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Apply for Cohort

Receive the assistance your business needs. Read more to see how you may qualify.

important!

Cohort applications open January 15 through April 15.

Funding for the Restaurant Business Development Program (RBDP) provided by external corporations with vested interest in the creation and sustainability of businesses owned and operated by marginalized individuals including, but not limited to, people who identify as Black, Indigenous, Latinx, formerly incarcerated, LGBTQIA+ and senior citizens.

A comprehensive review process determines the awarded amount for the Restaurant Business Development Program (RBDP) recipients. It is not a guarantee that grant recipients will receive the total requested amount. Subscribe to our newsletter to be alerted when the application for the next cohort opens up.

Please note: Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

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How to Apply

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify and apply for Cohort:

  • Businesses must be 51% owned by a person (or persons) who are marginalized or business owners who identify as Black, Indigenous, and Latinx. They may also identify as LGBTQIA+, senior citizens, military combat veterans, persons with learning or physical disabilities, and formerly incarcerated individuals.
  • Businesses must be located in the United States, including Puerto Rico.
  • Must be in business 2 years prior to the opening of the Restaurant Business Development Program (RBDP) application.
  • Applications must be submitted using the electronic application. Paper applications submitted via email, fax, or mail will not be accepted.
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Need to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I need to operate a culinary business to apply?
    Yes. Culinary businesses include restaurants, food trucks, bars, lounges, mobile bartenders, catering companies, meal preparation companies, café or beverage companies (e.g., coffee, smoothie, tea).
  • Do I need to be marginalized to apply?
    Yes, 51% of the company must be owned by a person or persons who are marginalized.
  • I do not belong to a marginalized group. Can I still apply?
    No.
  • Are there any age requirements?
    Yes. All applicants must be 18 years and older to apply.
  • I have not created my business, can I apply?
    No. All applicants must be in business for a minimum of 2 years (24 months) before applying.
  • How does Feed the Soul Foundation define marginalized?

    Feed the Soul Foundation, defines marginalized as a socially disadvantaged person belonging to one or more of the following groups with specific attention on racially marginalized individuals: We represent all intersections of the culinary community that identifies as Black, Indigenous, Latinx, people of color. Inducing senior citizens, formerly incarcerated, undocumented, disabled (physical or mentally disabled), and those belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community.

  • Do I need to live and do business in the United States?
    Yes. Currently, we are accepting applicants who live and do business in the United States (including Puerto Rico).
  • When do applications open?
    October 5
  • When do applications close?
    January 31
  • Applications are currently closed. Can I be notified before the next round opens?
    Yes. Would you mind clicking here to subscribe to our newsletter to hear the latest Feed the Soul news, including when our next round of applications opens up.
  • Where can I find the application?
    Complete the application here.
  • How do I submit my application?
    The application is electronic. You must complete the application and attach all required documents to apply.
  • Can I mail, email, or fax my completed application?
    No.
  • Will incomplete applications be reviewed?
    No. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed or selected.
  • Can I submit my application after the deadline?
    No.
  • Can I submit more than one application?
    No.
  • When will Feed the Soul announce the cohort?
    March 15th via email.
  • Can I reapply if my application is denied?
    Yes. All denied applicants can reapply the following year.
  • Can I reapply if my application is accepted?
    No. All accepted applicants can only participate in one (1) cohort.
  • If my application is denied, can I request feedback?
    Yes. Send a request to [email protected]
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