Without access to healthy foods, Virginia residents, especially in underserved areas, don’t get the nutrients they need to lead a quality life. Virginia Community Capital (VCC) views food retail businesses and other thoughtful food projects as critical components of vibrant communities because they increase healthy food access, especially in underserved areas. They are vital to the economic revitalization of these areas by creating easy-entry jobs and attracting additional development.
Launched in 2013, the Virginia Fresh Food Loan Fund (VFFLF) is a $10 million revolving loan fund to address food access issues in Virginia’s urban and rural communities. The VFFLF aims to increase access to healthy food by attracting food retail projects into underserved communities and supporting local agriculture and food enterprises.
During this session, you’ll hear more about VCC’s Virginia Fresh Food Loan Fund and other federal, state, and local funding resources for food-based businesses.
Speaker: Lauren DeSimone, Food System Financing Advisor.
