Fresh Food Financing Initiative

The Pennsylvania Fresh Food Financing Initiative (PA FFFI) is a statewide public-private financing program overseen by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) and administered by The Food Trust. It is designed to increase access to healthy, affordable food and improve economic opportunities in low- to moderate-income (LMI) communities across Pennsylvania. The initiative supports grocery stores and food retail supply chain projects through one-time grants and loans, emphasizing areas with limited food retail options. Eligible projects can receive up to $50,000 in standard funding, while high-impact projects may qualify for up to $150,000. PA FFFI supports both for-profit and nonprofit organizations, cooperatives, and retail ventures operating or planning to launch in underserved areas. The program provides funding for a variety of project types, including brick-and-mortar grocery stores, mobile markets, co-ops, farmers markets, food hubs, and food supply chain ventures that have a direct-to-consumer component. Ineligible projects include emergency food operations without a retail component, restaurants, cafes, and agricultural projects lacking a direct retail connection. Funding can be used for site acquisition, predevelopment work, infrastructure improvements, equipment purchases, and other project-related costs. Applications are assessed based on their alignment with the program’s goals, the degree of need in the community, financial sustainability, and the applicant’s commitment to serving LMI populations. Projects located in areas with limited access to food retailers, strong SNAP usage, or high poverty rates are prioritized. Applications for the 2025–2026 cycle are due by November 1, 2025. Awards will be announced by March 2026, with contracts executed between April and May, and funds disbursed by June 1. The performance period for funded projects is 12 months, ending May 31, 2027. Grantees must submit quarterly progress reports and maintain clear documentation of purchases and outcomes, including data on customer reach, SNAP usage, and economic impact. Applicants must submit their applications through Jotform and be prepared for multiple rounds of virtual interviews. Required materials include financial projections, quotes, and ACH deposit details. The Food Trust and its partner community development financial institutions (CDFIs) offer additional support during the application and award processes. Priority is given to projects that source local products, offer living wage jobs, and align with local economic development goals. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact pafffi@thefoodtrust.org for guidance.

Focus on serving LMI areas with limited food access; demonstrate SNAP/WIC usage; include local sourcing; prepare detailed financials; align with community goals