Vermont awards $1 million to support local agriculture

Vermont recently took a significant step to strengthen its rural economy.

In March 2026, the Working Lands Enterprise Initiative (WLEI) awarded over $1 million in grants to 34 local businesses and nonprofits.

This initiative, created in 2012, supports the state's vital agricultural and forestry sectors.

Officials reported receiving 169 applications requesting over $6 million in total, highlighting the significant demand for growth capital among Vermont's farmers.

Agriculture Secretary Anson Tebbetts emphasized that these funds are crucial for boosting efficiency and keeping local rural communities vibrant.

By helping small businesses remain competitive against larger industrial players, Vermont aims to improve the state's long-term economic affordability.

This targeted support ensures that the state's rich agricultural heritage continues to thrive in a challenging economy.