We're no longer accepting applications for this year's program. Details on this page apply to the Fiscal Year 2023 round of funding. The next application period opens in January 2024.
The Good Food Access Program (GFAP) Equipment and Physical Improvement Grant 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. Grants help grocery stores and small food retailers make physical improvements and purchase equipment to stimulate sales of such foods.
Applicant eligibility
The following groups are eligible to apply:
- For-profit and non-profit 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 be engaged in the sale of nutritious and culturally appropriate foods (including fresh fruits and vegetables). The Request for Proposals (RFP) outlines additional requirements of applicants and grantees, such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) authorization.
Project eligibility
GFAP funding can be used to purchase equipment (such as coolers and freezers) and to make physical improvements.
Projects must serve census-designated food deserts or low- or moderate-income areas that have substantial subpopulations (such as the elderly or disabled) who have low supermarket access. To determine your project's eligibility:
- Visit the U.S. Census Bureau TIGERweb viewer.
- Type in the address where the project will be occurring.
- On the upper left side of the screen, click the icon labeled “Layers” and select the box labeled “Census Tracts and Blocks.”
- On the map, locate the census tract and number for the project location.
- Visit the Good Food Access Eligible Areas page. If your census tract number is listed on this page, your location is a food desert or low-or moderate-income area and is eligible for GFAP funding. You may also check the GFAP Ineligible Areas list to confirm that your census tract is not eligible. Projects may qualify if they can reasonably justify how they serve residents of eligible areas.
Amount Available
We expect to award up to $320,750 in Fiscal Year 2023.
Minimum award: $2,500
Maximum award: $50,000
Applying
The application period for the 2023 grant has ended. We expect the next application period to begin in January 2024; check back for updated program materials.
To learn more about the program and start planning for next year, read last year's Request for Proposals (PDF). This grant program is subject to change so you should read the updated RFP when it's posted. You can also view our list of past projects and request a copy of an application to help you prepare. Contact us if you need this information in an alternative format.
