Grants for Nonprofits - Business and Commerce

The Catalyst Endowment Fund, managed by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, is offering a competitive funding opportunity centered on "Empowering Future Leaders and Community Builders through Youth Sports in Greater Hartford." This initiative aligns with the foundation's broader mission to foster well-being and development within the community. The program aims to leverage the positive effects of youth sports, such as developing teamwork, leadership, and promoting physical and mental health, to create resilient, confident, and empowered individuals. The fund's focus on bridging access gaps to youth sports directly supports the foundation's strategic priority of creating sustainable support systems for the region's youth. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are youth in Greater Hartford, particularly those in underserved communities who face barriers to accessing sports programs. The overarching impact goal is to empower these young individuals, transforming them into future leaders and community builders. By focusing on sustainable support systems, the program seeks to create lasting positive change beyond the grant duration, addressing systemic inequalities in access to enriching activities. This aligns with a theory of change that posits that providing equitable opportunities in youth sports will lead to enhanced individual development and stronger, more engaged communities. The program's priorities and focus areas are clearly defined to achieve these goals. Infrastructure Development aims to improve existing sports facilities and equipment, ensuring long-term accessibility. Training and Capacity Building initiatives will equip coaches, volunteers, and staff with the skills to deliver high-quality programs, fostering a robust support network. Partnerships and Collaborations are encouraged to strengthen relationships with schools, community organizations, and local businesses, pooling resources and support. Finally, Health and Wellness Integration seeks to embed physical and mental health services within youth sports, promoting holistic well-being and sustained participation. Expected outcomes and measurable results include improved accessibility to youth sports in underserved communities, an increased number of trained coaches and volunteers, stronger community partnerships supporting youth sports, and enhanced physical and mental well-being among participants. The program anticipates fostering increased participation in youth sports, leading to the development of critical life skills such as leadership, teamwork, and resilience. Ultimately, the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving expects these initiatives to contribute to a more equitable and vibrant Greater Hartford, producing a generation of empowered individuals who are prepared to lead and build their communities. The fund has $69,000 available to award, with one or more grants totaling this amount, contingent on the project's size, funding need, and the quality of the proposals submitted in response to the forthcoming Request for Proposal.

This funding opportunity provides up to $5,000 for neighborhood groups in Montgomery County to implement projects that enhance community pride and improve quality of life through collaboration with local government.

This grant provides financial support to LGBTQ+-owned and allied restaurants, cafes, and bars to help them thrive and recover in their communities.

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA) is offering grants under the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) program. This program aims to transform the food system by increasing options, improving access, and creating new and better markets for small and mid-size producers. The core mission is to build a more diversified, distributed, and local food system to enhance its resilience and benefit consumers, producers, and rural communities. The RFSI program targets a broad range of beneficiaries, including agricultural producers and processors (or groups thereof), nonprofit organizations, for-profit entities, local government entities, tribal governments, and institutions such as schools, universities, or hospitals. The primary impact goal is to strengthen the middle of the food supply chain in Pennsylvania. Expected outcomes include increased production capacities for food processors, improved storage for produce and grains, and enhanced aggregation points like food hubs and farmer cooperatives. Funding priorities are aligned with addressing critical gaps in Pennsylvania's middle food supply chain. Specifically, the program prioritizes projects that establish or enhance aggregation points, improve food processing infrastructure (including equipment upgrades and moves to licensed spaces), and expand storage facilities, particularly cold storage in urban areas and storage for identity-preserved grains and dry beans. The USDA also encourages projects that benefit underserved farmers and ranchers, new and beginning farmers, veteran producers, and businesses owned by socially disadvantaged individuals. The grant program offers Simplified Equipment-Only Grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, which do not require cost sharing or matching. These are fixed-price grants solely for equipment purchases, with funds to be awarded no earlier than July 1, 2024, and projects completed by June 30, 2026. This focused approach on equipment aims to directly support tangible improvements in the food system's infrastructure, enabling producers and processors to expand and diversify their operations.

