Equity Foods Foundation

Equity Foods FoundationEquity Foods FoundationEquity Foods Foundation

Equity Foods Foundation

Equity Foods FoundationEquity Foods FoundationEquity Foods Foundation
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Good Food Good Health Good Business

Good Food Good Health Good BusinessGood Food Good Health Good BusinessGood Food Good Health Good Business

Good Food Good Health Good Business

Good Food Good Health Good BusinessGood Food Good Health Good BusinessGood Food Good Health Good Business

About Equity Foods Foundation

Mission Statement

 Equity Food Foundation is dedicated to strengthening local food systems by supporting fair, accessible, and sustainable food practices that promote good health and foster economic growth. Through partnerships and community-driven initiatives, we are committed to enhancing the local food supply chain, ensuring that good food, good health, and good business practices go hand in hand. 

Vision Statement

 We envision a future where local communities are empowered with resilient food systems that prioritize nutritious, locally-sourced food, equitable economic opportunities, and the well-being of all. By championing local producers, we aim to create a thriving network that supports community health, sustains local economies, and promotes ethical food production from farm to table. 

Statement of Services

 In partnership with Food Hero, Equity Food Foundation is committed to nurturing a vibrant, inclusive food ecosystem that empowers local talent and strengthens community food resilience. Our services are tailored to uplift marginalized food system participants—including small-batch food manufacturers, street vendors, home cooks, urban growers, local farmers, restaurants, and culinary professionals—by providing access to resources, mentorship, and market opportunities. 


 

Together, we:

· Empower marginalized participants with the tools and support needed to thrive, helping them navigate barriers to entry and sustain successful food-based enterprises.

· Support small-batch producers by offering kitchen spaces, training, and guidance on food safety, branding, and distribution.

· Strengthen local agriculture by connecting urban growers and farmers with consumers and food-based businesses, ensuring fresh, local produce reaches diverse markets.

· Boost economic opportunity for street vendors, home cooks, and emerging culinary entrepreneurs by providing incubator services, legal guidance, and connections to viable sales channels.

· Promote collaboration and education within the culinary community, offering skill-building workshops, networking events, and partnership opportunities.

Our vision is to cultivate a robust local food system where diversity, equity, and sustainability flourish, enriching our communities and enhancing food access for all.

Equity Food Foundation Partnerships

Food Hero

University of Chicago

Food Hero

 A bilingual culinary school and food incubator providing workforce training, business support, and shared kitchen access for emerging food entrepreneurs. 

Cocina Rx

University of Chicago

Food Hero

 A medically tailored meal provider offering nutrition coaching, healthy cooking classes, and culturally relevant, personalized meals using local ingredients. 

University of Chicago

University of Chicago

University of Chicago

 Academic partner supporting program evaluation, research, and pilot studies to assess impact on health and economic outcomes. 

Builders Vision

USDA (United States Department of Agriculture)

University of Chicago

 A philanthropic organization focused on regenerative food systems and social enterprise development to promote sustainability and equity. 

Lumpkin Foundation

USDA (United States Department of Agriculture)

USDA (United States Department of Agriculture)

 Provides funding and advocacy to strengthen local food systems, with a focus on community well-being and economic opportunity. 

USDA (United States Department of Agriculture)

USDA (United States Department of Agriculture)

USDA (United States Department of Agriculture)

 Federal partner supporting programs through grants like HFFI, SNAP-Ed, and technical assistance to improve food access and support local agriculture. 

Chicago Food Policy Action Council (CFPAC)

Chicago Food Policy Action Council (CFPAC)

Chicago Food Policy Action Council (CFPAC)

 Advocates for equitable food policies and supports coordination among stakeholders in Chicago’s regional food system. 

Street Vendors Association

Chicago Food Policy Action Council (CFPAC)

Chicago Food Policy Action Council (CFPAC)

 Represents and empowers local street vendors by promoting fair policies, business development, and health and safety compliance. 

Little Village Community Foundation

Chicago Food Policy Action Council (CFPAC)

CDPH (Chicago Department of Public Health)

 Community-based organization promoting economic development, health, and culture in Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood. 

CDPH (Chicago Department of Public Health)

CDPH (Chicago Department of Public Health)

CDPH (Chicago Department of Public Health)

 Public health partner supporting nutrition, wellness, and food security initiatives aligned with city-wide health goals. 

Blue Door Neighborhood Center

CDPH (Chicago Department of Public Health)

Chicago Region Food System Fund

 A wellness and community hub by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois offering health education, services, and resource connections. 

Chicago Region Food System Fund

CDPH (Chicago Department of Public Health)

Chicago Region Food System Fund

 A regional funder investing in local food resilience, supply chain innovation, and food equity across the Chicagoland area. 

Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership

 Workforce development partner providing job training, placement, and employer engagement services to connect residents with food-sector careers. 

Contact Us

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