For grocers, staying competitive requires more than selling fresh goods. It demands a commitment to workforce excellence and embracing new technology to handle federal food assistance programs. That is where the National Grocers Association Foundation (NGAF), the 501(c)(3) nonprofit arm of the National Grocers Association (NGA), comes in, providing free specialized, hands-on guidance at no cost to grocery stores of all sizes nationwide.
The NGA Foundation brings the NGA’s vision to life through comprehensive programs that support grocers in every state and at all stages of growth. Its dedicated team of experts provides educational and professional development opportunities and resources. Focusing on helping retailers thrive by navigating market and modernization challenges, the foundation’s team of experts provides world-class education, leadership and professional development opportunities, strengthening the industry’s talent pipelines.
Modernizing food access
Federal food assistance programs are not only essential for fighting food insecurity but are also an economic engine for communities nationwide. A major focus of the NGA Foundation has been helping grocers nationwide adopt U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) food assistance modernization initiatives.
“Federal food assistance has been an incredibly successful public-private partnership for decades,” said Chelsea Matzen, VP of the NGA Foundation. “It’s a proven solution that strengthens Main Street communities by helping American families access fresh, nutritious food nationwide.”
The NGA Foundation offers free, customized support for grocers looking to implement complex technology and integrate key federal programs, including:
- SNAP Online: Grocers receive guidance regarding the implementation of e-commerce solutions to provide a secure and seamless shopping experience for SNAP EBT participants;
- EBT chip-enabled cards: Test cards are given to grocers so they are ready to accept this new, more secure form of payment, which helps protect both their businesses and customers from skimming;
- EBT via mobile payments: Support is provided for mobile payment pilot programs, helping grocers understand the requirements for participation;
- Nutrition Incentives: Local programs like Double Up Food Bucks, produce prescriptions and Healthy Benefits Cards, who need assistance with participating in these programs and providing additional access to fresh produce for their customers; and
- Healthy Food Financing Initiative’s FARE Fund: Funding opportunity designed to support eligible food retail and supply chain projects. Grocers receive guidance on understanding eligibility requirements and identifying eligible uses of funds.
“NGA’s team of experts can help streamline the process of updating e-commerce solutions,” said Brielle Underwood, NGA’s group director for grants. “We share the information grocers need to make the right decisions for their businesses and offer secure shopping experiences for SNAP customers.”
In 2024, the NGA Foundation assisted 525 businesses in integrating modernization initiatives through the use of free webinars, one-on-one calls and resources designed to help businesses get set up for success, at no cost.
Investing in people and future leaders
The NGA Foundation remains committed to developing the grocery industry’s workforce. The organization views the future of community grocers as dependent on continuous learning and investment in talent. Core workforce development programs include:
- Executive Leadership Development Program: Facilitated and designed by Cornell University, this program helps upper-level management and executives prepare for future business challenges.
- Leadership Institute: Hosted at the prestigious George Washington’s Mount Vernon, this immersive experience blends executive leadership development with an exclusive opportunity to focus on the enduring principles of America’s first leader.
- Scholarships: The foundation awards annual scholarships to college students pursuing careers in the independent grocery industry.
- Women Grocers of America (WGA): Operating under the NGA Foundation, WGA is a professional development network dedicated to inspiring and empowering women in the industry.
By offering this specialized, complimentary support, the NGA Foundation is ensuring independent grocers remain competitive, grow their bottom line, create stable jobs and continue to serve as vital pillars of their communities across the United States.
Grocers are encouraged to reach out to the foundation to receive free, customized assistance for their store.
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