The National Grocers Association Foundation has officially launched the SNAP EBT Modernization Technical Assistance Center (SEMTAC) website to assist grocers with their SNAP online purchasing pilot questions.
Funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service, the SEMTAC website has been designed to serve as a resource hub, offering information and technical assistance to retailers who are considering or are currently navigating the enrollment process for the USDA’s SNAP online purchasing pilot.
The site offers guidance to manage the challenges that grocers, particularly those in underserved areas, can experience when seeking to offer SNAP online purchasing. The challenges associated with online transactions and e-commerce technology can be particularly daunting for retailers less familiar with these platforms or the technical requirements.
SEMTAC provides retailers with access to USDA-approved resources and personalized, one-on-one technical assistance from industry experts. This approach ensures that retailers have the support to successfully establish their SNAP e-commerce presence.
“As the digital landscape continues to evolve, it is essential for SNAP retailers to have the right tools and assistance to navigate the complexities of online platforms,” said Cindy Long, FNS administrator.
“The launch of this technical assistance center will provide retailers the knowledge and support they need to offer a seamless online grocery shopping experience for SNAP participants.”
In addition, the SEMTAC website also will offer updates and technical assistance on other SNAP modernization updates as those programs become a reality, including the SNAP Mobile Payments Pilot, which will test contactless payment options.
As these programs develop and expand, the NGA Foundation and the USDA will keep retailers informed and equipped with the latest resources.
“We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new website, which represents a significant step forward in our commitment to providing valuable resources and technical assistance to get more grocers onboarded onto the SNAP online purchasing pilot,” said Brielle Underwood, NGA Foundation project director.
The SNAP EBT Modernization Technical Assistance Center (SEMTAC) is a cooperative agreement between the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service and the NGA Foundation.
Read more association news from The Shelby Report.
