HFFI Awards $3M to Boost Food Access; Next Deadline August 18

Independent grocers are vital to their communities, offering more than just groceries — they provide community connection and support. Programs like the Healthy Food Financing Initiative (HFFI) help strengthen these roles, especially in underserved areas. Recently, the HFFI Food Access and Retail Expansion (FARE) Fund announced that they awarded nearly $3 million to food retailers. The deadline for the next round of funding, and final round for 2025, has been extended to August 18. Keep reading to learn if your store may be eligible.

What Is the HFFI FARE Fund?

The HFFI FARE Fund is designed to invest in the food retail supply chain, especially in underserved communities. It supports innovative business models that process, distribute, and sell healthy, fresh, and affordable food where it’s needed most. These one-time capital grants help food retailers develop or expand their businesses in ways that improve food access and promote long-term sustainability.

Who Received Funding in Round 1?

Grants were awarded to 14 projects across 14 states. One notable recipient was Retaaza, a women- and minority-owned social enterprise and IGA member in Georgia. Their project focuses on opening a new retail market in Atlanta’s Five Points neighborhood. With a mission rooted in sustainability and food security, Retaaza is bridging the gap between local farmers and underserved residents. Their new store will:

• Implement a SNAP-doubling program to make produce more affordable
• Partner with corner stores to distribute fresh product
• Offer grocery delivery to residents with limited mobility

The HFFI grant will support planning, construction, and equipment costs.

What’s Coming Next & How To Apply

The Reinvestment Fund is currently accepting inquiry forms for the final round of implementation grants for 2024–2025. If your store serves an underserved community and you’re looking to expand your fresh food offerings, improve distribution, or launch a new initiative that supports food access, this is your opportunity to secure funding. See eligibility requirements here.

In total, the HFFI FARE Fund will provide $60 million over five years through flexible loans, grants, and technical assistance.

Deadline to apply: Monday, August 18, 2025, by 11:59 PM ET.
Visit investinginfood.com/fare-fund for the full RFA, eligibility requirements, and application instructions.

Additional Regional Support: Southeast Food Forward

In a related initiative, the Reinvestment Fund also awarded nearly $1 million earlier this month through its Southeast Food Forward (SFF) program. This funding supports community-driven, cooperative-inspired business models in 10 Southeastern states. These grants and technical assistance packages help post-harvest food supply chain businesses increase healthy food access across the region. Two IGA members were awarded funding: City of Refuge and Retaaza. See the full list of award recipients here.