UK Researchers Can Apply for Food as Health Grants

By Blake Jackson

The Food as Health Alliance (FAHA) at the University of Kentucky is offering pilot research funding focused on food to improve health and strengthen communities statewide.

FAHA, in the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, will provide up to $50,000 to UK faculty and researchers. Projects should address nutrition, food security, agriculture, and community well-being with farmers, healthcare providers, schools, nonprofits, and agencies.

Applications are open through Sept. 4, 2026. Projects will begin in November 2026 for up to 18 months. Priority will be given to early-career researchers, and teams must include members from two UK colleges, centers, institutes, or units.

FAHA said, “The Bluegrass State has long faced serious health challenges tied to food and nutrition. Many families in the state, especially in rural areas, struggle with food insecurity, chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease, and limited access to fresh, healthy food.”

“A goal of the Food as Health Alliance is to create opportunities for collaboration that might not otherwise occur,” said Makenzie Barr-Porter, Ph.D., co-director of FAHA.

“We want this pilot funding program to encourage collaboration across sectors and build the evidence needed to scale impactful programs and attract future investment. We're excited to support projects that advance the connection between food, health and community well-being.”

Priorities include food and nutrition security, food as medicine, chronic disease prevention, healthcare partnerships, community research, Extension education, and sustainable food systems.

Outside organizations cannot apply independently but are encouraged to collaborate with UK-led teams. Projects are expected to build evidence and partnerships supporting larger grants within 12 to 24 months after completion. Awardees will present findings at a FAHA Symposium in 2027 or 2028.

Researchers should review the Request for Proposals and submit one PDF through the online application form.

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