LITTLE ROCK — Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and the Arkansas Department of Agriculture have announced more than $564,267 in grant funding to help Arkansas schools expand access to nutritious meals, increase the use of Arkansas-grown products, and boost participation in school nutrition programs.
“Student learning and success doesn’t happen without consistent access to healthy, nutritious meals,” said Governor Sanders. “Last year, we made school breakfast free for every Arkansas public student so they can start their day with the fuel their minds need, and we launched Arkansas Plate to feature more Arkansas-grown products on their trays. I’m proud to build on that work with these grants, helping schools serve more nutritious meals and partnering with the local farmers who help feed our nation.”
“Providing schools with the equipment they need to serve nutritious meals is an investment in both Arkansas students and Arkansas agriculture,” said Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward. “These grants will help schools expand participation, improve meal quality, and further incorporate Arkansas products into their menus.”
School administrators and nutrition directors are encouraged to apply. Applications for the Breakfast Equipment Expansion Grant are due November 6, 2026, and applications for the USDA Equipment Assistance Grant are due November 20, 2026.
Grants will support schools participating in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs by funding equipment that improves food preparation, storage, transportation, and service while increasing the utilization of Arkansas-grown, raised, and processed products. Eligible equipment includes:
Blenders and freezers for smoothies featuring Arkansas-grown produce
Ovens, warmers, and rice cookers for breakfast bowls made with Arkansas ingredients
Refrigerated storage, prep equipment, and cold-holding units for fresh fruits and vegetables
Equipment that enhances food safety, energy efficiency, and meal quality
Schools will be selected through a competitive process evaluating project impact, equipment need, food safety, breakfast expansion, use of Arkansas products, and service to students with the greatest need. Awardees will receive training and technical assistance to support implementation.
Applications and additional information can be found on the Department’s website.
About the Arkansas Department of Agriculture
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture, forestry, and natural resources to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while conserving natural resources and ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. For more information, visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/.
