FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 16, 2025

 

NORTH FLINT FOOD MARKET RECEIVES $1.5 MILLION GRANT FROM MOTT FOUNDATION TO SUPPORT OPENING

Funding Boost Supports Startup Costs, Job Creation, and Community-Owned Grocery Store

 

(Flint, Mich.) — The North Flint Food Market (NFFM) has received a $1.5 million grant from the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation to support its final startup costs and help bring the long-awaited community-owned grocery store closer to opening on the north side of Flint.

 

The grant was awarded to the North Flint Reinvestment Corporation, the nonprofit entity behind the development of the NFFM, and marks a pivotal moment in the co-op’s journey to expand healthy food access, create job and career opportunities, and establish local ownership in one of Flint’s most underserved neighborhoods.

 

“This investment represents more than just financial support—it’s a strong vote of confidence in the people of North Flint and our shared vision for transformation through community ownership,” said Brigitte Jackson, Board Chair of the North Flint Food Market. “We are grateful for the continued support from the Mott Foundation and are excited for what’s ahead.”

 

The $1.5 million in new funding will be used for staff development and training, inventory, operating costs, and project management at the market’s future location at 5402 N. Clio Road, Flint, MI 48504. The funds will also support hiring a general manager and securing a wholesale grocery supplier in the coming weeks. The store’s opening is tentatively planned for Fall/Winter 2025.

 

The North Flint Food Market will be Genesee County’s first member-owned co-op grocery store. It already has nearly 1,000 member-owners, including individuals, businesses, churches, and community organizations. Unlike traditional grocers, the co-op model allows residents and stakeholders to directly invest in and shape the future of their local food system.

 

While momentum is building, NFFM leaders emphasize that community participation remains critical to long-term success. “We’re calling on new residents to join the movement and are encouraging current members to complete their membership payments to become full members,” said Jackson.

 

To learn more about how to become a member-owner or to support the project, visit www.northflintfoodmarket.org.

 

The North Flint Food Market’s mission is to provide healthy, affordable food, create meaningful job opportunities, and empower residents through community ownership—all while transforming Flint neighborhoods from within. The store is located at 5402 N Clio Rd, Flint, MI 48504. If you have any questions about membership, reach out to (810) 620-1974. Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/NFFMKT.

 

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