Invest Atlanta has launched a $750,000 grant opportunity for grocery store owners looking to make internal and external improvements to their commercial properties. The grant opportunity provides up to $50,000 per project and is an expansion of the existing Commercial Property Improvement Grant (CPIG).
“The fresh food access grant program is a way for our Administration to develop community partnerships to ensure access to fresh, nutritious food to all of Atlanta,” says Mayor Andre Dickens. “In addition to closing the food access gap, these grants can help independent grocers expand and create jobs, become more energy efficient, enhance their property and a variety of added benefits for the surrounding neighborhoods.”
Qualified grocery businesses selling fresh food may use grant funds to maintain or expand properties with eligible expenses. These include façade enhancements, interior renovations, energy-efficient upgrades and other modifications that contribute to a more inviting and functional shopping environment. Grocery operators can also access technical assistance provided through the Independent Grocers Alliance (IGA) to help optimize supply chain processes and increase access to healthy, affordable food for the community.
According to Dr. Eloisa Klementich, president and CEO of Invest Atlanta, the opportunity grant goes beyond increasing access to fresh food, it also supports small businesses, creates jobs and improves retail infrastructure. “Access to fresh food is not just a privilege, but a fundamental right that impacts our health and well-being,” says Dr. Klementich. “Alongside the City of Atlanta and our partners, we are working to ensure that investments to increase food access make a long-term, holistic impact on our communities.”
The Commercial Property Improvement Grant (CPIG) was created within the Atlanta Open for Business Fund, in partnership with the United Way of Greater Atlanta. The fund was made possible by a $20 million donation from Wells Fargo to help small business owners in Atlanta own more of their businesses’ assets, including property and equipment.
For more information about the Commercial Property Improvement Grant and to apply, visit Invest Atlanta’s website, investatlanta.com/cpig. There is also a webinar recording that details the application process, eligibility requirements and program benefits. To learn more about Grocery Technical Assistance, watch Invest Atlanta’s informational session with IGA.