Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce Small Business Grants

The Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce administers a series of small business grant programs through its regional divisions, including the Biloxi, Gulfport, Long Beach, and Pass Christian Chambers of Commerce. As a membership-based organization, the Chamber works to support economic development, strengthen the regional business climate, and provide resources and advocacy for local businesses. These grants are designed to assist small businesses operating within the Chamber’s service areas by providing financial support for business development and growth initiatives. The purpose of the Small Business Grants program is to provide direct financial assistance to eligible Chamber member businesses that demonstrate a clear plan for growth, sustainability, or operational improvement. Funding is intended to support specific projects proposed by applicants, which may include business expansion, equipment purchases, marketing initiatives, or other activities that enhance business performance. While the exact allowable uses are not rigidly defined, applicants must clearly articulate how the requested funds will be used and how the investment will contribute to measurable business outcomes. Eligibility for the program is limited to businesses that are current members in good standing of the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce and are actively operating at the time of application. Additionally, businesses must meet the definition of a small business, which is defined as having 50 or fewer full-time employees. Applicants must be located within designated service area zip codes corresponding to the Chamber divisions of Biloxi, Gulfport, Long Beach, or Pass Christian. The program is therefore geographically restricted to specific communities along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The application process requires applicants to complete a detailed application form and submit supporting documentation. Required materials include a completed application form, a W-9 form, and promotional materials such as a brochure, business card, or flyer that describes the business. Applicants must also provide narrative responses outlining their business mission, future plans, proposed use of grant funds, and methods for measuring project success. The application may be submitted via email or delivered physically to the Chamber office. By applying, businesses consent to potential site visits by Chamber representatives or evaluation personnel. Applications opened on March 25, 2026 and must be submitted no later than 12:00 p.m. on May 4, 2026. All applications must be received by the deadline, including mailed submissions. Following submission, applications are reviewed by a selection committee, and decisions are final. The Chamber reserves the right to modify or limit the program at its discretion. Selected applicants will receive grant funding via check, contingent upon submission of required documentation such as the W-9 form. The evaluation process is based on the completeness of the application, the clarity and feasibility of the proposed project, and the applicant’s ability to demonstrate meaningful business impact. Applicants are encouraged to provide detailed and well-supported responses, as well as documentation that strengthens their case. While specific award amounts vary, grants start at a minimum of $500, and multiple awards may be distributed across the participating Chamber divisions. The program reflects the Chamber’s broader mission to foster local economic vitality and support small business success within its service regions.

Ensure the application is complete, clearly written, and includes detailed explanations of how the grant funds will be used and measured for success. Provide strong supporting documentation to strengthen your proposal.