State Food and Nutrition Grants

Grants for Workforce Development Innovation Initiatives in the District of Columbia are available to support innovative solutions for residents to enter and sustain employment, ultimately contributing to the District's economy. The grant program encompasses various areas such as youth programs, initiatives for returning citizens and adults with barriers to employment, labor market research, workforce and federal programs, labor standards, unemployment insurance outreach, paid family leave support, and infrastructure job assistance. Service categories include work readiness, job readiness, occupational skills development, job placement assistance, research, and education/outreach efforts.

The Community Climate Action Grant program, spearheaded by Albemarle County, aims to foster local projects that bolster the community's capacity to diminish greenhouse gas emissions. This initiative directly aligns with the county's broader mission to implement its Climate Action Plan, which was adopted in 2020. By leveraging external community resources and local groups, the program seeks to make climate action a more inclusive and participatory process, thereby extending the reach and impact of governmental efforts to combat climate change. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are community-based nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, or those affiliated with a 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor, that are principally and physically located in Albemarle County. Groups located outside the county may also apply if they can demonstrate that their services will primarily benefit people or places within Albemarle County. The impact goals are centered on tangibly advancing the goals, strategies, and actions outlined in the County’s Climate Action Plan, with a clear focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing carbon sequestration. The program prioritizes projects that contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions across various sectors, including transportation, buildings, waste, agriculture, and natural areas. Additionally, it supports initiatives that increase carbon sequestration in agriculture or natural systems. The grant explicitly aims to achieve four key program goals: reduce greenhouse gas emissions, advance equity and inclusion, build community, and support thoughtful and achievable projects. These goals underscore the county's strategic priorities, emphasizing not just environmental impact but also social equity and community engagement as integral components of effective climate action. Expected outcomes include a measurable reduction in greenhouse gas emissions within Albemarle County, an increase in community participation and inclusivity in climate action efforts, and the successful implementation of diverse projects that align with the county’s Climate Action Plan. The program's theory of change posits that by empowering and funding local community groups, the county can harness a wider range of innovative solutions and foster a more widespread commitment to climate resilience. Grant requests can range from $5,000 to $25,000, with a total of $100,000 available for 2024, indicating a strategic investment in multiple, impactful local initiatives rather than a single large-scale project.

The Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) is offering the Community Tree Planting Program, funded by the Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program (TAEP) through the 2008 State Legislature. This grant program is administered by the Division of Forestry’s Urban and Community Forestry Program. The core mission of this grant is to increase the tree resource base in cities and towns across Tennessee, focusing on the functional benefits of urban trees rather than solely on beautification. The primary beneficiaries of this program are communities and local units of government, non-profit organizations, and elementary, secondary, and higher education institutions within Tennessee. The impact goal is to enhance the state's urban tree resources to provide direct cost-saving benefits to communities. These benefits include energy savings through shading, storm water mitigation, rain interception, and improved air quality through filtration and absorption. The program's priorities and focuses are explicitly not beautification but rather the practical, environmental services that trees provide. It emphasizes that trees are "work horses for communities." Recommended goals and objectives for applicants include statements about urban trees providing cooler temperatures, cleaner air, reduced flooding and erosion, improved human health, and food and shelter for wildlife. Expected outcomes and measurable results revolve around the increase in the tree resource base and the subsequent realization of the aforementioned environmental and economic benefits. While specific metrics are not detailed in the provided text, the focus on quantifiable benefits like energy savings and storm water mitigation implies an expectation of measurable improvements in these areas. The grant contracts will run from December 1, 2024, to April 30, 2025, suggesting that the initial outcomes will be assessed within this timeframe. Eligible applicants can apply for grants ranging from $500 to $20,000, which further indicates a focus on smaller, community-level projects with clear, achievable objectives.

