Minnesota grant boosts local food access

By Scout Nelson

To help underserved communities access fresh and culturally relevant food, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is accepting applications for its Good Food Access Program (GFAP) Equipment and Physical Improvement Grant.

This grant program is designed to aid grocery stores and smaller food retailers by providing funds for essential upgrades, ensuring better access to affordable, nutritious foods in low- and moderate-income areas across Minnesota.

The GFAP grant allows stores and retailers to purchase necessary equipment and make physical improvements that enhance food availability, including culturally diverse options. Eligible applicants can request funding from $5,000 up to $75,000 for projects that focus on increasing fresh food access. The MDA has allocated up to $935,000 for this funding round, focusing on projects that will positively impact community health and economic growth.

Examples of eligible projects under this program include acquiring and installing shelves, coolers, and freezers, establishing mobile food markets, building permanent infrastructure at farmers' markets, or investing in architectural improvements.

Priority will be given to projects that demonstrate a positive impact on the economic and health outcomes of underserved areas, especially those located in or near food deserts.

To qualify for this grant, applicants must serve communities within census tracts designated as food deserts or cater to a specific population, such as aging individuals, people with disabilities, or low- to moderate-income residents with limited supermarket access. Additionally, Native American tribal entities and organizations serving tribal communities are eligible and encouraged to apply.

Applications for the GFAP grant must be submitted by 4 p.m. Central Time on Thursday, January 16, 2025. Applicants are advised to review the detailed eligibility requirements and application process in the request for proposal (RFP) available on the GFAP Equipment and Physical Improvement Grant webpage.

This grant program is a significant opportunity for grocery stores and small retailers to contribute to the community’s access to healthy and affordable food while supporting the overall well-being of underserved populations in Minnesota.

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