Funder: Food and Nutrition Service
Due Dates: July 31, 2026: Full application submission deadline via Grants.gov (applications must be uploaded by 11:59 PM EST on this date)
Funding Amounts: Up to $4,000,000 total over three years; up to 3 awards; minimum award $1, maximum $4,000,000.
Summary: Supports the development and implementation of mobile payment solutions to enable SNAP-authorized farmers and farmers markets to accept SNAP benefits, increasing access for SNAP recipients to local agriculture.
Key Information: Only nonprofit organizations and institutes of higher education are eligible; no cost sharing required.
Description
This opportunity from the USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) funds cooperative agreements to develop and implement secure mobile payment solutions for SNAP-authorized direct marketing farmers (DMFs) and farmers markets (FMs). The goal is to enable these entities to accept SNAP benefits at little or no cost, expanding access for SNAP recipients to fresh, local foods through various direct marketing channels, including in-person markets, roadside stands, pick-your-own operations, and eCommerce platforms.
The cooperator will:
- Facilitate a shared vision and approaches among stakeholders to support SNAP participation by DMFs and FMs.
- Assist DMFs and FMs in becoming SNAP-authorized and provide outreach and training.
- Provide or coordinate access to a secure SNAP Mobile Transaction Processing Application (or similar technology) for EBT transactions.
- Train and support participating DMFs and FMs in using the technology.
- Monitor and report on the effectiveness and reach of the solution, including metrics on participation, transaction volume, and outreach.
The project is not intended to fund the development of untested applications but may enhance existing platforms to support additional federal nutrition programs.
