Food Retail Improvement and Development Grants (FRIDG): Retailer Equipment and Infrastructure

The Food Retail Improvement and Development Grant (FRIDG) Program, formerly known as the Good Food Access Program (GFAP), increases the availability of and access to affordable, nutritious, and culturally appropriate foods (including fruits and vegetables) for underserved communities in low- and moderate-income areas. FRIDG: Retailer Equipment and Infrastructure Grants help grocery stores and small food retailers make physical improvements and purchase equipment to stimulate sales of such foods.

Eligible applicants

The following groups are eligible to apply:

• For-profit and nonprofit grocery stores
• Small food retailers, such as corner stores, convenience stores, farmers' markets, mobile food markets, or retail food outlets operated by an emergency food program or food hub

All applicants must sell nutritious and culturally appropriate foods (including fresh fruits and vegetables) and serve an underserved community. The request for proposals (RFP) outlines additional requirements, such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) authorization.

Underserved communities are defined as a geographic area or group of people whose food access needs are not met by existing retail options. Examples include:

• A low-income and moderate-income area
• A census tract that is federally designated as a food desert by the United States Department of Agriculture
• An area where there is a limited number of grocery stores
• A group of people with particular needs such as the aging population, people with disabilities, or people with special dietary needs or preferences, or as otherwise defined by the commissioner

Eligible projects

Funds must be used for projects that will sustain or increase the sales of nutritious and culturally appropriate foods. Eligible expenses include:

• Equipment (like coolers and freezers)
• Installation costs for eligible equipment
• Costs for physical improvements needed for installing equipment (like electrical or architectural work)
• Costs associated with creating, renovating, or expanding food retail space

Amount available

In Fiscal Year (FY) 2026, we expect to award approximately $725,000 using a competitive review process.

Minimum award: $5,000
Maximum award: $75,000

A 25% cash match is required.

How to apply

Applications are due by 4 p.m. Central Time (CT) on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. Late applications will not be accepted.

• Before you apply, read the FY2026 FRIDG: Equipment & Infrastructure Grant RFP (PDF) for eligibility, requirements, and priorities.
• Apply for the FRIDG: Equipment & Infrastructure Grant.
  • If you are a new user, you’ll need to create an account first. Use this how-to guide (PDF) to help set up your account.
  • Once you’re logged in, select “FRIDG: Retailer Equipment and Infrastructure Grant FY26”.
  • After you have submitted your application, you will receive a confirmation email. Contact MDA.AGRIGrants@state.mn.us if you do not receive this email.
• Apply early so there is enough time to get technical assistance if needed. It’s best practice to submit your application at least 24 hours in advance.

Contact us if you need this information in an alternative format.

Timeline and deadlines