Local Producers Scholarship 2024

 

2024 Winnerscoop local producers scholarship winners

 

Erin Altemus & Matt Schmidt
Sawtooth Gardens Market Farm
Hoop house to expand production

Lily Wilson
Earth Body Healing
Medicinal herb beds for healing

Alisa Berns 
Taproot Landscaping 
Cooling unit for flower transport

Trevor Huggins
Watershed Breads
Cooling unit for bread making


Application Announcement – March 2024

May 1 update: the application deadline has passed. 2025 scholarships will be announced in March-April.

Please help us spread the word!

Submit your 2024 Local producer scholarship app by April 30, 2024. Funding decisions will be made by the Cook County Co-op by May 31, 2024.

The Local Producers Scholarship is an annual giving initiative created by the Cook County Co-op to support local growers and producers in Cook County, MN

This year we will be awarding three scholarships for $1000 each. Preference will be given to producers whose mission, values, and practices:

– have a demonstrated need and plan for the implementation of the grant
– enhance the local food, floral, and/or csa system
– work cooperatively with or purchase directly from other local farmers, producers, or businesses

Use & Eligibility Requirements

You do not need to sell to the Co-op to be considered. 

Funds should be used for (but are not limited to):

  • Establish or improve land or operating space
  • Buy necessary equipment or supplies
  • Pay for education related to sustainable production

Eligibility requirements:

  • Reside in and have a farm or production business located in Cook County
  • Have not received a local producer’s scholarship in the previous year
  • Have been established in their current business for at least six months prior to applying
  • Are not a staff member at the Cook County Co-op

Application Requirements

1 – Submit your 2024 Local producer scholarship application

2 – Include a written one-page, single-spaced description that includes:

– your commitment to sustainable, local production

– what the funds will be used for

– expected benefits (specifically who will be served and why it’s important)

3 – Agree to send the Cook County Co-op an image and a 500-word written statement of your success as a result of the scholarship by August 31, 2024.

Download the 2024 Local producer scholarship app