WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 31, 2025) – SHIA Restaurant and the Korean Community Service Center of the Greater Washington (KCSC) are proud to launch the inaugural K-Food Grant Initiative, a program dedicated to elevating the rich history and diverse flavors of Korean cuisine beyond well-known dishes like kimbap and Korean barbecue. Starting today through September 30, the next generation of Korean American, Korean diaspora leaders, and individuals passionate about K-Food are invited to share their pioneering projects that creatively highlight traditional Korean food in a new light.

Ultimately, two $4,000 grants will be awarded to talented individuals who are passionately working on creative initiatives to bring unique aspects of K-Food to the forefront and are poised to make a significant impact within the greater DMV area.

“We are looking for innovative minds who want to elevate and expand how Korean food in America is enjoyed and shared,” said Edward Lee, Executive Chef and Owner of SHIA Restaurant. “Culinary culture is constantly evolving as tradition is re-interpreted and re-imagined by the leaders of tomorrow.”

“We are proud to partner with SHIA to invest in the next generation of creative culinary talent,” said HaeJin Rim, KCSC Board Member. “The K-Food Grant initiative is not just about celebrating Korean cuisines, it’s about empowering emerging leaders boldly shaping the future of Korean food in America. At KCSC we believe that culinary heritage thrives when it’s shaped, reimagined, and passed on to the next generation.”

Both SHIA and KCSC are committed to fostering the future of Korean cuisine in the U.S. starting by nurturing those entrepreneurs dedicated to making a lasting impact in their community. The deadline for submissions is September 30, 2025. For more information and to apply for the K-Food Grant Initiative, go to https://shiarestaurant.org/kfoodgrant.