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 business 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 8. The grant will be awarded pursuant to the Local Food Access Grants Emergency Amendment Act of 2021 (DC Official Code Sec. 1-328.04 (o).).
Purpose: The purpose of the Food Access Fund (FAF) Grant is to increase equitable access to fresh, healthy, and affordable food by securing grocery stores, and restaurants; support existing small businesses; attract new businesses; increase the District’s tax base; create new job opportunities for District residents; and transform designated emerging commercial corridors into thriving and inviting neighborhood centers. 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.
Award: In the fourth an final round of funding, DMPED will award up to a maximum of $5,000,000 in grants to successful grantees under this program.
Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) - FY2023 Food Access Fund Grant Program - Round 4
Grant Identification No.: DMPED – FY23 FAF
Request for Application (RFA) Release Date: December 19, 2022
Please click here to start your application
- Food Access Fund Eligibility Map
- Frequently Asked Questions
- FY2023 Food Access Fund Information Session presentation - December 19, 2022
- FY2023 Food Access Fund Information Session Recording - December 19, 2022
Submission Details
To be considered for funding, applicants must apply online at the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development GrantVantage Online Application Portal.
Online Application
For the application process, applicants will submit proposals using the online grant management system at: GrantVantage - Application Process.
- Applications will be submitted online through the GrantVantage system. Applicants will be required to follow a series of steps to submit their application:
- Create an Applicant Profile
- Answer applicant questions
- Complete a Budget Template
Applicants will send technical support questions to GrantVantage at [email protected]. Technical assistance will be available during business hours 9:00 am - 6:00 pm EST.
For questions about the grant content, applicants will submit questions to [email protected].
