2025 CNIP Expansion – WIC, WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program and Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program
Highlights
This program is a fantastic opportunity for your business to play a meaningful role in your community. By participating, you can offer nutrition incentives to shoppers using WIC benefits, which encourages them to buy fresh, locally grown produce at farmers’ markets. Not only does this help improve the health of your community, but it also brings more foot traffic to your business, leading to potential increases in sales.
You will also find that there are no set limits on funding or revenue qualifications, allowing flexibility that suits businesses of any size. Being part of this initiative means you can adapt your offerings to better serve your community while contributing to its well-being. Qualified shoppers will benefit at the point of purchase, making it easy for them to access fresh food, which can lead to regular shoppers for your business as the community grows healthier.
Joining this program isn't just about giving back—it's about growing your bottom line while you make a positive impact. This is a simple way to engage with your customers and enhance your reputation in the community.
Financing Details
Type of Financing
This program offers grants to support your projects. Unlike a loan, you won't have to pay this money back. It’s designed to help you reach low-access and low-income areas, focusing on improving nutrition through fresh fruits and vegetables.
Repayment Terms and Interest Rates
Since these are grants, there are no repayment terms or interest rates attached. You can use the funding to implement your project without the worry of future payments.
Eligible Expenses
Eligible expenses include:
- Costs associated with distributing nutrition incentives.
- Materials for promoting the use of WIC and other benefits.
- Expenses related to implementing your project in certified farmers' markets.
Restrictions on Funds
Keep in mind that funds cannot be used for unrelated business expenses or expenses that do not directly contribute to the goal of enhancing nutrition incentives.
Fees Associated with the Program
Generally, there are no fees associated with these grants. However, it’s always best to double-check any specific agreements or requirements when you apply.
Qualifications
- Location: Must be based in California.
- Sectors: Open to all sectors.
- Employee Count: No minimum or maximum number of employees required.
- Company Revenue: No minimum or maximum revenue qualifications.
- Legal Structure: All legal structures are applicable.
- Profit Structure: All profit structures are applicable.
Disqualifications:
- None specified in the provided context.
Description
This program is designed to support you in providing access to fresh produce for local shoppers using WIC and other nutrition benefits. By participating, your business can offer incentives that will encourage low-income communities to buy California-grown fruits and vegetables at farmers' markets. This not only helps improve the health of your community but also increases foot traffic and potential sales for your business.
Qualified shoppers will receive these incentives at the point of purchase, making it simple for them to access fresh food while benefiting your bottom line. The focus is on reaching low-access areas and those struggling with diet-related health issues. With a broad outreach, your business can play an important role in promoting healthy eating habits and contributing to community well-being.
There is no set limit on funding or revenue qualifications, allowing flexibility for various business sizes. The ongoing nature of this initiative means your business has the chance to adapt and grow as you engage with the community.
Program Steps
Visit the Program Website: Go to the program's website to gather essential information about the application process and specific requirements.
Prepare Required Documentation: Assemble the following documents needed for your application:
- Business tax identification number (EIN)
- A brief description of your business and its offerings
- Clear plan on how you will provide access to fresh produce for low-income shoppers
- Financial statements (if applicable)
- Proof of participation in WIC and other nutrition benefit programs
- Any relevant permits and licenses for operating a farmers' market
Complete the Application Form: Fill out the application form provided on the program's website. Ensure all sections are accurately completed.
Submit the Application: Send your completed application and all required documentation through the designated submission portal or address provided on the website.
Follow Up: Check in with the program's contact person to confirm receipt of your application and clarify any questions you may have.
Await Approval: Be patient as your application is reviewed. This may take some time, so ensure you’re available for any follow-up inquiries from the program team.
Implement Program if Approved: Once notified of your acceptance, begin implementing the program according to the guidelines provided, promoting fresh produce access in your community.