Farm to Community Food Hubs Grant

The Farm to Community Food Hubs Grant Program, managed by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), supports the creation and expansion of community food hubs in California. These hubs play a critical role in increasing the purchasing of locally grown and environmentally sustainable food by public institutions, such as schools, hospitals, and food banks. The program's purpose is to enhance the local food system economy, support small farmers, improve climate resilience, and promote fair wages for workers within the food system. The grant has two funding tracks to support the planning and infrastructure needs of these hubs: Track 1, for planning activities, and Track 2, for infrastructure and operational costs.

The grant is designed for various entities including non-profit organizations, public school districts, Tribal organizations, cooperatives, and food-related businesses. Track 1 supports planning activities related to new or expanded community food hubs, while Track 2 focuses on expanding operational and infrastructure capacity. Applicants are expected to demonstrate how their projects will serve a variety of local producers, particularly those that are small-scale, socially disadvantaged, or Indigenous. Priority will be given to projects that emphasize distributing food to public institutions and nonprofit organizations, with special consideration given to projects led by California Native American Tribes.

There is no requirement for matching funds, and grant recipients may receive up to 100% of the total project cost. The funds cover a wide range of activities including planning, market assessments, feasibility studies, equipment purchases, construction, and staff training. However, certain activities, such as direct-to-consumer sales or donations, are excluded. Both tracks prioritize projects that incorporate sustainable practices and ensure that financial sustainability is part of the project plan.

Grant applications are due by 5 p.m. PDT on Monday, April 14, 2025. Applicants must submit completed materials via email to cafoodhubs@cdfa.ca.gov. CDFA offers application assistance through bi-monthly virtual office hours and feedback for draft applications. Evaluation of applications will be based on various criteria such as the project's alignment with program goals, financial sustainability, the scope of community food hub operations, and the potential impact on local food producers and buyers. The review process will take place between April and May 2025, with award announcements expected in June 2025. The grant term for Track 1 is up to 24 months, while Track 2 grants may last up to 60 months.

For questions, applicants can reach out to the CDFA via email at cafoodhubs@cdfa.ca.gov or by attending virtual office hours hosted by the CDFA.