Dear Friends of Foodie Fest,
As we revel in the aromas, tastes, and retail therapy planned at Foodie Fest, it’s easy to get swept away by the delights without realizing the challenges faced by the passionate individuals behind each delectable dish and unique retail offering.
Behind the scenes of Foodie Fest, a silent struggle persists among our local food and retail businesses. The battle for funding to secure supplies, equipment, and essential services often overshadows the pleasure of preparation. It’s this stark reality that has ignited a flame of determination within us – a commitment to support and uplift those who enrich our community with their culinary creations and innovative products.
Thus, with great excitement and a deep sense of purpose, we unveil the Foodie Fest Small Business Relief Fund, affectionately known as the Foodie Fest Fund. This initiative, led by the Bigger Than Food Foundation, is more than just a financial endeavor; it’s a lifeline for our local entrepreneurs, a lighthouse of hope in uncertain times.
Our mission is clear: to fuel the growth and success of our beloved local food and retail businesses by providing essential financial and technical support. With your generosity, we aim to offer micro grants of $2,500 each, totaling an annual fund of $350,000. These grants will serve as catalysts for innovation, enabling entrepreneurs to purchase supplies, acquire equipment, and invest in marketing services, thus propelling their businesses to new heights of success in the marketplace.
But our support doesn’t end there. We believe in nurturing not just businesses, but the dreams and aspirations of their owners. That’s why grant awardees will gain access to invaluable resources, including a four-week training and entrepreneurship development program, Boss Up Businesses, at the esteemed Tom Love Innovation HUB & Startup OU. Here, they will sharpen their skills, expand their knowledge, and emerge as empowered leaders ready to conquer the challenges of the business world.
The impact of your investment in the Foodie Fest Fund extends far beyond financial returns. It’s about fostering small business growth, boosting the local economy, and preserving the rich culinary culture that shapes our city. With your support, we anticipate up to 300% growth in revenue sales for our awardees within just 60 days, ensuring their sustainability and contributions to the economic prosperity of our community.
Furthermore, your contributions are not just acts of generosity; they are investments in the future of Oklahoma City. As proud supporters of the Foodie Fest Fund, you will receive official tax-deductible letters from the Bigger Than Food Foundation, affirming your invaluable role in nurturing local talent and fostering community development.
So, my friends, I invite you to join us on this remarkable journey. Whether you represent a corporation, a private foundation, or are an individual with a passion for making a difference, your partnership is invaluable. Together, let us ensure that Foodie Fest remains not just a celebration of food and retail, but a testament to the resilience, creativity, and unwavering spirit of our beloved Oklahoma City.
To make your contribution and become part of this transformative initiative, please visit https://givebutter.com/foodiefestfund . For those who prefer traditional methods, checks are warmly welcomed, and we offer convenient options for scheduling monthly giving.
Thank you for your unwavering support, your boundless generosity, and your shared vision of a brighter, more prosperous future for all.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Apollo Woods, MBA
Executive Director
Bigger Than Food Foundation (501c3)
