Community Uplift
Community Uplift
We showcase the creative ways the food industry engages, nourishes and uplifts the communities it serves with an annual awards program.
From programs addressing food insecurity to neighborhood improvement and offering social impact, the food industry is dedicated to uplifting communities across the globe.
2025 Community Uplift Awards
Click the round thumbnails to see recipients and honorable mentions in each category.
Award Criteria
Your company must be an FMI Member to submit a nomination. Food retailer programs, supplier programs, and programs where food retailers and suppliers partner together may submit nominations.
Nominations for the 2025 awards are now closed.
Community Uplift Award Categories
- Social Impact Programs – Programs focused on sustainability, food waste reduction, responsible sourcing, package waste reduction, animal welfare, water use, or carbon emissions reduction.
- Programs Addressing Food Insecurity - Food drives, food bank donations, commitments to increase access to fresh food in underserved areas.
- Neighborhood Health Improvement Programs - Nutrition education, blood drives, health related runs/walks, sustainability education and community involvement.
Winners Receive
- First place recipients in each category receive a $1,000 donation to enhance the program and a plaque recognizing the program.
- Program recognition on FMI website and digital communications.
- Inclusion in FMI media initiatives recognizing grocery store community contributions.
- Inclusion in an online idea bank for food industry community service projects.
Nominations are Judged Based On
- Store-level, corporate and community participation.
- Addressing a community need.
- Breadth and depth of the program.
- Originality and creativity.
Strategic Partner
The Shelby Report serves as a strategic partner for the FMI Community Uplift Awards. The Shelby Report will be advising on the awards process, serving on a panel of judges and helping to amplify the stories of the FMI Community Uplift Awards recipients.

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