Best Food Grants for Nonprofits in Utah

About DHHS

Mission

The Utah Department of Health and Human Services will support and serve all individuals and communities throughout Utah. It will do so through effective policy and the operations of an effective and efficient seamless system of services and programs that is centered around the individuals and communities the department serves.

PATH 1.1 Rural Food Infrastructure

The Utah Food Security Grant Program strengthens Utah's food supply chain through strategic investments in agricultural production, processing, storage, distribution, market access, and local food promotion. By supporting grant projects across the food system, from farm to consumer, the program helps expand opportunities for Utah producers, strengthen rural communities, and increase the availability of Utah-grown and Utah-raised food. 

FY27 funding is provided through the Rural Health Transformation Program, opens in a new tab, opens in a new tab in partnership with the Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Eligible Projects and Expenses

This grant supports projects that increase the production, processing, storage, distribution, market access, or safe delivery of Utah-grown and Utah-raised food to Utah consumers, with an emphasis in rural Utah. Eligible projects may address needs across the food supply chain. All proposed expenses must directly support an immediate increase in the availability of minimally processed eligible Utah-grown or Utah-raised food in rural Utah. Honey and added-sugar products are not allowable. For detailed eligibility requirements and a full list of allowable and unallowable foods and expenses, please review the Request for Applications (RFA), opens in a new tab, opens in a new tab.

Below is a non-exhaustive list of eligible projects:

Production

Equipment and infrastructure that increase agricultural production or extend the growing season, including:

• tractors, harvesters, tillers, and other farm implements
• high tunnels, greenhouses, and indoor growing systems
• irrigation improvements
• frost protection equipment and supplies

Processing

Equipment that adds value to agricultural products or increases processing capacity, including:

• washing, peeling, slicing, chopping, shucking, pasteurizing, or other processing equipment
• bottling, bagging, labeling, packaging, and packing equipment
• slaughter and meat processing equipment

Distribution

Equipment and technology that improve the movement of food from producers to markets, including:

• refrigerated trucks, vans, or trailers or renovating existing distribution equipment for cold storage
• cold-storage upgrades for existing delivery vehicles
• inventory management and logistics software
• dock levelers and weather seals
• forklifts, pallet jacks, and other material handling equipment
• logistics software to map the most efficient distribution routes, minimizing fuel costs and reducing the time highly perishable food spends in transit
• inventory tracking systems to track the location and distribution status of pallets or bins as they move from storage to the wholesale or retail destination. If you don’t have this system, you are encouraged to apply for it to report on your outcomes. 

Dry and cold storage

Equipment and non-construction facility improvements that preserve product quality and extend shelf life, including:

• Walk-in coolers, freezers, CoolBots, and cold storage systems
• Humidity, ventilation, and HVAC improvements
• Backup generators for cold storage
• Insulated storage bins and containers

Market access

Equipment, technology, and other investments that help producers reach new customers, access new markets, or expand sales capacity, including:

• e-commerce and online sales platforms
• point-of-sale systems
• inventory management, customer ordering, and sales software
• equipment or technology required to meet buyer requirements or enter new markets
• other equipment or technology that increases market access or sales capacity
• certification and Training - Certifications and training that help businesses meet industry standards, comply with buyer or regulatory requirements, or access new markets, including:
• good Agricultural Practices (GAP)
• hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP)
• safe Quality Food (SQF)
• other certifications or training that support food safety, regulatory compliance, market access, or business growth
• cooperative marketing initiatives that promote Utah-grown or Utah-raised products and benefit multiple producers or food businesses 

Food Safety

• Equipment and systems that improve food safety and regulatory compliance, including:
• commercial washing and sanitation equipment
• steam-cleaning and sanitation systems
• temperature and humidity monitoring equipment
• other food safety improvements that support safe handling and storage

Minor construction, defined as building modifications or retrofitting that does not expand the existing building footprint, and upgrades to existing equipment may be funded but are subject to additional restrictions and limited available funding. Applicants should only include these costs when they are necessary to support an eligible equipment purchase or project. New and used equipment purchases are not subject to these restrictions.

Focused on food access and hunger, Sundt Foundation invites Utah 501(c)(3) nonprofits to request US $2,500 - US $25,000 for specific programs. Eligible organizations address hunger, nutrition, or basic needs, have operated at least one year, meet budget and admin cost thresholds, and maintain a physical presence in Sundt’s local giving area.

Utah 501(c)(3) nonprofits supporting food access, families, or youth development can access funding through Franz Bakery Foundation to strengthen community wellbeing and reduce hunger. Eligible organizations must be located in Franz’s service area states, and typical awards are approximately US $3,000, with the option to reapply each year.

