The Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) is soliciting applications from qualified food-related businesses seeking to expand their existing operations through the opening of a new location in an area designated as having low food access (as set forth in the Act), with priority given to locations in Ward 7 and Ward 8. The purpose of the Food Access Fund (FAF) is to increase equitable access to fresh, healthy, and affordable food by securing grocery stores and restaurants, fast casual restaurants and other food access points in areas with low food access, with a focus on Wards 7 and 8. DMPED anticipates these funds will create 6-8 new food access points, putting 95-99% of Ward 7 and 8 residents within a mile of a food access point. The FAF Grant will support qualified businesses with capital for tenant improvements related to expansion of operations into a new location in an area identified as having low food access (as set forth in the Act), with priority given to locations in Ward 7 or Ward 8.

The grant will be awarded pursuant to the Local Food Access Grants Emergency Amendment Act of 2021 (B24-0309), and any subsequent temporary or permanent legislation (Act). DMPED will award up to a maximum of $23,647,000.00 in grants to the successful grantees under this program.

Submission Deadline: Wednesday, August 18, 2021, at 5:00 pm (EST)

Learn more and apply!