The Make it Minnesota Marketing Investment Cost-Share Program, funded by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture's AGRI Program, supports Minnesota-based consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies in food, beverage, or pet food sectors. The program reimburses 50% of eligible marketing investments up to a maximum of $3,000 per company per fiscal year. This funding can be used for in-store demonstrations, Minnesota Pavilion events, and B2B tradeshow costs, among other high-impact marketing activities. The program aims to help these companies increase their market presence both domestically and internationally.

The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets is offering the Trade Show Assistance Grants program to support Vermont-based agricultural and forestry businesses in expanding their market reach. These grants are designed to offset the costs of participating in trade shows that connect businesses with wholesale buyers and open new domestic and international markets. The program provides matching grants for up to five trade shows within the eligible period, allowing businesses to request between $2,000 and $5,000 in reimbursements for shows held between April 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026. However, businesses cannot apply for funding to support attendance at trade shows they have participated in five or more times previously. Eligibility requirements include being registered with the Vermont Secretary of State and operational for at least one year, having headquarters or principal operations within Vermont, maintaining at least three wholesale accounts, and ensuring products meet the Vermont Local Definition as outlined in Act 129. Trade shows must target out-of-state buyers and operate in a business-to-business format. Shows that are direct-to-consumer are not eligible, although exceptions are made for regional or international trade shows held in Vermont. Applicants must also demonstrate a 1:1 cash match for their budget, as the grant will reimburse up to 50% of eligible costs. Approved expenses for reimbursement include travel and accommodation costs, booth design and fees, marketing materials, shipping, and other associated costs. The application process is open until January 20, 2025, at 11:59 PM, with notifications of awards expected by mid-February 2025. Applicants can include up to five trade shows in their marketing plans and are encouraged to carefully align their proposals with the program's requirements. To apply, businesses must register in WebGrants if they have not done so previously, review the WebGrants Application Guide, and submit their applications through the platform. The submission period runs from December 6, 2024, to January 20, 2025. Detailed instructions are provided in the Request for Applications, available on the program’s website. Businesses are encouraged to prepare their applications early to ensure timely submission and maximize their chances of securing support for their trade show activities.

This track of the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) program provides approximately $1 million for grants aimed at purchasing equipment necessary for the middle of the food supply chain activities in Vermont. The grants range from $30,000 to $100,000 with no match requirement. Applications for this track are set to open in late August 2024 and close in early October 2024, with grant activities beginning in early 2025.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to local public health agencies in Minnesota to improve food security and promote local food economies in low-income and disadvantaged communities through regional collaboration.

The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) Bureau of  Nutrition and Physical Activity (BNPA) administers funds provided by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for the operation of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Program (BFPC) for the State of Arizona. The USDA nutrition programs are discretionary, and each provides a specific service to women, infants, and children who are low-income and at nutritional risk. The overall goal of all the USDA Nutrition Programs is to increase food security and reduce hunger by providing eligible participants access to nourishing food and supportive nutrition education. ADHS is working with the counties to provide WIC services, and this opportunity is to provide additional community support as needed.  Financial Notes: N/A

This funding opportunity provides financial support to local governments, conservation districts, non-profits, and organized private entities in Colorado for the management and eradication of noxious weeds.

This grant provides financial support to schools and early learning services in Washington state for purchasing and preparing nutritious, locally sourced foods to improve children's meal programs and promote healthy eating habits.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to New York-based nonprofits, municipalities, school districts, and BOCES for projects that improve school meal facilities, promote local agriculture, and address food insecurity across multiple districts.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to designated Weed Management Areas in California for managing invasive plant species through collaborative projects that engage local communities and stakeholders.

