MDAR GRANT FY27- Massachusetts Food Ventures Program (MFVP)

The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) is seeking proposals for the Massachusetts Food Ventures Program (MFVP), a grant program aimed at supporting commercial food enterprises that expand access to healthy, affordable, locally produced food and create economic opportunities within the Commonwealth's food system. Eligible applicants include municipalities, non-profit organizations, for-profit food businesses, agricultural/food cooperatives, and sole proprietors. The program will provide reimbursement grants ranging from $25,000 to $250,000 for capital improvement projects that strengthen food processing, distribution, and retail capacity. Projects must demonstrate measurable improvements in food access and, where applicable, must accept SNAP or provide a clear plan and timeline to do so. • Eligible projects include construction, renovation, installation, or durable equipment that strengthens food processing, storage, distribution, or retail capacity. • Applicants must contribute a minimum of 20% cash-match of the total project costs. • The program aims to support projects that increase access to healthy, affordable food options, particularly in low- and moderate-income communities, Gateway Cities, and underserved rural areas. • Applications must be submitted by May 28, 2026, at 4:00 PM. • The program is subject to available funding, and the Department reserves the right to terminate the contract if funding is not available.