Where the funding went
1Review noteOnly two awards are recorded for this RFP so far, so the map looks sparse. Could the export include the amount and location (state and ZIP) for every approved award, including organizations that didn’t want to be listed? We’d use those only for these totals and the map, and never show their names.
Funded proposals
- Empower Futurewave FoundationNaperville, IL$1,000
- RESTORATION & REENTRY INITIATIVEFairmount Heights, MD$10,000
No listed proposals match.
Overview
Background
Nourishing Neighbors, a program of Albertsons Companies Foundation, is committed to ensuring that everyone including children, seniors, and families- have access to nourishing food.
We acknowledge that fighting hunger isn’t just about providing food- it’s about creating lasting solutions that break the cycle of hunger. That’s why we are increasing our focus on collaboration, capacity building, and long-term strategies to drive sustainable solutions.
Innovation Spark Incubation Fund
Great ideas can come from anywhere—and they can be big or small. Through the Innovation Spark Incubation Fund, we are looking for fresh, creative approaches that can help break the cycle of hunger and create lasting change in our communities.
We welcome ideas at different stages and scales, from grassroots concepts to ambitious programs with the potential for broad impact. What matters most is the strength of the idea: Is it innovative? Does it address an unmet need or rethink an existing approach? Could it lead to a more sustainable solution to hunger?
Think of the Innovation Spark Incubation Fund as a place to bring forward promising ideas, explore what is possible, and help turn bold thinking into meaningful action. If you have a vision for changing the way we address hunger, we want to hear it.
Program Focus
This grant is for new and innovative ideas or concepts that help end hunger forever.
Ask yourself:
- Is your idea new- something that has never been tried before in the U.S.?
- By the end of your program, will the people you are helping be equipped with the resources and tools to feed themselves, be self-sufficient, and no longer rely on your programs for food assistance?
- Does your program create lasting independence from food assistance?
- Will your idea break the cycle of hunger permanently?
If you answered yes to these questions, you are most welcome to apply. If not, we are sorry- this particular fund isn’t the right fit. However, we do offer other opportunities focused on providing food access to people in need.
Funding Details
- Funding Cycle: Single year or multi-year grant (up to 4 years)
- Funding Amount: Flexible, based on project needs
- Grant Period: Rolling and based on project needs
Eligibility
- Organizations may either have or be willing to form a panel of advisors of people with lived experience with hunger (minimum 3 advisors)
- Organizations must be registered as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit or have a fiscal sponsor that meets this requirement.
- Organizations must operate in the United States and serve communities where Albertsons Companies stores are located (see here for a map)
Selection criteria
- Innovation– This project is centered around groundbreaking ideas that address critical needs and create significant value. It is designed to introduce something entirely new and transformative, with the ultimate goal of ending the cycle of hunger for the participants.
- Impact– The project will have clear, measurable indicators and outcomes that demonstrate its effectiveness in ending hunger in a specific geographic area.
- Feasibility– The project is attainable, realistic, and sustainable with the available resources and timeline.
- Relevance– The project supports evident needs and aligns with the mission and vision of Albertsons Companies Foundation.
- Collaboration– The project involves partnership or coordination with other organizations, stakeholders, or community members.
Application process
Submit the application online using this link: https://albertsonscompaniesfoundation.versaic.com/login
Invitation Code: InnovationSpark
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis with no set deadline for submission. Reviews take place in phases, and applicants will receive feedback within 8 weeks of submission.
Frequently asked questions
Can this be an idea based on HOW we do our work? Or WHAT are we doing for our work
We are looking for both- an idea that contributes to ending hunger and the approach your organization takes to implement it. How you structure and execute the idea is entirely up to you.
How would you want us to present the scale of impact?
We leave that up to your organization to determine. You can present the scale of impact in a way that best reflects your project’s goals and approach. We are flexible and encourage you to use the metrics or format that make the most sense for your work.
Can our ideas be nascent? Just beginning? Not fully fledged out. If so, what metrics or evidence would you want us to provide for these projects since we wouldn't have much evidence?
Yes, ideas can be in the early stages. We are looking for a clear vision of how your idea will help people achieve self-sufficiency or break the cycle of hunger. While we understand that evidence may be limited, but you could outline the potential impact including the estimated number of individuals your project could reach or any other indicators of success you plan to track.
When you ask for new ideas that have never been done before, does this mean new ideas to the organization? New that you've never funded before? New-- that's never been created by any organization ever before?
New concepts that no organization has developed before.
How many fund recipients will there be?
There is no set limit on the number of organizations we may fund.
Can my organization apply for multiple ideas or projects?
Yes, organizations can submit multiple applications if they have different ideas or projects that align with the goal of self-sufficiency in hunger relief.
How much should we ask for?
The total annual funding is $10 million. There is no set limit on the number of organiztions we may fund. As this is an "incubation fund", we invite organiztions to share their plans, vision,and funding needs, and we will determine funding decisions accordingly. Each application will be reviewed on its own merit and the budget outlined in the proposal. The maximum amount is $3 million.
Our organization doesn’t currently have a panel of people with lived experience. Can some of the grant funds help pay for us to form one?
Yes, we are happy to help support a panel.
In the application you ask me to “Please select all stores in the area in which this project will impact”. How do I know what stores to select?
Please select stores in the area where you will be working. The best way to think about this is: does the population I’m working with have an option to shop at this store? If so, please select that store.
What is the purpose of the Innovation Incubation Fund?
The Innovation Incubation Fund supports organizations with innovative ideas that aim to promote self sufficiency in the hunger space and work toward ending hunger for good. We are looking to fund new-never tried before solutions that create lasting impact in communities.
When is it due?
There is no deadline for submission. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and reviewed until all available funds have been allocated.
Is there an invitation code?
Yes, please use InnovationSpark (it’s the same for everyone)
How do I apply?
Please use this link: https://albertsonscompaniesfoundation.versaic.com/login and Invitation Code – Innovation2025
I have questions, who do I contact?
Unfortunately, there are many, many of you and only two of us. The best way is to fill out the application and we will contact you with questions. Thank you very much for understanding.