Iowa public and private schools can now apply for funding to purchase more Iowa-grown and Iowa-raised food for students.
The Choose Iowa Local Food for Schools Program provides $200,000 in funding to participating school districts. Schools must provide a minimum 1:1 financial match, helping increase the amount of local food purchased.
Applications are open through Aug. 31, 2026, with participating schools expected to be notified before Iowa Local Food Day on Sept. 23.
Funding will be distributed evenly among approved school districts based on the number of participating districts. Schools will use the money to purchase eligible Iowa food products through seven participating Iowa food hubs.
The permanent program was established through the bipartisan 2026 Iowa Farm Act following a successful pilot program in 2025. During the pilot, 61 schools and school districts applied for more than $158,000 in funding, while $70,000 was available. Ultimately, 33 schools or districts received funding.
Applications must be submitted by Aug. 31 to [email protected]. Additional information and application materials are available through Choose Iowa.
