By Jamie Martin
The California Department of Food and Agriculture Office of Farm to Fork (CDFA-F2F) is now accepting applications for the Farm to Community Food Hubs Program.
With a total of $13.75 million in funding, this initiative will support new and existing food hubs that help schools and institutions purchase local, climate-smart, and nutritious foods.
Organizations interested in applying must submit their applications by 5 p.m. PDT on April 14, 2025, via cafoodhubs@cdfa.ca.gov.Application materials and program details can be accessed at CDFA Farm to Fork.
Funding Tracks
Track 1 – Planning Grants - Funds activities related to food hub planning.
Track 2 – Infrastructure and Operations Grants - Supports infrastructure and distribution expenses.
Additionally, 10% of the funding is designated for California Native American Tribes and Tribal-led nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on strengthening local farming economies, improving climate adaptation, and ensuring fair employment in food systems.
Application Support and Public Sessions
CDFA-F2F will offer draft application feedback for up to 20 eligible applicants from February 20 to April 11, 2025. More details are available at CDFA Farm to Fork.
Public virtual Application Information Session -
Public virtual application office hours -
- February 25, 2025, at 4 p.m. PST | Register here
- March 11, 2025, at 12 p.m. PDT | Register here
- March 26, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. PDT | Register here
- April 1, 2025, at 11 a.m. PDT | Register here
- April 10, 2025, at 12 p.m. PDT | Register here
For further inquiries, applicants can contact cafoodhubs@cdfa.ca.gov
The Farm to Community Food Hubs Program was developed based on feedback from public consultations, surveys, and working groups.
It builds on CDFA’s previous efforts, including the Farm to School Incubator Grant Program, the Healthy Refrigeration Grant Program, and the California Resilient Food Systems Initiative Program, all aimed at enhancing sustainable food access in California.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-valentinrussanov
Categories: National