The James Beard Foundation Launches Investment Fund For Black And Indigenous-Owned Businesses

Food and drinks businesses have been suffering as a result of the massive closures due to COVID-19, or the novel coronavirus, pandemic restrictions on in-door dining. While the James Beard Foundation has chosen not to host its famous awards show for those in the food sector, they have announced that they will be unveiling a new investment fund for Black and Indigenous-owned businesses impacted by COVID-19.

The James Beard Foundation Investment Fund will distribute grants to businesses across the country in partnership with the organization’s Open For Good campaign that launched in April of this year. This initiative was made to help rebuild the independent restaurant industry that has suffered greatly as a result of the public health crisis.

“The new Fund is part of the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to continually lift up the Black and Indigenous business owners in its industry, not just in light of the pandemic, but for good,” said James Beard Foundation Vice President of Community Colleen Vincent, in a press statement.

“Financial resource is that much more impactful when coupled with support from organizations and experts who make themselves available to provide guidance on professional skills like marketing, structuring business plans, and negotiating contracts. The Foundation is creating new partnerships to deliver this value to its grant recipients in an effort to see these businesses thrive for the long term.”

Business owners can visit the website to learn more about how to apply.

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In acknowledgement of the immeasurable contributions the Black and Indigenous communities have made to the modern American foodscape, we’re announcing the James Beard Foundation Food and Beverage Investment Fund for Black and Indigenous Americans, a new grant initiative to provide financial resources for food or beverage businesses that are majority-owned by Black or Indigenous individuals. With this new Fund, we aim to support and encourage businesses of all forms—including food trucks, pop-up supper clubs, fast-casual restaurants, and more—that help to make American food delicious and diverse. The Fund aims to disburse $15,000 grants equally across Black and Indigenous populations throughout the United States. The application period will open later in the year—in the meantime, tap the link in our profile to learn more and donate now.

A post shared by James Beard Foundation (@beardfoundation) on Sep 14, 2020 at 8:07am PDT