Description
This Nebraska Department of Education grant supports rural and frontier schools in upgrading kitchen equipment to increase scratch‑cooked meals and locally‑sourced protein, thereby reducing reliance on heat‑and‑serve items. Applicants must submit a completed application, four‑week menu samples, three price quotes for each equipment item (minimum $10,000), and detailed plans for menu changes, staff training, and procurement justification. Awards are capped at $100,000 per school per year, with a total federal pool of $2,234,048. The grant period runs from June 1 2026 to June 30 2027.
• Eligible entities: public or non‑public school food authorities in rural or frontier Nebraska counties.
• Funding covers only equipment purchases; construction and admin costs are not allowable.
• Required documentation includes menus, quotes, and implementation plans, all submitted electronically by August 31 2026.
• Post‑award obligations: purchase equipment, submit proof of purchase, and provide an annual report by June 30 2027.