Get up to $5,000 of free reusable foodware from the City of San Francisco.
The San Francisco Environment Department is offering incentives of up to $5,000 to support large institutions in transitioning from single-use disposable foodware to durable, reusable alternatives. This is a limited-time opportunity. We encourage interested institutions to apply as soon as possible.
Why make the switch?
Reusable foodware helps your institution:
- Save money by reducing disposable foodware purchases and waste hauling costs
- Cut waste and support San Francisco’s zero waste goals
- Elevate the customer experience with higher-quality, durable dishware
- Lessen health impact of chemicals found in disposable foodware
- Show leadership in sustainability and meet public expectations
- Reduce litter and support a cleaner, healthier environment
Who can apply?
Eligible applicants are large institutions that serve food at scale in San Francisco. Examples include:
- Entertainment venues (e.g., stadiums, theaters)
- Hotels
- Health facilities (e.g., hospitals, clinics)
- Colleges, universities, and K–12 schools
- Shopping malls and corporate campuses
- Government or civic institutions
- Large feeding shelters or community feeding sites
Not sure if you qualify? Fill out the form below and we’ll follow up to discuss your eligibility.
What can the funding cover?
Funds can support either:
- In-house reusable systems: Purchase of reusable dishware, trays, utensils, bins, dishwashing racks
- Reusable service providers: Contracting with a third-party service to supply, collect, wash, and redistribute reusable items—ideal for institutions without dishwashing space.
Get started by completing the form below and a member of the Environment Department's staff will follow up with you directly.
Case Studies
Check out our case study featuring three local entertainment venues that have successfully piloted reusable cup services for their on-going events, resulting in cost savings and waste reduction!
ReThink Disposable’s case study with University of San Francisco’s (USF) Market Café. By transitioning to reusable foodware for onsite dining, USF saved more than $150,000 in disposable foodware costs by eliminating single use disposables and eliminated over 20,000 pounds of waste!
Contact information
Both institutions and reuse service providers are encouraged to reach out directly to [email protected] for questions about the incentives or interest in the funding.
