The Food Policy Catalyst
The Food Policy Catalyst by CSPI funds science-based advocacy to advance equitable food systems, policy change, and corporate accountability, with a focus on health equity and community empowerment.
Funder: Center for Science in the Public Interest
Due Dates (Anticipated): June 2026 (Full application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Total pool in prior cycles was $8.26 million; individual subgrant sizes not specified; 8-month cohort for Powerbuilding track.
Summary: Supports organizations advocating for equitable food systems, policy change, and corporate accountability in public health.
Key Information: Currently not accepting proposals; next cycle anticipated for June 2026.
Description
The Food Policy Catalyst, an initiative of the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), provides subgrants to organizations engaged in food system advocacy. The program targets three main areas:
- Powerbuilding: Funding for participation in an 8-month cohort designed to strengthen organizational capacity and empower communities facing significant inequities.
- State & Local Policy: Support for campaigns addressing SNAP, child nutrition programs, state-level beverage taxes, values-driven food procurement, and food labeling/marketing.
- Industry Accountability: Grants for initiatives holding corporations responsible for the health impacts of their products and marketing.
The program emphasizes evidence-based, community-informed strategies, health equity, and partnership with organizations led by and serving racialized and/or minoritized communities. Subgrantees benefit from technical assistance, capacity-building opportunities, and participation in a broader network of advocates and coalitions.
