📢 CAE Update on Federal Funding Cuts❗

This summer, here in the Northeast Kingdom, we’ve enjoyed long, warm summer days, full of activity and connection.  It is truly a special time of the year, when all the investments in building a thriving local food system come to life. Farms are busy harvesting crops and community members are connecting weekly at the Farmers Market. All of this activity gives me energy and motivation as we look forward into the future and the challenges ahead.
 

It is clear that some of the values we hold most dear  - our local food system, thriving rural communities, and the environment are being impacted by shifting federal policies. Shifting policies cause so much disruption and uncertainty to one’s ability to plan, and farmers are long-term planners - with much of their success dependent on thoughtful decisions made well in advance. Similarly, at CAE, the investments & choices we make today are meant to meet the moment of the present and the future. 

One such investment is our continued commitment to completing the renewable energy project at the Food Hub despite the loss of $250,000 in previously secured federal grant funding for the solar array. The solar array will provide long-term environmental benefits and play a crucial role in the sustainability of this critical new piece of local food systems infrastructure. It will also help keep costs down for the farms using the facility; a direct benefit to their operations. It marks an important milestone in CAE’s commitment to being a good steward of the land. 

 

 ⚠️ Since January 1, 2025, CAE has had $400,000 in awarded federal grants terminated.

☀️ $250,000 for the solar array at the Food Hub
🧑‍🤝‍🧑 $100,000 for our Community Connections work
🚚 $50,000 for Farm Connex

These losses are significant—and they reflect only one organization’s experience. While the loss of funding has forced us to reexamine and adapt some of our programs, the work will continue, even if it looks a bit different than in years past. That continuity is made possible in large part by the strong local relationships that sustain and support us.
We also recognize that we are not alone in navigating this new financial landscape. Other organizations are facing similar challenges, and we remain committed to supporting them however we can as we navigate this evolving landscape together.
 

In total, CAE’s programs and facilities directly impact thousands of people. Hundreds of jobs and over $20 million dollars of local economic activity is generated from CAE’s work annually. This is why, despite these challenges, CAE continues to support the people, farms, and food businesses who rely on our services.
 

We will keep building strong relationships and working alongside those committed to local, community-based solutions.  
And even as we navigate these uncertainties, we will continue to celebrate the success and vibrancy of a thriving local food system we’re all fortunate to be part of.

Thank you for your continued support, partnership and trust. We are honored to work alongside so many dedicated people, farms and businesses.  

Thank you, 
Jon Ramsay

Executive Director