The application period for this program is closed.
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
Minimum award: $5,000
Maximum award: $75,000
A cash match is not required.
Applying
The application period for fiscal year (FY) 2025 closed on January 16, 2025. The FY 2026 RFP is expected to be released in late December 2025 or early January 2026. You can read the FY 2025 Good Food Access Equipment RFP (PDF) for an overview of last year’s grant. This is subject to change for FY 2026.
Contact us if you need this information in an alternative format.
