFA dates and to download the application.

Grant Award Amount

Grants award up to $100,000 per district per year. Larger districts with multiple school sites may receive higher awards based on student enrollment and program scope. Funds support garden infrastructure, curriculum, local food procurement, and student field experiences.

Allowable Purchases

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for the CA Farm to School Incubator Grant?

California public school districts may apply. Programs must focus on connecting students to local food, school gardens, and agricultural education. Priority is given to districts serving high proportions of low-income students.

How much funding is available through the Farm to School Grant?

Grants award up to $100,000 per district per year. Larger districts may receive proportionally higher awards based on scope and enrollment.

Can Farm to School Grant funds be used for STEM and coding tools?

Yes. Farm to School Grant funds can support hands-on STEM materials, physical computing kits, and coding curriculum when they align to the program's stated goals. Document alignment to program objectives before purchasing.

How do California schools apply for the Farm to School Grant?

Apply through CDFA during the annual application cycle. Monitor the CDFA Office of Farm to Fork website at cdfa.ca.gov/farmtofork for current RFA dates and application links.

How can Forward Education help with Farm to School Grant funding?

Forward Education provides curriculum alignment documents, official pricing letters for grant budgets, and letters of support for California schools. Our STEM kits are purpose-built to meet the learning outcomes this program funds. Contact us before submitting your application.