Local Food Funding Liaison
The Local Food Funding Liaison supports food producers and processors understand what funding and support options are available and how to move forward with applications. The program provides one-on-one support to help participants identify relevant grants, services, and resources based on their business, goals, and current needs. This may include guidance on funding eligibility, application requirements, business supports, training opportunities, and other programs that can help strengthen and grow local food operations in the Columbia Basin.
The program aligns with the Trust’s focus on fostering healthy and resilient communities by strengthening local food production and improving access to nutritious food.
Who can Apply
Eligible participants are food producers and processors in the Columbia Basin, which includes:
- Processors: Food processors that process multiple raw foods into finished or packaged products (e.g., frozen foods, beverages, snacks, or other packaged goods).
- Growers: Primary food producers such as farmers, ranchers, greenhouse and nursery operations, and beekeepers who grow or raise raw food products.
- Grower-Processors: Value-added food producers that transform their own raw agricultural products into higher value goods (e.g., making jam or juice from fruit).
How to Register
Step 1: Complete the online registration form with basic information about your business. The form takes approximately 5 minutes to complete. Registrations will typically be reviewed within one week. Complete the registration form here.
Step 2: If eligible, a liaison will contact you to schedule a meeting to discuss your business, goals, challenges, and support needs. Meetings typically take 30–60 minutes.
Step 3: Following the meeting, the liaison will identify relevant funding programs, services, and supports for your business. You will receive a document outlining funding and services opportunities, eligibility requirements, and suggested next steps.
Step 4: If you decide to apply for funding, the liaison may provide guidance or review draft materials. However, participants are responsible for completing and submitting their own applications.
