The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) is now accepting applications for the expanded Utah Food Security Grant (UFSG). This $11 million initiative represents the first year of a five-year program designed to bolster Utah's food system and enhance rural health and food access.
Approximately $9.2 million of the total allocation will be awarded directly to eligible organizations, including Utah farmers, ranchers, food processors, and distributors. This funding amount nearly triples the total funding provided over the previous four years of the program combined.
The grant funding is made possible through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program. In Utah, this program is administered by the Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).
Governor Spencer Cox stated that the investment will assist producers in reaching more markets and strengthening rural Utah while providing families with access to fresh, locally produced food. He noted that farmers and ranchers are essential to the state's economy, way of life, and food supply.
UDAF Commissioner Kelly Pehrson said the initiative offers an opportunity to change the impact of local food in rural Utah by providing the infrastructure and market access support necessary for producers to grow. Pehrson noted that these investments can strengthen local economies and create new connections for consumers.
The expanded UFSG seeks to address gaps in storage, processing, distribution, and market access that can prevent locally produced food from reaching Utah consumers. Eligible projects may focus on increasing production, expanding processing capacity, improving food storage and distribution, meeting food safety requirements, or reaching new markets.
UDAF indicated it will prioritize investments that help businesses grow while simultaneously increasing the availability of nutritious, local food in rural areas.
The application period for the first year of the Utah Food Security Grant is open from July 21 to August 31, 2026. Interested parties can find details regarding eligibility and requirements at ag.utah.gov/food-security-grant.
