NGA Foundation Launches Free Grant Writing Support for Independent Grocers Pursuing FARE Fund Opportunities
April 9, 2026 | 6 min to read
Washington, D.C. – The NGA Foundation (NGAF) announced the launch of a new initiative offering free, customized grant writing support to eligible National Grocers Association (NGA) members applying for funding through America’s Healthy Food Financing Initiative (HFFI) Food Access and Retail Expansion (FARE) Fund.
This new service, delivered through the NGA Foundation’s Grocer Solutions Center, is designed to help independent grocers expand, upgrade, or open new stores in underserved communities.
“This free grant writing service for NGA members will advance access to fresh and affordable food where it is needed most,” said Brielle Underwood, NGAF’s group director of grants. “We are excited to direct these resources to help NGA members build strong applications for these grants to continue to meet the needs of their communities. Participation is limited, and interested members are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.”
How NGA members can apply:
Check Eligibility: Complete a short quiz to determine if your project qualifies for the FARE Fund.
Submit an Intake Form: Eligible applicants can submit a brief form for consideration. The NGAF team will review submissions and follow up with selected participants.
Beyond grant writing assistance, the NGA Foundation offers a broad range of technical assistance services to help bring grocery retail projects to life. NGAF staff are available to guide members through available resources and support options.
About the NGA Foundation
The National Grocers Association Foundation is committed to building a stronger independent grocery industry through education, leadership development, workforce initiatives, and scholarship programs.
About the National Grocers Association
NGA is the national trade association representing the retail and wholesale community grocers that comprise the independent sector of the food distribution industry. An independent retailer is a privately owned or controlled food retail company operating a variety of formats. The independent grocery sector is accountable for about 1.2 percent of the nation’s overall economy and is responsible for generating more than $250 billion in sales, 1.1 million jobs, $39 billion in wages and $36 billion in taxes. NGA members include retail and wholesale grocers located in every congressional district across the country, as well as state grocers’ associations, manufacturers and service suppliers. For more information about NGA, visit www.nationalgrocers.org.