Community Food Microgrants

The Community Food Microgrant, administered by the Salt Lake City Sustainability Department, is a local funding opportunity designed to enhance food access equity within Salt Lake City. This initiative, formally established in 2023, supports individual and community-led efforts that expand access to fresh, healthy, affordable, and culturally relevant food across the city. The microgrant is part of the city's broader vision to create a sustainable and resilient local food environment where residents actively participate in shaping and benefiting from equitable food systems. This program offers two tiers of funding: Home Food Production Grants of $250 for individuals or households, and Community Grants of up to $5,000 for community organizations, grassroots groups, small businesses, and other eligible entities operating within Salt Lake City. The Community Food Microgrant is specifically intended to support projects that purchase equipment, supplies, professional services, or offer compensation tied directly to food access work. Examples of qualifying activities include community gardening, infrastructure development, educational outreach, and culturally relevant food initiatives. Priority consideration is given to projects that align with the goals outlined in the SLC Resident Food Equity Advisors’ Final Report (June 2021). The program prioritizes projects under four major categories: Growing Food, Inclusive Outreach and Communications, Dignified Food Access, and Healthy Food Environments. Applications that serve or are led by communities historically marginalized by the food system—including people of color, low-income residents, unsheltered individuals, veterans, LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, people with disabilities, and others—are especially encouraged. While prioritization is given to these groups, it is not a requirement for eligibility. Only one application is accepted per household or organization per cycle. The 2026 application window closes on March 2nd at 12:00 PM. Applications can be submitted in various formats including online forms, fillable PDFs, paper copies, or through recorded audio or video responses. The program ensures full accessibility by accepting applications in any language and offering the option to submit responses through live conversations (phone, video, or in-person). Support with interpretation and translation is also available by request. Submissions are reviewed by a selection committee composed of Salt Lake City staff and community members. Projects are evaluated based on how well they increase access to healthy food, promote dignity and community self-reliance, and reduce barriers to food growing, preparation, and education. Award decisions are expected between March and April. Selected applicants must comply with applicable regulations, sign a funding agreement, and attend an orientation session. Grant recipients are required to submit a short report summarizing their project outcomes before the end of the year. Applicants must ensure their project is located within Salt Lake City or directly benefits its residents. Ineligible applicants include government agencies, political groups, and media organizations. Application questions require basic organizational information, project descriptions, budget outlines, and timelines. If awarded, recipients must submit a W-9 form, register with the city to receive funds, and may be asked to provide public-facing documentation such as photos or stories of their project, although participation in publicity is optional.