The Food Retail Improvement and Development Grant Program (formerly the Good Food Access Program) was created “to increase the availability of and access to affordable, nutritious, and culturally appropriate food, including fresh fruits and vegetables, for underserved communities.” (MINN. STAT. 17.1017, amended by Laws of Minnesota, Chapter 34, Article 3, Section 1)
This program helps grocery stores and small food retailers across Minnesota better serve their communities – especially communities with limited access to fresh, nutritious food. The program does this through two primary grant opportunities:
- Retailer Equipment and Infrastructure – for stores to upgrade their spaces or purchase equipment (like freezers, shelving, or refrigeration) that make it easier to stock and sell nutritious, affordable, and culturally relevant foods.
- Technical Assistance Provider Support – for organizations that work directly with food retailers, helping them with business support, training, or other specialized assistance.
Funding for the FRIDG Program comes through the Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) Program, with an allocation of $1 million per year in Fiscal Years 2026 and 2027.
FRIDG Program Advisory Committee
The Advisory Committee ensures the program is achieving its goals. Members provide feedback on grant guidelines, offer input on eligibility and application processes, and help make sure the program meets the needs of small retailers and the communities they serve.
Visit the FRIDG Program Advisory Committee page to learn more about the committee and how it works.