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is offering the International Medical Graduate Career Guidance and Support Program to address barriers faced by international medical graduates (IMGs) in becoming licensed and practicing medicine in Minnesota. This initiative aligns with the broader mission of strengthening the state's healthcare workforce, expanding access to care, fostering healthy communities, and providing culturally responsive care to underserved populations. The program aims to integrate the potential of IMGs into Minnesota's health system, recognizing their significant contributions. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are immigrant international medical graduates who are seeking to enter the Minnesota health workforce. The program's impact goals are centered on supporting these IMGs through career guidance and support services, ultimately facilitating their licensure and practice in the state. By doing so, the program contributes to a more diverse and robust healthcare workforce capable of meeting the diverse needs of Minnesota's communities. The program's priorities and focuses include awarding grants to eligible nonprofit organizations and postsecondary educational institutions. These organizations must be located in Minnesota, be in good financial standing, and demonstrate strong experience in working with immigrants and refugees, working with IMGs, and providing health care career guidance and support. This ensures that the awarded funds are channeled through organizations with proven capabilities in supporting the target population. Expected outcomes include an increase in the number of IMGs successfully integrated into the Minnesota health workforce. Measurable results will be tied to the number of awards distributed (estimated one or two awards) and the range of funding provided ($100,000 to $400,000 per award, with an estimated total of $400,000-$500,000 available). While specific quantitative metrics for IMG licensure are not explicitly detailed, the success of the program will be evident in the enhanced support and guidance offered to IMGs, leading to their increased participation in the state's healthcare system. The program's strategic priority is to address a critical workforce gap and promote equitable access to healthcare for all Minnesotans.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for California-based industrial facilities and related entities to implement advanced technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance energy efficiency, particularly benefiting low-income and disadvantaged communities.

This grant provides funding for Kentucky teachers and schools to cover transportation costs for students traveling to high-quality arts programs.

The Hawaii Department of Agriculture (HDOA) is offering the Micro-Grant for Food Security Program (MGFSP) for its fourth consecutive year. This program, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture under the 2018 Farm Bill, has a total of $3,576,470 available. The grant aims to support small-scale gardening, herding, and livestock operations, aligning with a mission to enhance the quantity and quality of locally grown food, particularly in food-insecure communities. This initiative directly supports food security and local agricultural development within Hawaii. The MGFSP targets individuals, including backyard farmers, with a grant amount of $5,000 per applicant, and organizations registered to do business in Hawaii, such as Native Hawaiian groups, nonprofits, and federally funded educational facilities, with a grant amount of $10,000 per applicant. Individual applicants must be Hawaii residents, at least 18 years old, and heads of household, while previous MGFSP awardees are ineligible. Organizations receiving awards are required to provide matching funds of at least 10% of the grant amount, which cannot be derived from other federal sources. The program seeks to empower both individuals and organizations to contribute to local food production and security. The program's priorities and focus areas include small-scale gardening, herding, and livestock operations, and apiary. Funded activities for small-scale gardening can involve purchasing tools, equipment, soil, seeds, plants, canning equipment, refrigeration, composting equipment, and supplies for hydroponic and aeroponic farming. For small-scale herding and livestock operations, funds can be used for purchasing animals or buying, erecting, or repairing fencing. Apiary support includes bees, bee boxes, education, and expanding food markets. These diverse areas reflect a comprehensive approach to fostering local food systems. Expected outcomes of the MGFSP include an increase in the quantity and quality of locally grown food within food-insecure communities across Hawaii. Measurable results will be seen through the implementation of small-scale gardening, herding, and livestock operations, and apiary development. By providing financial support for essential resources and equipment, the program anticipates a direct positive impact on food self-sufficiency and the resilience of local food systems. The grant duration is four years, allowing for sustained development and the achievement of long-term goals.

The FreshConnect CSA for SNAP program, managed by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, aims to increase access to fresh, locally grown produce for SNAP participants by partially subsidizing the cost of CSA shares. The program supports New York farmers and strengthens community bonds. A total of $250,000 in funding is available, with each project receiving up to $50,000. Applications are accepted until August 27, 2024, and awards are announced on a rolling basis.

This funding opportunity is designed to support projects that improve the competitiveness of specialty crops grown in Nebraska, benefiting farmers, producers, and agricultural organizations in the state.

