StopWaste - $500 Reusable Foodware Mini-Grants

Click Here to Learn More About and Apply for this Grant

This program helps restaurants, cafes, markets, food courts, and other eligible food businesses replace single-use disposable foodware with reusable options for dine-in service—while also providing free hands-on support during the transition.

💰 What Can You Get?

Eligible businesses can receive up to $500 worth of reusable foodware, including:

• 🍽️ Plates and bowls
• ☕ Cups and mugs
• 🥢 Forks, knives, spoons, and chopsticks
• 🍱 Serving trays and baskets

StopWaste also provides free guidance and hands-on support to help businesses choose and transition to reusable foodware. There is no complicated paperwork required.

🏪 Who Can Apply?

The mini-grant is available to eligible food businesses located in Alameda County, including:

• Restaurants and cafes
• Retail food courts and markets
• Food trucks with dine-in seating
• Other retail food operations

This could be a particularly useful opportunity for restaurants and food businesses looking to reduce waste and move toward more sustainable dine-in operations.

📝 How to Apply

The process is simple:

1. Submit the interest/application form
2. Schedule a consultation with StopWaste staff
3. Work with StopWaste to select the right reusable foodware
4. Receive your reusable items and start using them

The application asks for basic information such as your business location, number of dine-in seats, meals served, and whether you have a commercial dish machine.

🌱 Why Consider It?

Switching from disposable to reusable foodware can help businesses reduce waste, lower ongoing foodware costs, and create a more sustainable dine-in experience. StopWaste notes that local businesses have successfully made the transition while reducing disposable foodware use.