Working Lands Enterprise Initiative supports Vermont agriculture and forestry business trade show activity
December 15, 2022 | Montpelier, VT – The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets (VAAFM) is now accepting applications for Trade Show Assistance Grants. Funded by the Working Lands Enterprise Initiative (WLEI), these grants provide Vermont agricultural and forestry businesses with funds to identify, plan, exhibit, and sell their Vermont products at out-of-state and international trade shows or virtual shows targeting out-of-state buyers. WLEI has set aside $50,000 to support Vermont businesses with their tradeshow marketing between April 1, 2023 and March 31, 2024.
Trade Show Assistance Grants provide 50% reimbursement on eligible expenses to help mitigate the financial risks associated with exhibiting at trade shows. Applicants may include up to five trade shows in their yearly marketing plan, requesting a total of between $2,000 and $5,000 in eligible reimbursements. Proposed show(s) must be in the business to business (wholesale) format.
To receive funds through this grant, businesses must meet the following criteria:
- Business is registered with the Vermont Secretary of State and has been in business for over one year;
- Business or its headquarters are located within Vermont;
- Business has three or more wholesale accounts;
- Business’ products meet the Vermont Local Definition as defined in Act 129. Applications will be reviewed through a competitive process. Eligibility does not guarantee funding will be awarded.
Applications will be accepted through January 31, 2023. Visit www.agriculture.vermont.gov/grants/tradeshow to learn more and apply. Questions related to the Trade Show Assistance Grant program should be directed to Kristen Brassard at 802-522-3742 or kristen.brassard@vermont.gov .