Best Food Grants for Nonprofits in Utah

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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Utah that feed, educate, and empower youth near Jack in the Box locations can receive US $5,000 - US $10,000 for local programs. Jack in the Box Foundation supports youth-focused food access, education, and services within 50 miles of its restaurants; letters from franchisees or employees strengthen applications.

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 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.

About Lions Club International FoundationLions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) provides grants that empower the service of our members. Since its inception in 1968, LCIF has awarded more than US$1.3 billion in grant funding.  Mission :Our mission is to empower Lions clubs, volunteers and partners to improve health and wellbeing, strengthen communities, and support those in need through humanitarian service and grants that impact lives globally, and encourage peace and international understanding. And we fulfill it every day, everywhere we serve.Lions Club International Hunger Grant ProgramHunger Grants focus on strengthening infrastructure and providing essential equipment for Lions’ hunger-relief efforts. These grants empower Lions to support vital initiatives such as school feeding programs, food banks and feeding centers, ensuring that those in need receive the nourishment they require. These grants support infrastructure and equipment acquisition for Lions’ projects focused on alleviating hunger.Grant Examples: 

• Construction or expansion of food banks, feeding centers and food storage facilities.
• Purchase of refrigerators and freezers to store perishable food items.
• Vehicles to transport, collect and deliver food.

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.

The .ORG Impact Awards, organized by the Public Interest Registry, honor individuals and organizations connected to .ORG domains for their impactful contributions in areas such as health, education, diversity, and environmental stewardship. Participants can receive up to $50,000 for their chosen non-profit and gain visibility through various promotional platforms. This initiative not only recognizes excellence but also fosters community support and encourages innovative solutions to pressing societal issues.

The Oak Foundation Grant supports not-for-profit organizations worldwide aiming to create a safer, fairer, and sustainable future. With a commitment to social justice, the foundation encourages innovative approaches and long-term partnerships. Grants range from USD 25,000 to USD 10 million, focusing on projects that address root causes, ensure sustainability, and foster collaboration. The foundation emphasizes inclusivity and flexibility, aiming to build resilient organizations capable of making lasting impacts.

The Growing Justice Fund provides grants ranging from $25,000 to $250,000 to support community-led initiatives that enhance equitable food procurement. This initiative aims to empower Tribal, Indigenous, Black, Latinx, Asian, and immigrant communities by facilitating access to institutional contracts and promoting local economic viability. With a focus on health, environmental justice, and collective action, these grants are designed to foster sustainable food systems and build wealth in historically marginalized communities.

The FY 2026 SNAP Earnings Verification Support Grant by USDA's Food and Nutrition Administration aims to enhance food assistance programs by supporting State agencies in verifying earned income electronically. With a funding pool of up to $38 million, the grants will help states explore various income verification services. This initiative is vital for improving the efficiency of SNAP operations and ensuring that eligible applicants receive the assistance they need effectively over a 24-month period.

Ecolab Foundation

Ecolab Foundation is a philanthropic arm of Ecolab dedicated to advancing community well-being through programs that promote education, environmental stewardship, and public health. Its mission is to create positive social impact by supporting initiatives that strengthen communities and foster sustainable development.

The foundation’s primary areas of engagement include educational programs that enhance learning and workforce readiness, environmental projects that encourage conservation and sustainability, and health-related initiatives that improve hygiene and safety. It focuses on partnerships that deliver measurable benefits and long-term impact.

Ecolab Foundation operates primarily within the United States while also supporting global initiatives aligned with its corporate responsibility goals. Its geographic scope reflects a commitment to addressing local community needs and contributing to broader sustainability efforts.

The foundation collaborates with nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and community-based groups. It prioritizes partnerships that demonstrate strong governance, clear objectives, and alignment with its mission of education, health, and environmental responsibility.

Ecolab Match Program

Ecolab established the Volunteer and Community Relations programs to encourage and reward Ecolab employee and alumni involvement in the communities where people live and work. There are three programs including the Board Leadership Volunteer Grant.

Board Leadership Volunteer Grant

Ecolab will donate up to $500 USD annually to a qualifying 501(c)3 organization (some restrictions apply) for which an eligible person serves on the Board of Directors. 

Focus Areas of Giving

• Youth and Education: programs that promote youth development, particularly for programs that ensure all students are successful
• Civic & Community Development: affordable housing, work readiness, crisis assistance and hunger relief
• Environment & Conservation: hands-on environmental learning programs, environment and conservation organizations
• Arts & Culture: arts education for children and youth as well as support for museums and the performing arts