StopWaste offers grants to help replace single-use disposable foodware with reusable systems in closed-environment dining facilities. Controlled settings with high meal volumes are ideal for reusable alternatives — items are used on-site, collected, washed, and returned for reuse.

Funding Amount: Up to $50,000 per grant
Total Available: $200,000 per funding cycle, with rolling applications accepted if funds remain

Who Can Apply

Eligible organizations in Alameda County include:

  • School districts and individual schools
  • Colleges and universities
  • Corporate Campuses
  • Hospitals and healthcare facilities
  • Sports and entertainment venues
  • Reuse service providers partnering with eligible institutions

Requirements:

  • Located in Alameda County
  • Serve a minimum of 150 meals daily
  • Schools must provide a letter of support from a district administrator

Not eligible:

  • Restaurants, cafes, and retail food businesses — see Mini-Grants instead.
  • Recycling or composting projects.

What's Covered

  • Reusable foodware: Trays, plates, bowls, cups, utensils
  • Dishwashing equipment: Dishwasher installation or upgrades, drying racks, dish tables, dish racks
  • Dispensing systems: Reusable milk dispensers with cups, bulk condiment stations
  • Service contracts: Off-site dishwashing and reuse services — see Reuse Service Providers

Not covered: Staff payroll, facility construction, vehicles.

Insurance: Grant recipients must maintain insurance for the duration of the contract. Review insurance requirements carefully before applying — insurance must be secured before the contract can be executed.

Selection Priorities

Applications are evaluated with priority given to:

  1. K-12 schools — highest priority, especially those serving high percentages of free and reduced-price lunch students
  2. Infrastructure development — projects that create or enhance reusable foodware infrastructure, such as centralized dishwashing facilities
  3. Multi-building campuses and large institutions — particularly public academic settings
  4. New grantees — first-time grant recipients
  5. Geographic equity — projects in eastern and southern Alameda County
  1. Express interest by contacting Ben Duggan at bduggan@stopwaste.org
  2. Discuss project scope and facility requirements
  3. Submit application through apply.stopwaste.org with project details and budget

Related

reusables

Schools & Campuses

Join the growing number of K–12 schools and college campuses that are replacing disposable cafeteria items—like plates, bowls, utensils, and cups—with durable, reusable options. StopWaste provides resources, grants, and hands-on support to help you make the transition.
Person using their reusable mug at a cafe

Reusable Foodware

StopWaste provides funding, technical support, and resources to help Alameda County food businesses, schools, and institutions make the transition to reusable foodware.

Reusable Foodware Mini-Grants

Up to $500 for Alameda County restaurants, cafes, and retail food businesses to purchase reusable foodware for dine-in service.