Cream of the Crop Awards Grant

Cream of the Crop Awards Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA)
Last Updated: February 27, 2026

Summary

Overview

Minnesota Department of Agriculture The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has served our state for more than 125 years. The work we do touches every Minnesota citizen every day. Our mission is to enhance all Minnesotans’ quality of life by equitably ensuring the integrity of our food supply, the health of our environment, and the strength and resilience of our agricultural economy. Our three general areas of responsibility include: Protecting our food supply; Protecting our natural resources; and, Cultivating our agricultural economy. Cream of the Crop Awards The Minnesota Grown Cream of the Crop Awards recognizes school districts, early care centers, and family day cares that go above and beyond to promote foods grown and raised by Minnesota farmers and producers. Whether it’s through locally sourced meals served in your cafeteria, community events to connect families and farmers, or food focused classroom lessons, we want to celebrate all the creative ways you connect your students and kids to Minnesota Grown food! Award Categories 1) Cream of the Crop Winners One winner from each category will be selected. Scoring will be based on applicants’ promotion and procurement of Minnesota grown and raised foods during the 2025-2026school year. School District of the YearEarly Care Center of the YearFamily Day Care of the Year 2) Outstanding in the Field Honors Additional applicants will be honored across three levels: Golden Drumstick HonoreesSilver Squash HonoreesBronze Berry Honorees 3) Producer Appreciation Pick Applicants will have the opportunity to nominate a Minnesota Grown producer that has been an outstanding partner in their Farm to Kids program. Reviewers will randomly select a nominated producer to be the 2026 Producer Appreciation Pick.

Eligibility

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