K–12 School Kitchen Supplies Mini-Grant
Peak Season’s Mini Grant Application window closed on September 15, 2025.
We were delighted by School Nutrition Directors’ strong interest and the opportunity to learn how this grant would support bringing more local food to their students!
The Peak Season team is currently reviewing applications and anticipate notifying schools of award decisions by the end of September.
Thank you to all who applied and shared this opportunity with their colleagues! We are grateful for the support.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is eligible to apply?
Public K–12 school districts in Maine are eligible. Applications must be submitted by School Nutrition Directors.
2. How much funding is available?
Each district (SAU/RSU/AOS) may apply for up to $4,000.
3. Can we apply for an item that costs more than $4,000?
Yes. If your request is over $4,000, your district would need to purchase the item in full first. Once proof of payment is submitted, the grant can reimburse up to $4,000 toward that purchase.
4. Is the grant per school or per district?
The award is per district, not per individual school. Districts may request items for multiple schools in a single application, as long as the total request does not exceed $4,000.
5. What counts as a district?
For this grant, a district refers to your SAU, RSU, or AOS. Each of these entities is eligible for up to $4,000 in total funding, regardless of the number of schools within it.
6. What types of purchases are allowed?
Funds may be used to purchase kitchen equipment and supplies from the list of approved vendors (C.Caprara, RM Flagg, and Webstaurant). Purchases must improve your school nutrition program’s ability to prepare, store, and serve more Maine-grown foods.
7. Can we order from multiple vendors?
Yes. You may include quotes from more than one approved vendor, as long as the total request stays under $4,000.
8. Can we request duplicate items for multiple schools?
Yes. For example, if two schools in your district both need salad bars, you may request two in a single application. Please specify which school each item is for.
9. What if I can’t get a full quote with a shipping address?
That’s okay! You can upload a cart screenshot or a partial quote, and then include your school’s shipping address separately in your application. If awarded, you’ll finalize the order at that time.
10. What is the application deadline?
Applications are due by September 15, 2025.
11. When will schools find out if they received a grant?
Applications are due by September 15, 2025. All applications will be reviewed immediately after the deadline, and schools will be notified of award decisions by the end of September 2025.
12. Who do I contact with questions?
Please reach out to Jessie Mazar at jessie@peakseasonmaine.com with any questions about eligibility, vendors, or the application process.