The NGA Foundation has announced a new initiative offering free, grant writing support to eligible National Grocers Association members applying for funding through America’s Healthy Food Financing Initiative Food Access and Retail Expansion Fund, known as the HFFI FARE Fund.
The service, delivered through the NGA Foundation’s Grocer Solutions Center, is designed to help independent grocers expand, upgrade or open new stores in underserved communities.
“This free grant writing service for NGA members will advance access to fresh and affordable food where it is needed most,” said Brielle Underwood, group director of grants for the NGA Foundation. “We are excited to direct these resources to help NGA members build strong applications for these grants to continue to meet the needs of their communities. Participation is limited, and interested members are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.”
How To Apply
NGA members interested in the grant writing support can begin by completing a short quiz to determine whether their project qualifies for the FARE Fund. Eligible applicants may then submit a brief intake form for consideration. The NGA Foundation team will review submissions and follow up with selected participants.
Beyond grant writing assistance, the NGA Foundation offers a range of technical assistance services through the Grocer Solutions Center to help bring grocery retail projects to life. Foundation staff are available to guide members through available resources and support options.
The National Grocers Association is the national trade association representing the retail and wholesale community grocers that comprise the independent sector of the food distribution industry. The independent grocery sector accounts for about 1.2 percent of the nation’s overall economy and generates more than $250 billion in sales, 1.1 million jobs, $39 billion in wages and $36 billion in taxes. NGA members include retail and wholesale grocers in every congressional district across the country, as well as state grocers’ associations, manufacturers and service suppliers. For more information, visit nationalgrocers.org.
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