This program provides flexible funding to individuals and organizations in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and 23 Native nations to develop and implement innovative ideas that drive positive change in their communities.

UPDATED NOTICE - PLEASE READ: April 6, 2023 EDA is excited to announce the launch of its new grants management platform: the Economic Development Grants Experience (EDGE). EDGE was developed to streamline the application and grants management process by implementing a single platform with increased transparency, improved user experience, higher data quality, and more efficiency throughout the entire grant lifecycle. As of April 6th, 2023, applications can no longer be submitted on Grants.gov, and will ONLY be accepted through EDGE. To apply in EDGE, please go to: sfgrants.eda.gov. More information on how to apply is provided in the full NOFO. PARTNERSHIP PLANNING program instructions: Please note that applicants will be invited to submit applications through EDGE for the Partnership Planning program. For more information, please reach out to your EDA point of contact. Program Description: EDA makes planning and local technical assistance investments to support economic development, foster job creation, and attract private investment in economically distressed areas of the United States. Under the Planning program, EDA makes Partnership Planning, Short-Term Planning, and State Planning awards to eligible recipients to create and implement regional economic development plans designed to build capacity and guide the economic prosperity and resiliency of an area or region. More specifically, EDA makes Partnership Planning investments to designated planning organizations (i.e., District Organizations) serving EDA-designated Economic Development Districts and to Indian Tribes to facilitate the development, implementation, revision, or replacement of Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies (CEDS), which articulate and prioritize the strategic economic goals of recipients respective regions. EDA also makes Short-Term and State Planning awards for economic development planning activities that guide the eventual creation and retention of high-quality jobs, particularly for the unemployed and underemployed in the Nations most economically distressed regions. Under the Local Technical Assistance program, EDA makes awards to strengthen the capacity of local or State organizations, institutions of higher education, and other eligible entities to undertake and promote effective economic development programs through projects such as feasibility studies, impact analyses, disaster resiliency plans, and project planning. **Please note: While the published Notice of Funding Opportunity (available under "Related Documents") states that the ED900A form and the SF424B form are both required for a complete application, these forms are no longer required and have therefore been removed from the package template.

This funding opportunity supports alumni of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs in Mozambique to create projects that promote economic growth and cultural collaboration between the U.S. and Mozambique, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States.

UPDATED NOTICE - PLEASE READ: April 6, 2023 EDA is excited to announce the launch of its new grants management platform: the Economic Development Grants Experience (EDGE). EDGE was developed to streamline the application and grants management process by implementing a single platform with increased transparency, improved user experience, higher data quality, and more efficiency throughout the entire grant lifecycle. As of April 6th, 2023, applications can no longer be submitted on Grants.gov, and will ONLY be accepted through EDGE. To apply in EDGE, please go to: sfgrants.eda.gov. More information on how to apply is provided in the full NOFO. PARTNERSHIP PLANNING program instructions: Please note that applicants will be invited to submit applications through EDGE for the Partnership Planning program. For more information, please reach out to your EDA point of contact. Program Description: EDA makes planning and local technical assistance investments to support economic development, foster job creation, and attract private investment in economically distressed areas of the United States. Under the Planning program, EDA makes Partnership Planning, Short-Term Planning, and State Planning awards to eligible recipients to create and implement regional economic development plans designed to build capacity and guide the economic prosperity and resiliency of an area or region. More specifically, EDA makes Partnership Planning investments to designated planning organizations (i.e., District Organizations) serving EDA-designated Economic Development Districts and to Indian Tribes to facilitate the development, implementation, revision, or replacement of Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies (CEDS), which articulate and prioritize the strategic economic goals of recipients respective regions. EDA also makes Short-Term and State Planning awards for economic development planning activities that guide the eventual creation and retention of high-quality jobs, particularly for the unemployed and underemployed in the Nations most economically distressed regions. Under the Local Technical Assistance program, EDA makes awards to strengthen the capacity of local or State organizations, institutions of higher education, and other eligible entities to undertake and promote effective economic development programs through projects such as feasibility studies, impact analyses, disaster resiliency plans, and project planning. **Please note: While the published Notice of Funding Opportunity (available under "Related Documents") states that the ED900A form and the SF424B form are both required for a complete application, these forms are no longer required and have therefore been removed from the package template.