The MassDEP Reduce, Reuse, Repair Micro-Grant program offers grants of up to $10,000 to various entities, including for-profit and non-profit organizations, regional authorities, municipalities, and schools/colleges in Massachusetts. The program's core mission is to support short-term waste reduction projects across all counties within the state. This initiative directly aligns with a broader strategic goal of environmental protection by fostering sustainable practices and extending the lifespan of products, thereby diverting waste from landfills. The program's focus on reduction, reuse, and repair is a fundamental aspect of circular economy principles, which are critical to the foundation's theory of change in promoting a more sustainable Massachusetts. The program targets a diverse group of beneficiaries, including businesses, non-profits, governmental bodies, and educational institutions within Massachusetts. The primary impact goal is to significantly reduce waste generation and prolong product utility through donation, rescue, reuse, and repair activities. This aims to create a ripple effect, encouraging communities and organizations to adopt more environmentally responsible behaviors. By providing financial support for specific projects, MassDEP seeks to empower these entities to implement innovative solutions that contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable environment. The program prioritizes projects that directly contribute to waste reduction and product longevity. This includes initiatives such as purchasing inventory technology for operational efficiencies, developing programs for collecting and redistributing reusable items (clothing, electronics, home goods), implementing reusable transport packaging systems, converting to reusable food service ware, installing bulk dispensing systems, and establishing or expanding repair programs for furniture, appliances, electronics, and textiles. Additionally, the program supports the creation of food donation and distribution programs, community repair training, deconstruction initiatives, and the promotion of tool-lending libraries and community repair events. These diverse focuses ensure a comprehensive approach to waste reduction across various sectors and community needs. Expected outcomes include a measurable decrease in waste sent to landfills and an increase in the lifespan of various products through their reuse and repair. Projects are anticipated to result in enhanced operational efficiencies for participating organizations, greater accessibility to reusable goods for communities, and the establishment of new, or expansion of existing, waste reduction infrastructure. The program also aims to foster a culture of sustainability through education and community engagement, leading to long-term behavioral changes. Measurable results could include metrics on tons of waste diverted, number of items repaired or reused, and the reach of educational and training programs. Ultimately, these efforts contribute to MassDEP's strategic priority of promoting environmental stewardship and resource conservation across Massachusetts.

Comcast RISE is a grant program established in 2020 to aid small businesses severely affected by COVID-19, helping them to recover and flourish. The program returned in 2024, expanding its reach to a broader spectrum of small businesses while maintaining its core focus on diversity, inclusion, and community investment. Its overarching mission is to foster economic growth within businesses and their communities, aligning with a strategic priority to support underserved or underrepresented small business owners. The program specifically targets small businesses that are at least 51% owned by an individual aged 18 or older who is the primary decision-maker, actively engaged in daily operations, and whose business is independently owned, not a franchise, has been operating for at least three years, and has been revenue-generating for at least 12 months. It also specifies geographical locations in Atlanta, GA; Southern Colorado; Houston, TX; Jacksonville, FL; and Richmond, VA. Businesses with more than 100 employees or those falling into categories like non-profits, religious organizations, political advertisers, or businesses related to marijuana, firearms, tobacco, or adult entertainment are ineligible. In 2024, Comcast RISE aims to award 500 recipients across five cities with a comprehensive grant package. This package includes a $5,000 monetary grant, a creative and media campaign valued at approximately $17,500, a technology makeover with an approximate retail value of $7,500, access to 12 months of LinkedIn Learning for business education, and business consultation services. The focus is on providing tangible resources that directly contribute to the growth and sustainability of small businesses. The expected outcomes and measurable results include direct financial support through the cash grant, enhanced market presence and customer reach through the media campaign, improved operational efficiency and digital capabilities via the technology makeover, and strengthened business acumen through educational resources and consultation. The theory of change posits that by providing a multi-faceted support system, Comcast RISE empowers small businesses to overcome challenges, achieve sustained growth, create jobs, and contribute to the economic vitality of their local communities, ultimately fostering a more diverse and inclusive business landscape.