Grants Available For Improving Access To Fresh Food In Communities

The application window has opened for the Food Retail Improvement and Development Grant (FRIDG) program through the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.

The program, formerly known as the Good Food Access Program, helps grocery stores and small food retailers provide fresh food, especially to smaller communities. The program can be used for equipment purchases, employee training, permanent fixtures (at a Farmers Market, for example), workshops, or other technical support that the business may need.

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There is a competitive review of all applications, and all applications must have a 25% cash match.

Grant limits:

• $725,000 for Retailer Equipment and Infrastructure Grants.
• $200,000 for Technical Assistance Provider Support Grants.
• $5,000 to $75,000 for equipment and infrastructure projects.
• $5,000 to $100,000 for technical support projects.

Minnesota Department of Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen said the grant programs help support a vital link in Minnesota’s food supply chain.

Local grocery stores, convenience stores, and farmers’ markets play a critical role in keeping communities across the state connected to fresh, locally sourced food. We’re putting tax dollars to work to help Minnesota food retailers strengthen their operations and continue serving the communities that depend on them.

Applications for FRIDG grants must be submitted by 4 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10. For more information on eligibility, priorities, and how to apply, visit the MDA’s FRIDG program webpage.