Kansas City is launching the new Promoting Local Agriculture & Neighborhood Transformation (PLANT) Grant, funding designed to strengthen our community food system by helping farmers increase access to fresh, locally produced food. Grants will offer up to $5,000 for new farms or garden projects and up to $10,000 for existing operations. Applications will be open for one month. Successful applicants will receive 50% of the funds upfront and must use the entire grant within 9 to 10 months.

Access to healthy food remains a challenge in many Kansas City neighborhoods. Years of underinvestment in local food infrastructure, combined with reductions in federal funding, have left communities without reliable, affordable options. The PLANT Microgrant Program addresses these gaps by investing directly in local growers and building a more resilient, community-based food system.

"The PLANT Grant represents a powerful step forward in strengthening Kansas City's local food system", said Councilwoman Melissa Patterson Hazley. "By investing in our growers and community-based producers, we're supporting agriculture, expanding access to healthy food, and building economic opportunity."

Eligible project proposals must address at least one of the program's core goals:

• Increasing food production, processing, or distribution for public use.
• Improving access to fresh, healthy food.
• Advancing regenerative agriculture practices in Kansas City.

Funded projects will include three check-in meetings with the City's Food Systems Coordinator and Urban Agriculture Concierge, including one in-person visit at the halfway point. Proposals will be scored by a panel of community partners and City staff based on budget, timeline, and anticipated impact.

"The PLANT Grant is a great example of how we can work together to support Kansas City neighborhoods. By partnering with local farmers and community organizations, we're investing in practical solutions that expand access to fresh food and strengthen our local economy," said City Manager Mario Vasquez. "This is about empowering residents, building trust, and delivering results that make our city healthier and more resilient."

A successful project proposal should produce outcomes that address at least one of the following goals: 

• Increase food crop production, processing, and/or distribution for public sales or distribution 
• Improve distribution & access to fresh foods 
• Advance regenerative agricultural efforts to produce food in KCMO for social and environmental benefits 

The PLANT grant is open from July 1st until July 31st. Learn more and to apply!