What Is the Restaurant Revitalization Fund?
The Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) is a federal grant program created by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Its purpose is to provide financial relief to qualifying restaurants, bars, and other foodservice businesses that suffered revenue losses due to the COVID19 pandemic.
Unlike a loan, the RRF provides a direct cash grant that does not need to be repaid, provided the recipient complies with the programs rules and uses the money for eligible expenses.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for an RRF award, a business must meet all of the following criteria:
- Be an independent restaurant, bar, or foodservice operation (including food trucks) located in the United States.
- Have gross receipts that were less than 100% of the same quarter in 2019 (or the most recent quarter before the pandemic for newer businesses).
- Be a forprofit entity that is not a franchisee of a chain that has received other federal assistance that exceeds $5million.
- Have a valid Employer Identification Number (EIN) and be able to verify payroll and other expense records.
- Not be a publicly traded company or a business that has received a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan that covered the same expenses for which RRF funding is sought.
Restaurants can apply whether they are open, partially closed, or temporarily shuttered, as long as they can demonstrate pandemicrelated revenue loss.
How to Apply for the RRF
StepbyStep Process
- Gather Documentation
- 2020 and 2021 quarterly gross receipts reports.
- Payroll records (including Form 941, W2s, and state unemployment filings).
- Proof of rent or lease agreements, utilities, and other operating expenses.
- Any PPP loan documentation, if applicable.
- Register on Grants.gov
Create an account, verify your email, and complete the organization profile.
- Locate the RRF Funding Opportunity
Search for Restaurant Revitalization Fund or use the funding identifier
2021-0000000(the exact number may vary by year). - Complete the Application Package
- Answer eligibility questions.
- Provide the requested financial statements and supporting documents.
- Specify the amount requested (up to $10million, or up to 10% of 2019 gross receipts, whichever is lower).
- Submit the Application
After reviewing all entries, click Submit. You will receive a confirmation email with a tracking number.
- Wait for Review
USDA will evaluate the application, verify eligibility, and determine the award amount. The review period typically ranges from 30 to 60 days.
- Accept the Award
If approved, you will receive a Notice of Award (NOA) with instructions for disbursement and reporting requirements.
What the Grant Can Cover
The RRF allows recipients to use the funds for a wide range of operating expenses, including:
| Expense Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Payroll | Wages, salaries, tips, and employee benefits for employees who were retained or rehired. |
| Operating Expenses | Rent, utilities, insurance, supplies, and food & beverage purchases. |
| Technology | Online ordering platforms, contactless payment systems, and website upgrades. |
| Marketing | Advertising campaigns aimed at reengaging customers. |
| Capital Expenditures | Equipment purchases or upgrades that support safe dining (e.g., ventilation, outdoor heating). |
Funds **cannot** be used for debt repayment, acquisition of a business, or any expense that was already covered by other federal assistance programs.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Document Every Expense Keep receipts, invoices, and payroll reports organized. Auditors may request proof during the postaward review.
- Calculate the Exact Loss Use a reliable method to compare 20202021 quarterly receipts against 2019 baselines. Consistency will reduce questions from reviewers.
- Dont DoubleCount Ensure that any expense you claim has not already been reimbursed through PPP, EIDL, or other programs.
- Stay Within the Cap The maximum award is the lesser of $10million or 10% of 2019 gross receipts. Plan your request accordingly.
- Use the Correct Forms The USDA requires a signed certification that the information provided is accurate. Missing signatures can delay processing.
- Submit Early Applications are processed on a firstcome, firstserved basis until the fund pool is exhausted. Early submission improves your chances.
- Plan for Reporting After you receive the grant, youll need to file a postaward report documenting how the money was spent. Set up a simple spreadsheet now to track every transaction.
- Seek Professional Help if Needed Accountants, grant consultants, or local Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) can review your application before submission.
