Addressing Food Disparities: How the Healthy Food Fund Supports Local Businesses

In rural areas across northern Minnesota and Wisconsin, locally-owned grocery stores serve as more than just places to buy food—they are essential lifelines for entire communities. Many residents in these areas face the harsh reality of food deserts, where access to fresh, affordable groceries is limited, and traveling long distances to larger supermarkets isn’t always an option.

Jesse DeGross, owner of Pioneer Market and Deli in Birchwood, WI, shares the responsibility of keeping shelves stocked, knowing that for many locals, walking to his store is the only viable choice. Transportation costs, time constraints, and economic challenges make even a simple grocery run a burden.

“When you think about these outlying, smaller communities that do have grocery stores, many of them are just hanging on,” said Liz Seefeldt, Executive Director of BRICK Food Shelf. “How do you keep a grocery store in a community? That sounds like a really big challenge.”

That’s where the Entrepreneur Fund’s Healthy Food Fund program comes into play. By providing financial resources and business expertise, the program helps sustain these vital stores, ensuring that fresh food remains accessible in communities where the nearest full scale grocery store might be over 20 miles away−one way.

“I know a lot of the people that come here, and I know a lot of people in the neighborhood and the community have wanted to see the store stay here,” said DeGross. “I see a lot of potential for something great here.”

How the Healthy Food Fund Can Help

The Healthy Food Fund provides low-interest loans with flexible terms to help local grocery stores, convenience stores, and food producers grow and thrive.

• ‍Financial Boost – Access affordable capital for:
  • Upgrading equipment  
  • Expanding space or purchasing a store  
  • Investing in technology  
  • Buying inventory & hiring staff  
  • Improving interiors and more
• Expert Business Advising - No-cost guidance on financial management, marketing, and long-term growth.
• Community Impact - Strengthening local food systems to ensure access to fresh, nutritious options for all.
• Interested?
  • See if your business qualifies for this specialized fund. Complete this no-obligation form or contact us at info@efund.org, 218-623-5747.
  • Do you know a locally owned grocery store or food producer that could benefit from this program? Submit a referral here or contact us at info@efund.org.