This request for applications (RFA) will provide funds organizations and collaborations that support health equity through opposing corporate consolidation in the food system and/or contributing to the infrastructure necessary to nurture equitable and sustainable local food systems. Health equity means that every person has a fair opportunity to get what they need. Our current industrial food system is inequitable, dominated by corporate consolidation which limits and standardizes all aspects of the system from farming, processing, packaging, transporting, selling, consuming, and disposing of food. Federal and state laws, local regulations, and prevailing mindsets that value quantity and profit over community and environmental well-being present numerous barriers to thriving local food systems. These barriers concentrate power and wealth in the hands of a few, while undermining the ability of communities to exercise control over what food is produced and how, where it’s sold, and how much it costs. A shift toward local, equitable, and sustainable food systems would support a variety of offerings that are tailored to maximize health and well-being. 

Applications should present ideas that build or sustain infrastructure and interconnections among diverse food system participants (producers, laborers, local government, consumers, etc.) that serve as the foundation to vibrant local communities and economies.

Projects could be wide ranging and include:

• Development of shared infrastructure (convening, knowledge sharing, training, etc.)
• Organizing
• Advocacy
• Legal defense

MFH’s award budget for this RFA is $2.5 million. We anticipate awarding 1-5 grants with flexible timelines, depending on applicant’s need.

How to Apply

Please contact Katie Kaufmann, Senior Strategist – Food Justice Initiative, kkaufmann@mffh.org, to connect about this funding opportunity.