USDA Grant Boosts Fresh Veggies for Wisconsin Schools

By Blake Jackson

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development has announced a new investment to support a farmer-owned cooperative in Wisconsin focused on improving access to fresh, minimally processed vegetables for children.

The initiative aims to supply schools and childcare centers across the state with convenient, nutritious produce options.

Wisconsin State Director Andrew C. Iverson shared that the agency is awarding a $250,000 grant to the Wisconsin Food Hub Cooperative, based in Waupaca.

The funding will be used as working capital to produce grab-and-go packets of fresh vegetables, including broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, kohlrabi, and radishes.

“Under the leadership of President Donald Trump and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, USDA Rural Development remains committed to ensuring that children in Wisconsin have access to safe, healthy food,” said Iverson.

“From farm fields to schools and childcare centers, this investment will expand the availability of nutritious options for children across the state so they can learn and grow. The Make America Healthy Again movement is helping strengthen families and build healthier communities across Wisconsin.”

The cooperative will source produce year-round from its farmer members, while Olden Produce LLC, also a farmer-owned operation, will handle processing. Vegetables will be prepared in child-friendly formats, such as matchstick cuts for carrots, kohlrabi, and radishes, and florets for broccoli and cauliflower.

The funding will cover several operational needs, including processing, marketing, labor, delivery, and sales support. The project is also expected to preserve seven jobs within the cooperative.

This investment is provided through the USDA’s Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG) program, which helps agricultural producers create new products, expand market opportunities, and increase income by enhancing the value of raw commodities.

The program supports both planning and working capital projects, including packaging, advertising, and staffing. Applications for the VAPG program are currently open through April 22, 2026, at 12 p.m. Central Time.

Photo Credit: usda