Urban Food Connections of Utah is pleased to offer a limited number of micro-grant opportunities for commercial farming establishments dedicated primarily to the production of fruits and vegetables using ecologically sustainable agricultural methods.

 The intent of the Local Food Microgrant Program is to increase the amount and diversity of ecologically sustainable agriculture produced for the Salt Lake City market by assisting local small farmers to access technology, education, tools and equipment to grow more organic local produce.

 Approximately $45,000 will be made available over the two-year term of this grant. Maximum grant request is $5,000. The Local Food Microgrant Program is made available through SLC Green: Salt Lake City's Sustainability Department.

 Who may apply for the grant?

UFCU is accepting applications from farmers that sell or distribute organic produce through Salt Lake City farmers markets, restaurants, institutions, grocery stores, and community supported agriculture operations that have drop-off sites within Salt Lake City limits. Microgrant funding is available to farms that are based in any of the following counties: Salt Lake, Davis, Weber, Morgan, Wasatch, Utah, Summit, and Cache.

 Potential projects that may qualify for funding include:

  • Installation of sustainable farming techniques such as waterwise irrigation systems, increased produce storage capabilities, solar panels, etc.
  • Building hoop houses or greenhouses to extend the growing season
  • Purchase of organic seed
  • Continuing education for farmers
  • Sponsorship for labor costs in the form of a summer farm apprenticeship

How to apply:

Applicants may complete the application found at https://goo.gl/SrWIaa. For questions regarding the grant and grant application, please contact the Downtown Farmers Market Grant Manager, Summer Martin at summer@downtownslc.org or 801-333-1102.