Applications Due April 30, 2025
Local producer scholarship app (pdf download)
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.
Check out the Northern Wilds story from last year and submit your Local producer scholarship app by April 30, 2025. Funding decisions will be announced in June. Please help us spread the word!
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 2025 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, 2025.
Download the 2025 Local producer scholarship app
2024 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