Utah food access and hunger nonprofits and local government programs can access funding for emergency food services and infrastructure in Utah. Utah Department of Workforce Services supports emergency food pantries, food banks, and prepared meal sites with US $150,000 for operations, transportation, supplies (excluding food), equipment capacity building, technical assistance, staffing, and warehousing and distributing food to low-income residents.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Utah addressing homelessness, food access, and poverty can seek one-year humanitarian project support to serve Utah residents and promote self-reliance. Focused on vulnerable populations and service gaps, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints prioritizes catalytic projects, wraparound services, and outcome tracking, which may benefit food pantries expanding case management and support services.

Utah 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government units can apply for Eccles Foundation grants up to Up to US $2,000,000 to support arts, community services, education, health, and preservation projects. Organizations addressing food access and hunger within broader community or humanitarian programs in Utah may be eligible if they meet the foundation’s focus areas and capacity expectations.

The Hunger to Health Collaboratory (H2HC) 2025 Prizes for Innovation aim to enhance health equity for youth through innovative funding in three categories: Food and Nutrition Policy, Nutrition Education & School Food, and Indigenous Food Justice. Supported by Newman’s Own Foundation, these prizes include $100K grants for policy work and $25K grants for education and justice initiatives. Winners will participate in the H2HC Fall Summit in Boston, fostering collaborative solutions to food challenges.

The Big Bets Fellowship: Economic Opportunity in the United States is a transformative 4-month program designed to empower emerging leaders to tackle economic challenges head-on. With a focus on innovative solutions for job creation, affordable housing, and equitable access to resources, the fellowship equips participants with essential skills and a supportive network. The initiative aims to drive systemic change and promote sustainable economic prosperity, addressing inequalities while fostering resilient communities across the nation.

The UCCU Donation & Sponsorship Program supports local causes that enhance the quality of life for residents in various Utah counties. Charitable organizations must be registered and preferably 501(c)(3) or nonprofit. UCCU prioritizes requests related to hunger, health, and homelessness while generally excluding sponsorships for political, private, or international entities. This commitment reflects their mission of fostering community well-being and financial stability.

Utah food access and hunger nonprofits can access funding through Albertsons Companies Foundation’s Nourishing Neighbors Innovation Incubation Fund for new, scalable ideas that permanently break the cycle of hunger. U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations serving communities with Albertsons stores may receive up to US $300,000 for innovative, collaborative, and sustainable hunger relief projects, including multi-year efforts.

Nonprofit and for-profit organizations addressing food access, healthcare access, or economic vitality in the U.S., including Utah, can seek up to US $500,000 to scale evidence-based, community-rooted solutions. American Heart Association’s Social Impact Fund supports efforts that improve nutrition, reduce health disparities, and strengthen economic well-being in under-resourced communities.

Utah school districts and community-based organizations running federal child nutrition programs can access funding for equipment and other needs that help feed kids. Utah food access and hunger nonprofits can apply through Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry Grant, which prioritizes expanding School Breakfast Program participation and non-congregate summer meals, with limited support for other federal nutrition programs.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) and other charitable organizations running food access and nutrition programs in Utah may be eligible for this Journey for Good Foundation funding, which serves North America. The grant supports initiatives that combat hunger, promote nutritional wellness, and can also back related education, workforce development, and veteran-focused services.

Utah 501(c)(3) nonprofits focused on food access, hunger, or environmental stewardship can access funding through Whole Foods Market’s Store Giving Program. Grants provide biannual financial support for community-based programs near Whole Foods stores, with priority for organizations that have not already received a sponsorship or donation that calendar year.

Reinvestment Fund provides Utah food access and hunger organizations with funding to expand healthy food retail and strengthen food delivery and distribution services. Eligible applicants include for-profit, nonprofit, and cooperatively owned businesses, higher education institutions, and state, local, and tribal governments. Awards range from US $20,000 - US $250,000 for planning, implementation, and technical assistance projects.

Food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters in California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, or Wisconsin can apply for UNICO Foundation’s Ralph J. Torraco Food Bank/Shelter Fund to purchase food or provide shelter. Utah nonprofits working on food access may look to similar programs for direct-service funding models.

Grants from Newmans Own Foundation help Utah food access and hunger organizations advance food justice for children through Indigenous food justice or nutrition education and school food programs. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) public charities, tribes, public schools, and certain government entities across the U.S. and territories, with awards up to US $100,000 over two years.

Nonprofit organizations working on food access, hunger relief, and health equity initiatives in Utah and across North America can apply for McKesson Foundation grants up to US $25,000. McKesson Foundation provides support for programs addressing medicine and food access, disaster response, cancer prevention, and preparing a diverse healthcare workforce, with funding decisions based on alignment and impact.

