NEW ORLEANS — Applications are now open for the FOOD: Fueling Opportunities for Owner Development Program, a grant and training initiative aimed at supporting LGBTQ+ and allied restaurant owners, with a local focus through a partnership with the New Orleans LGBTQ+ & Allied Chamber of Commerce.
The program is led by the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce and supported by the Grubhub Community Fund. It combines direct financial assistance with structured virtual learning designed to help independent restaurants strengthen operations and build long-term sustainability.
Program Structure and Funding
Eligible restaurants can apply for grants of up to $2,500, which may be used for a range of business needs, including equipment or supply purchases, marketing and digital upgrades, staff training, community programming, or other general improvements.
Organizers say the 2026 program emphasizes longer-term business support by pairing grant funding with structured training and peer learning, an approach intended to give restaurant owners practical tools to strengthen their operations rather than relying on one-time financial assistance.
Participating restaurants will be placed into one of two e-learning cohorts, giving owners access to guided training sessions and peer learning opportunities focused on practical business challenges facing independent food operators.
Application Timeline and Cohort Details
Applications for both cohorts opened Dec. 22 and will remain open through Feb. 10, 2026.
The virtual cohort sessions are scheduled as follows:
- Cohort 1: Jan. 26, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. CT
- Cohort 2: Feb. 17, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. CT
An optional peer learning roundtable is set for Feb. 23, from noon – 1:00 p.m. CT, providing an additional forum for restaurant owners to share insights and challenges with fellow participants.
Through its partnership with NOLAC, the program is positioned to reach New Orleans–area restaurateurs who are navigating rising costs, workforce pressures, and evolving consumer expectations, while also seeking to preserve the city’s diverse, locally owned dining scene.
Applications and eligibility details are available through the Grubhub Community Fund grant portal.
