ESD launches $4 million Business Food Waste Mitigation Grant program

Grants available to support food waste recycling infrastructure, reduce greenhouse gas emissions

√ Program guidelines and eligibility requirements can be found here

Submitted by Empire State Development

Empire State Development has announced the launch of the Business Food Waste Mitigation Grant program, a $4 million initiative aimed at reducing food waste from large-scale businesses across New York. This competitive capital equipment grant program will provide funding for municipalities and nonprofit organizations to create or expand food waste recycling infrastructure to accept food waste from businesses. Diverting food waste from landfills mitigates greenhouse gas emissions, a key priority of the state’s Climate Action Council scoping plan.

ESD President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “This grant program is a game-changer for reducing commercial food waste and improving organics recycling infrastructure across New York. By funding essential equipment, we’re enabling businesses, municipalities and nonprofits to take meaningful action against food waste and its environmental impact.”

The program provides grants in the range of $100,000 to $750,000 to eligible municipalities and nonprofit organizations operating their own food waste mitigation projects or undertaking projects on a business’s behalf. Eligible projects include the purchase of food processing, management, and transportation equipment that collect and recycle food waste from businesses. Examples of eligible equipment include compactors, dehydrators, depackagers, windrow turners, forklifts, and food waste collection trucks.

This initiative marks a significant step in New York’s commitment to waste reduction, climate action, and sustainable business practices. By investing in food waste mitigation, the state is helping businesses and communities reduce their environmental footprint while creating a cleaner, greener future.

Interested applicants can find more details in the program guidelines and submit their applications through the consolidated funding application (CFA) portal. For inquiries, contact [email protected].

Empire State Development is New York's chief economic development agency, and promotes business growth, job creation and greater economic opportunity throughout the state. For more information, visit esd.ny.gov, and connect with ESD on LinkedIn, Facebook and X.