Getting Started
Learn the basics of AltGrocery
What is AltGrocery?
AltGrocery is a community-first platform connecting people with local food businesses. We help you discover farms, markets, artisanal producers, and specialty food shops in your area while building stronger local food communities through engagement and gamification.
Our platform combines practical local food discovery with engaging rewards and community features. Whether you're looking for fresh produce, artisanal goods, or want to explore your local food scene, AltGrocery makes it easy to find, connect with, and support local businesses while earning rewards for your engagement.
Platform Features & Gamification
AltGrocery combines practical local food discovery with engaging gamification features in a unified platform experience. All features work together seamlessly to encourage real-world exploration and community engagement.
Discovery & Commerce
Find and connect with local food businesses through business profiles, product listings, event discovery, and QR code interactions. Follow your favorite businesses and stay updated on their latest offerings and promotions.
Rewards & Community
Earn XP points for visits and engagement, unlock achievement badges, and join food trail campaigns. Explore with friends in party mode, compete on leaderboards, and customize your profile and avatar.
One Platform, Complete Experience: Everything works together seamlessly. Visit a farmers market, complete a food trail, or discover new businesses - it all contributes to your profile and helps strengthen the local food community.
Who is AltGrocery for?
AltGrocery serves diverse communities interested in local food systems, from casual shoppers to dedicated local food advocates.
Conscious Consumers
People seeking fresh, local food options who want to support local businesses. This includes health-conscious individuals, families, and environmental sustainability advocates looking for alternatives to conventional grocery shopping.
Food Enthusiasts
Culinary adventurers seeking unique ingredients, home cooks, and professional chefs interested in food culture, traditions, and seasonal eating. Perfect for those who appreciate quality ingredients and want to connect with their sources.
Local Food Businesses
Farmers, agricultural producers, artisanal food makers, independent retailers, and food service providers looking to connect with local customers and build community relationships through digital engagement.
Community Builders
Local food system advocates, community organizers, educational institutions, and municipal planners working to strengthen local food networks and economic resilience in their communities.
Supported Countries & Regions
AltGrocery is expanding across North America, with plans for international growth based on community interest and local food ecosystem development.
United States
Currently active in the Pacific Northwest (Washington, Oregon), California Central Valley and Coast, Northeast Corridor (New York, Vermont, Maine), and Great Lakes Region (Michigan, Wisconsin). We're expanding to additional states quarterly based on community demand.
Canada
Active in British Columbia Lower Mainland and Southern Ontario (GTA and surrounding areas). Maritime Provinces pilot program is underway, with Prairie Provinces expansion planned for the coming year.
Expansion Timeline: We're prioritizing regions with strong local food communities. Contact us if you're interested in bringing AltGrocery to your area.
Device Compatibility & Accessibility
AltGrocery is web-based and responsive across devices, optimized for mobile-first use. GPS, camera, and QR code capabilities are required to access all features.
Technical Requirements
To access all features, you'll need GPS/location services for check-ins and local discovery, camera access for QR code scanning and photo uploads, a stable internet connection (3G or better), and a modern browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge).
Supported Devices
Compatible with mobile devices (iOS 14+, Android 8.0+), tablets (iPad, Android tablets), and desktop computers (Windows, macOS, Linux). Available as a Progressive Web App that can be installed on your mobile home screen.
Accessibility Features
AltGrocery includes screen reader compatibility, keyboard navigation support, high contrast mode, adjustable font sizes, and alternative text for all images to ensure accessibility for all users.