U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofits with audited expenses over $2 million working on food access, hunger, and related social services can apply for the Hearst Foundation’s Social Service Grant; awards More than US $100,000 for program, capital, or general support. Utah organizations focused on food banks, food delivery, and poverty alleviation may be especially competitive.

Nonprofit organizations providing food access, hunger relief, or nutrition education in Utah may be eligible for Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation’s Fighting Hunger Grants, offering up to US $10,000 per program. U.S. and Canadian food pantries, food banks, meal assistance programs, and food rescue initiatives can apply for support within the foundation’s three strategic areas.

Utah 501(c)(3) nonprofits and similar charities working on food access, health, education, or community programs can seek support for services like food pantries, meal programs, and healthcare for underserved populations. Utah food access and hunger organizations can access funding through Labcorp Charitable Foundation, which also backs STEM education and healthy lifestyle initiatives.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on food access and hunger, education, or animal welfare in Utah counties where Seaboard operates can apply for Seaboard Foundation’s funding; awards support community-focused programs. Eligible U.S.-registered charities in Salt Lake County and other listed areas may benefit if their work aligns with the foundation’s mission to improve food security.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) charities, certain public institutions, and exempt operating foundations, including those in Utah within the AEP service territory, can seek funding for food access, hunger relief, and basic human needs programs. Grants from American Electric Power Foundation also support STEM education, equitable housing, and social justice initiatives benefiting AEP communities.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

The purpose of America’s Healthy Food Financing Initiative (HFFI) is to improve access to healthy food in underserved areas, to support food supply chain resiliency, to create and preserve quality jobs, and torevitalize low-income communities by providing financial and technical assistance, either directly orthrough other partners and intermediaries, to eligible fresh, healthy food retailers and enterprises toovercome the higher costs and initial barriers to entry in underserved areas. HFFI offers fundingopportunities and technical assistance to eligible applicants.

Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation

The Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation goes beyond food aid to create lasting change. Through innovative programs, strategic partnerships and volunteer action, Stop Hunger tackles the root causes of food insecurity.

In 2025, Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation and the Hunger Center awarded grants to 131 programs representing 118 communities in 37 states plus the District of Columbia. Collectively, these programs provided an estimated 22,000 backpacks full of shelf-stable food items for students to take home for the weekend or holidays when school meals are not served.

Since 2006, the Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation has been a driving force behind weekend and holiday hunger relief for students across the U.S. Through support of food backpack programs, the Foundation partners with local food banks and schools to discreetly provide K-12 students with backpacks filled with nutritious, shelf-stable meals. These backpacks are distributed in safe, familiar settings – typically on the last school day before a weekend or school break – ensuring that all children who rely on free or reduced-price school meals don’t go hungry when school is out.

K-12 Backpack Grant

The K-12 Backpack Grant is an initiative launched by the Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation and administered in partnership with the Congressional Hunger Center to support community backpack programs. Grants of $1,000 will be issued to community organizations with established backpack feeding programs that provide students with shelf-stable, nutritious meals when school is out of session.

Request for Proposals: Launchpad Funds

Background

Coefficient Giving is increasing its giving, primarily to prepare for the billions of dollars in new philanthropic capital that may become available in the coming years. Our increased giving in global health and wellbeing is a temporary surge, with two objectives: to smooth funding and pull forward initiatives we expect to be cost-effective, and to help create an ecosystem of regrantors and implementers with the capacity to allocate this new money as cost-effectively as possible. Additional context on our scaling is provided in this blog post. 

With new potential capital on the way, we want to increase the supply of actionable and fundable plans to address some of the world’s hardest problems. We’re looking for specific, credible strategies to convert funding into measurable progress. Our ideal funds are:

However, we are also open to funds that are thematic and don’t have a quantified goal — for example, a fund organized around a promising type of intervention. Such funds still need to be led by a single, identifiable person who is accountable for the fund’s direction.

Through this request for EOIs, we aim to seed or scale Launchpad Funds that can grow to $100m+ over the next few years. We don’t seek scale for its own sake; it is a proxy for the ambition of the fund, and a signal that the problem is large and tractable enough to justify deploying significantly more capital over time.

What we will fund

• We expect to support established ideas that have either not yet secured anchor support or could significantly scale beyond their existing level of funding.
• This funding can cover operating expenses, but we expect most of it to be used for activities that make progress on the fund’s goals — whether through regranting or direct implementation.
• For exceptional proposals, we may consider funding levels beyond $50m. We anticipate higher funding levels will involve more thought partnership from our team.
• While we don’t expect to make grants longer than 36 months, funded proposals may later be considered for additional funding beyond the initial period.