This funding opportunity supports educational institutions, nonprofits, and government agencies in Hawaiʻi to develop projects that boost local business growth, job creation, and sustainability on the island.

The Anchor Building Program, provided by the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority (ECGRA), offers funding to local governments, 501(c)3 non-profits, and municipal authorities. Its core mission is to strengthen communities, neighborhoods, and commercial districts by redeveloping, enhancing, and preserving underutilized or vacant buildings. These buildings are seen as catalysts for greater investment and commercial or social activity, aligning with ECGRA's broader goal of fostering community revitalization and economic development in Erie County, Pennsylvania. The program targets historically, culturally, architecturally, and/or socially significant buildings, often located in the heart of the community. The beneficiaries are the communities themselves, small businesses, and residents, through the creation of jobs and enhanced local tax bases. The impact goals are multifaceted: to adaptively re-use significant buildings, to leverage private investment, and to support small businesses. The program directly addresses the financial challenges often associated with re-using older buildings, such as high construction costs relative to modern codes, lack of financial resources, and low appraisal values. Key priorities and focuses of the Anchor Building Program include bridging the funding gap for older building re-use and encouraging the adaptive re-use of buildings with intrinsic historical, architectural, and/or cultural qualities. The program emphasizes the quality of original construction, location, and suitability for new uses, recognizing these factors as crucial for successful redevelopment. ECGRA's strategic priority is evident in its focus on tangible, physical improvements that spur broader economic and social benefits. Expected outcomes and measurable results include increased private investment, job creation, and a strengthened local tax base. The grant size ranges from $10,000 to $100,000 per application, with a minimum request of $25,000, and a grant duration of 24 months. These financial parameters provide a clear framework for the scale of projects supported. The theory of change behind the program is that by investing in key anchor buildings, a ripple effect will be created, stimulating further private investment, fostering small business growth, and ultimately enhancing the overall vitality and economic health of Erie County's communities.

The United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties is offering its 2024 Pillar Grant Program, inviting applications from organizations, local businesses, community clubs, or individuals. This program aligns with the United Way's overarching mission to improve the health, education, and financial stability of all individuals within their communities. Proposals submitted for these grants must serve a public purpose and directly support this mission, focusing on key areas that address significant community needs. The Pillar Grant Program specifically targets communities within Jefferson County and the City of Whitewater, aiming to benefit residents by addressing critical social issues. The program seeks to make a strong, positive impact by funding creative and innovative projects that respond to identified community needs. While the grant details do not explicitly state a "theory of change," the program's structure implies that by investing in specific intervention areas, it will lead to improved community well-being and self-sufficiency. The core priorities and focuses of the Pillar Grants are clearly defined, emphasizing four key areas: early intervention care, mental health and AODA (alcohol and other drug addiction) treatment, overcoming barriers to self-sufficiency, and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Applicants must ensure their proposed projects and programs directly align with one or more of these strategic areas, as they represent the United Way's commitment to addressing the most pressing challenges faced by the communities it serves. Expected outcomes include the accomplishment or initiation of projects within generally a one-year timeframe, leading to tangible improvements in the prioritized areas. While specific measurable results are not detailed in the program description, the emphasis on addressing community needs and providing a strong, positive impact suggests that successful proposals will demonstrate clear objectives and the potential for quantifiable improvements in early intervention, mental health, economic stability, and social equity within Jefferson County and Whitewater.

This funding opportunity is designed to support organizations in Beltrami County that provide housing solutions, including construction, rehabilitation, and supportive services, to improve the availability and affordability of safe housing for low to moderate-income families and individuals.

