Funding to help King County Food Businesses switch to durable foodware
Why?
Businesses can save money and reduce waste by switching from disposable plates, cups, and cutlery to reusable food service ware for dine-in customers. Unfortunately, the upfront cost of switching from disposable service ware to reusable service ware can be a barrier for many businesses.
Thus, Zero Waste Washington is offering cash assistance to King County businesses (excluding the City of Seattle) so they can buy the reusable service ware that they need for their restaurants and coffee shops. These mini-grants will cover up to $500 for the purchase of reusable products.
In addition, businesses can get up to $1,000 for dishwasher upgrades if they are also purchasing reusable foodware.
How does this work?
If you think this might be a good fit for your business all you need to do is fill out the simple application, take a picture or scan it, and send it to Ashley Whitley at ashley@zerowastewashington.org.. Once the application is approved, you may purchase the items that you need and send the receipts to Ashley., Then Zero Waste Washington can send you a check or online reimbursement, per your preference.
Receipts are necessary for reimbursement!
What types of reusable products can you buy?
This funding opportunity is available for baskets, plates, bowls, ramekins, cups, trays, utensils, bulk dispensers, sauce and condiment cups, and more.
Important note: The mini-grant will only the cost of reusable products if they are replacing disposable items. For example, you can use this cash assistance if you are using disposable plastic utensils but would like to switch to metal utensils. You cannot use this mini-grant if you are already using metal utensils but would like to purchase more.
If you would like to purchase an item but you are not sure if it’s covered, feel free to reach out to Ashley.
What if I want to use reusables for my to-go orders?
We would love it if businesses were able to reduce their waste from their to-go orders as well. The mini-grants can also cover up to $500 for a reusable to-go service such as reusables.com or Okapi.
My business has multiple locations, can I still apply?
Yes! Any of the locations that are in King County (but not Seattle) will qualify. Each location will be able to receive the full $500 for durables and $1000 for dishwasher upgrades.
If you have a location in Seattle, you can apply for similar funding from the City of Seattle.
Where can I buy the items from?
You may purchase the items from any supplier that you choose. https://www.webstaurantstore.com/ has been a popular choice for purchasing durables and dishwasher accessories.
Please Contact Ashley Whitley with any questions or suggestions:
ashley@zerowastewashington.org
(760) 547-3361
