How could the food that kids eat at school become more local,
more nourishing and more loved?

The Lake Michigan School Food System Innovation Hub funds community-driven collaborations that reimagine school meals.

Applications for the 2025 Spark and Innovation Collaborative Awards are now open! The deadline to apply is January 23, 2026 at 5:00 pm CST.

Illustration of a bowl of noodles, a butterbut squash, a loaf of brown bread, two strawberries and a tamale
Picture of a girl with brown hair, holding an apple and smiling

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

Every school day, millions of kids eat breakfast and lunch at school. Together we can ensure that these meals reflect our region’s rich traditions and abundant harvests.

The Lake Michigan School Food System Innovation Hub is a USDA-funded, grant-making initiative working across Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin to fuel change for our region’s school food system.

Are you working in our local food system as a farmer; food producer, supplier or distributor; educator; or nonprofit partner? We invite you to collaborate and apply for funding.

Grants are available up to $200,000 per year.

Explore Our Grants

Transcription (English)

View Video in Spanish | Hmong

4 states
16 Innovative Projects
344 Schools impacted

We're Here to Help!

Whether you’re in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan or Wisconsin, your State Lead can support your application and help answer questions about eligibility, forming a partnership, financial procedures and more.

GET SUPPORT