By Scout Nelson
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for its Produce Safety Mini-grant program. This funding opportunity is designed to support produce growers by reimbursing costs related to improving on-farm food safety systems.
The program plans to distribute about $30,400 in total funding. Each eligible farm can receive reimbursement of up to $800, and no matching funds are required. This makes the program accessible for small and medium-sized operations seeking to strengthen produce safety practices.
To qualify, applicants must operate a farm in Minnesota and must have grown and sold specific produce crops during the 2025 season. These crops include leafy greens, apples, berries, carrots, cucumbers, garlic, green beans, herbs, melons, microgreens, mushrooms, onions, peppers, sprouts, summer squash or zucchini, and tomatoes.
Applicants must also have completed the Food Safety Modernization Act Produce Safety Rule Grower Questionnaire or verified their Produce Safety Rule status with the department between 2023 and 2026. This requirement ensures farms are aware of and following federal produce safety guidelines.
Eligible expenses must have occurred on or after November 1, 2023, or be planned before June 30, 2026. Approved reimbursement categories include harvest totes, waxed boxes, market containers, carts, pull wagons, and water testing for generic E. coli. The grant also covers sanitizers for wash water and food contact surfaces, as well as supplies to build or purchase portable handwashing and produce washing stations.
Applications will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. on March 21, 2026. Additional details and the online application are available on the Produce Safety Mini-grant page of the department’s website. Paper applications can also be requested by phone.
This program is funded through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Marketing Service.
Photo Credit: minnesota-department-of-agriculture
Categories: Minnesota, Government & Policy, Rural Lifestyle, Farm Safety