Seed Awards
2026 Seed Awards Applications Open Now!
Growing a Stronger Food System for All
Through the Seed Awards, Michigan Good Food Fund’s Stakeholder Board awards seed grants ranging from $5,000-$20,000 to eligible businesses. Applications for the next round of funding open on September 7, 2026, and close on September 28, 2026, at 5:00 PM EDT.
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This round of grants helps ALL businesses across the food and farm sector whose success will grow economic development and healthy food access throughout Michigan. BIPOC and women-owned businesses are highly encouraged to apply.
See the full details here.
building Your Seed Awards Applications
Watch this short webinar that covers valuable feedback on what makes a successful Seed Awards application. Click here to view a sample application.
Application Process
Applications for the next round of seed funding open on September 7, 2026, and close on September 28, 2026, at 5:00 pm EDT.
Businesses will be asked to describe the following in the application process:
- A brief description of your business: name and location, community(ies) served, and product(s) and/or service(s) provided.
- The current status of your business, for example, customer base, revenue, start-up or established operations, etc.
- Business owner's name(s) and demographic information.
- The specific amount you are seeking, up to a maximum of $20,000. This will help us understand your financial needs and how we can best support your business.
- Intended use of the requested funds. Be as specific as possible regarding how these funds will help you grow your business, prepare for additional financing, and/or meet your business goals, and positively impact the Michigan food system and your community.
Questions? Reach out to info@migoodfoodfund.org.
Proposal Review
A committee of Michigan Good Food Fund Stakeholder Board members will review the proposals and decide which will receive funding based on the proposed use of funds and mission alignment.
Applicants can expect to hear whether their proposal has been selected for funding by November 2026. Please direct any questions or requests for information about the 2026 Seed Awards to info@migoodfoodfund.org.
Investing in food and farm entrepreneurs across Michigan
With a focus on promoting racial equity, enhancing healthy food access, fostering job creation, and embracing resilient climate practices, the Seed Awards are a cornerstone of the Michigan Good Food Fund’s commitment to supporting local food and farm entrepreneurs.
Our inaugural awards were launched in 2023. These grants represent not just financial investment but a recognition of these businesses’ vital role in advancing Michigan’s food value chain.
Learn more about our latest round of Seed Award winners.
“This award is helping us grow that side of the business and share more of our food with people in Michigan while doing more business in the state.”
—Hamissi Mamba, CEO & Co-Founder of Baobab in Detroit
“By maintaining our business, we are able to serve our family, our communities and the region with food that sustains our health, and the health of the surrounding ecosystem.”
—Jerry Jondreau, Co-owner of Dynamite Hill Farms in L’Anse
Explore Other Services from Michigan Good Food Fund
Flexible Financing
Gain access to flexible, patient loans customized for food and farm businesses of any scale.
Business Resources
Access on-demand resources designed to help you succeed at every stage.
Trainings and Workshops
Expand your expertise with trainings designed specifically for food and farm businesses.
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