Connecticut Agriculture Department opens applications for 2026 CT Grown for CT Kids Grant, expands eligibility

The Connecticut Department of Agriculture (CT DoAg) is pleased to announce the release of the FY 2026 Connecticut Grown for Connecticut Kids Grant (CTG4CTK) guidance and application periods. With a total of $950,000 in funding available, this grant continues to support farm-to-school efforts that connect Connecticut children with local food while strengthening local agriculture and nutrition education. Full grant awards will be funded at up to $50,000, while Microgrants will receive up to $5,000 each.

“Through continued support from the Lamont-Bysiewicz administration and legislature, the CT Grown for CT Kids Grant program continues to integrate the state’s robust agriculture sector in traditionally non-agriculture communities,” said Agriculture Commissioner Bryan P. Hurlburt. “As program demand increases, we continue to refine our program guidance to ensure the funds are utilized in meaningful ways to increase access to CT Grown farm products.”

New for FY 2026

Highlights of the latest grant guidance include several key updates to streamline access, enhance program goals, and improve clarity for applicants. All updates are highlighted in yellow in the full guidance document for easy reference.

Updated Eligibility & Expenses

Colleges, universities, and their student groups are now eligible applicants.
CT Grown for CT Kids Week expenses are now eligible.
Stricter guidelines on personnel and capital costs to ensure responsible use of funds.

Award Enhancements

Application Deadlines

All applications are due by 12:00 p.m. (noon) EST on their respective dates as follows:

Microgrants (Tracks 1-4): September 18, 2025
Full Grants (Tracks 2, 3 & 4): October 24, 2025

A live webinar and Q&A session will be held on September 5, 2025, from 2:00-3:30 p.m. Following the webinar, virtual office hours and drop-in coaching sessions will be offered. Details will be announced during the webinar and posted on the CTG4CTK grant webpage.

For full guidance and applications materials, please visit the CT Grown for CT Kids Grant webpage. Questions may be directed to Hannah Carty, Program Coordinator at Hannah.Carty@ct.gov or 860-471-1620.

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Connecticut Agriculture Department opens applications for 2026 CT Grown for CT Kids Grant, expands eligibility