DoorDash is dedicated to building programs that work for our merchants, Dashers, consumers and the planet. Ahead of Earth Day, we’re excited to share how we’re empowering businesses and customers to pave a greener path forward.
Partnering with DeliverZero and Opening Applications for DoorDash’s Accelerator for Local Restaurants New York and New Jersey Cohorts
Today, DoorDash announced a call for applications for the New York and New Jersey cohorts of our Accelerator for Local Restaurants to help level the playing field for entrepreneurs and increase access to opportunity for small businesses, including those owned by women, immigrants, and people of color.
In partnership with Accion Opportunity Fund, Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey, and The Five-Borough Chamber Alliance, the Accelerator for Local Restaurants will provide $10,000 grants, training and education, one-on-one customized business advising, marketing benefits, climate-friendly packaging, and more to eligible New York and New Jersey restaurant owners.
This year, we’re proud to partner with DeliverZero to provide reusable packaging to all selected restaurants – the equivalent of up to six months of free packaging for each business – as they transition their businesses to a more sustainable future.
Packaging is a critical component of restaurant delivery and takeout, which is why we work to increase access to packaging solutions for merchants and consumers. Reusable containers designed to be returned and reused, rather than thrown away after a single use, are better for business and the environment. Shifting to reusable packaging can help restaurants reduce operating expenses, improve the quality and experience of their food transport, and reduce packaging waste and greenhouse gas emissions. According to DeliverZero, 86% of DeliverZero customers report ordering from restaurants they’ve never tried before because they offer DeliverZero’s reusable, returnable containers and restaurants save over 40% on packaging costs for every DeliverZero order. We’re excited to partner with DeliverZero to help local restaurants access reusable solutions that help grow their businesses in sustainable ways.
We’re looking forward to creating a greener future with our next Accelerator cohorts and are seeking applications from local restaurant owners in New York City and in parts of New Jersey (Bergen, Essex, Hudson, or Union counties) who operate three or fewer restaurant locations. Restaurants are required to have been operating for two or more years and employ 50 or fewer people across all locations.
Applications are open until May 12, 2023. Apply HERE.
The 8-week long program will begin June 3, 2023 through a combination of in-person and online learning opportunities.
Updating DoorDash Features to Enable More Sustainable Choices
Our choices have a significant impact. To make it easier for customers to make sustainable choices, we’re launching updated features to showcase merchants that offer eco-friendly food and packaging.
Plant-based foods produce less emissions than animal products so opting for meatless and animal-product free alternatives is a great way to practice sustainable food choices. To help customers more easily make sustainable choices, we’re also featuring merchants offering vegan, vegetarian, and meatless options in addition to merchants who provide reusable packaging via carousels in the App.
We look forward to growing and evolving our sustainability programs and partnerships at DoorDash and hope we all treat every day like Earth Day and protect our planet together.
