NOTICE OF FUNDING AVAILABILITY
FY22 Food Access Fund Grant
Grant Identification No.: DMPED – FY22 FAF
Request for Application (RFA) Release Date: December 6, 2021
On a rolling basis, 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 (B24-0309), and any subsequent temporary or permanent legislation (Act).
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: DMPED will award up to a maximum of $7,000,000.00 in grants to successful grantees under this program. Funding Priorities: The FY22 FAF Grant identified the following program funding priorities. 1. To improve access to food options for residents of areas that currently have low access by encouraging existing food-related businesses to expand their operations to a new location in areas with low food access (as set forth in the Act), with priority given to locations in Ward 7 or Ward 8. 2. To expand the local food ecosystem and support fresh food retailers and providers through grants. Eligible Applicants: For the purpose of the Request for Applications, Eligible Applicants will be defined as one of the following:
Contact Name: DMPED Grants Team Phone: 202.727-6365 Email: [email protected]
Amended Deadline for Electronic Submission: Applicants must submit a completed online application to DMPED via the GIFTS online system no later than 5:00 PM EST on Wednesday, August 25, 2021.
