This story was originally published by VermontBiz on December 4, 2025.
Vermont State University (VTSU), in partnership with the Northeast Grass-Fed Beef Initiative (NGBI) and Sodexo, is launching a transformative project to establish a sustainable local grass-fed beef supply chain for its campus dining facilities. This initiative, made possible by generous support from the Henry P. Kendall Foundation, aims to strengthen and invest in Vermont’s food system while furthering VTSU’s commitment to education, sustainability, and community impact.
Central to this work is VTSU’s leadership in agricultural education through the Center for Agriculture & Food Entrepreneurship (CAFE). Established to strengthen Vermont’s agricultural and forest economy, CAFE develops and supports a skilled workforce through flexible learning options, hands-on training, and industry-recognized credentials.
A cornerstone of CAFE is the 1787 Butchery, a state-of-the-art meat processing and teaching facility opened in May 2025. The 1787 Butchery provides practical experience in meat science and processing, positioning VTSU as a hub for education and entrepreneurship in Vermont’s food system.
Currently, Sodexo sources only ground beef locally for VTSU, while other cuts come from national suppliers at rising costs. This partnership will change that by creating a robust local supply chain that benefits students, farmers, and the Vermont economy. The 1787 Butchery will process whole animals for campus kitchens, serving as a living laboratory for students enrolled in CAFE programs, from one-day workshops to multi-week certifications and apprenticeships.
“The 1787 Butchery was built to meet the growing need for qualified meat processors throughout New England, and to spark innovation in Vermont’s food system. This partnership with NGBI connects education and entrepreneurship with regenerative beef production in a novel way,” said Glenn Evans, Executive Director of Vermont State University’s Center for Agriculture & Food Entrepreneurship. “We’re creating hands-on opportunities for students while building a resilient supply chain that benefits farmers, campus dining, and Vermont’s rural economy.”
Ridge Shinn, Executive Director of the Northeast Grass-Fed Beef Initiative, shared, “This partnership opens doors for regenerative farmers, strengthens Vermont’s rural economy, and ensures students can enjoy high-quality, locally raised beef that reflects the best of our region. Together, we’re working to build a supply chain that supports healthy land, thriving farms, and vibrant communities across the Northeast.”
The VTSU and NGBI partnership will collaborate with local producers through the Vermont Grass Farmers Association and New England Grazing Network.
“The Northeast Grass-Fed Beef Initiative’s 2025 New England Food Vision Prize reflects our region’s shared commitment to building a stronger, more resilient, and equitable food system,” said Andy Kendall, Executive Director of the Henry P. Kendall Foundation. “This project to establish a local grass-fed beef supply chain for Vermont State University is a powerful example of what that vision looks like in action. By connecting small-scale farmers and innovative campus leaders, this effort strengthens Vermont’s agricultural economy while expanding access to truly local food across five campuses. It demonstrates how institutional purchasing can unlock long-term, systems-level change and why investing in regional supply chains is essential to achieving a vibrant, sustainable New England food future.”
By the end of 2027, partners anticipate a fully established supply chain that operates independently, ensuring long-term sustainability and serving as a model for regional food systems.
About Vermont State University
Vermont State University (VTSU) provides a high-quality, flexible, and affordable education for students seeking associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees, certificates, and in-demand professional credentials. The university builds upon a history of public higher education in Vermont dating back to 1787. More information about Vermont State University can be found here: VermontState.edu
About Northeast Grass-Fed Beef Initiative
The Northeast Grass-Fed Beef Initiative (NGBI) partners with farmers to support transitions to regenerative, cattle-based systems that help restore ecosystem health and revitalize rural economies. NGBI’s impact region includes the entire 12-state northeast. More information about NGBI can be found here: ngbi.org