Monadnock Food Co-op is proud to announce the Monadnock Food Co-op Farm Fund; a new grant opportunity for local farmers through a partnership with the Cheshire County Conservation District. 

The Monadnock Food Co-op Farm Fund's mission is to support local farmers in increasing sustainable food production and wholesale sales to contribute to a thriving local farm economy.  This grant supports several of the co-op's goals, including a healthy, sustainable food system, the support of local farmers and producers and a strong, sustainable and improving local economy.

There will be $9,500 available for the 2017 grant cycle and a Request for Proposals is now available.  Proposals are due February 1, 2017.

Funds can be used for a range of needs including the purchase of equipment or infrastructure, packaging and labeling design needs and technical assistance.  Eligible applicants include farms in Cheshire County and abutting NH towns who would like to develop or expand their production for wholesale markets, including the Monadnock Food Co-op and Monadnock Menus.

"This grant fund and partnership with CCCD will allow us to provide much-needed capital for our local farm and food economy, creating an increase in the quantity of food that can be produced and consumed locally. We couldn't be happier to offer this grant fund to farmers who want to increase wholesale production." Said Michael Faber, Monadnock Food Co-op General Manager.

Tax deductible donations to this fund can be made to the Cheshire County Conservation District.  Watch for additional fundraising activities at the Monadnock Food Co-op in the coming months, including the ability to Round Up your purchases to the next dollar or $5 in early 2017.

For more information on eligibility, to apply for a grant, or make a donation to the fund, please visit www.monadnockfood.coop/farmfund or call Amanda Littleton at 603-756-2988 ext 116.