The New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) offers Support for Targeted Opportunities, a grant program designed to enhance artistic diversity across New York State by valuing artists and creative expression. This aligns with NYSCA's mission to provide support that strengthens the arts and cultural sector within the state. The program focuses on creative performance residencies, subsidized rehearsal spaces for all performing art forms, and folk arts apprenticeships, reflecting a commitment to fostering a wide range of artistic endeavors. The target beneficiaries of this program are nonprofit organizations, State- or Federally-recognized Native American nations, or units of local or federal government in New York State. The program aims to support organizations that provide opportunities for artists and promote diverse artistic expressions. The impact goals include increasing access to resources for performing artists and folk artists, thereby enriching the cultural landscape of New York State. Key priorities and focuses for FY2025 include Folk and Traditional Arts Apprenticeships, Rehearsal and Studio Space for Performing Arts, and Performing Arts Residencies. These specific opportunities demonstrate NYSCA's strategic approach to addressing critical needs within the arts community, ensuring that artists have the necessary support to develop and present their work. The emphasis on these areas suggests a theory of change that by providing foundational support, artistic innovation and accessibility will flourish. The expected outcomes include a greater number of creative performances, increased availability of affordable rehearsal spaces, and the preservation and transmission of folk and traditional arts through apprenticeships. Measurable results for this program are indicated by the award amount of $10,000 for each successful application, providing a tangible measure of the support extended to eligible organizations. The program’s focus on fostering artistic diversity and supporting various art forms underscores NYSCA's broader strategic priorities in cultural development and community engagement.

The United Way of Southern Kentucky is seeking proposals for grants aimed at implementing community impact strategies in the areas of Education, Income, Health, and Safety Net, inviting tax-exempt, nonprofit organizations that align with these strategies to apply before the deadline on 09/30/2024.

This funding initiative provides financial support to Michigan-based nonprofits and higher education institutions that assist startups, aiming to boost innovation and economic development in the state.

The Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling Prize is a grant opportunity for creative individuals, entrepreneurs, and businesses to address challenges in the lithium-ion battery recycling supply chain. The goal of this phased prize competition is to develop and demonstrate processes that can capture 90% of all discarded or spent lithium-ion batteries in the United States for recovery of key materials. The continuation of the prize will award a total of $7.4 million in cash prizes and voucher support over the next 3 years. This includes a new competition track for new competitors and previous participants, as well as additional support for Phase III winning teams. Breakthrough, a new public contest, aims to incentivize innovative solutions from battery industry entrepreneurs that align with the prize goal. Up to $2.4 million in cash prizes and voucher funding will be awarded to up to 10 winners. Winners will also have the opportunity to advance to Phase IV of the competition. Qualified lithium-ion battery recyclers and second-life testing organizations are also being sought as Evaluation Entities for Phase IV. More information about becoming an Evaluation Entity can be found on the American-Made website.

The Classic Center Cultural Foundation's 2024 Community Grant program aims to support performing, visual, or culinary arts efforts and workforce development initiatives in Athens-Clarke County, specifically those aligning with the hospitality industry. This grant directly supports the Foundation's broader mission to provide resources that entertain and educate the local community and foster economic growth. The Foundation achieves this by supporting diverse arts programs and workforce development initiatives, while also maintaining The Classic Center as a state-of-the-art venue. The target beneficiaries for this grant include organizations and initiatives within Athens-Clarke County that are actively involved in the performing, visual, or culinary arts, or are developing workforce skills relevant to the hospitality sector. The primary impact goal is to enhance the cultural vibrancy and economic prosperity of the local community through arts and hospitality-related development. By investing in these areas, the Foundation seeks to create a more engaged and skilled community. The grant prioritizes projects that demonstrate a clear alignment with both arts and hospitality. This focus includes, but is not limited to, programs that offer educational opportunities, public performances, exhibitions, or culinary training that can lead to employment within the hospitality industry. The Foundation seeks proposals that will contribute to both community enrichment and economic stability. Expected outcomes include an increase in high-quality arts programming and a more skilled workforce in the hospitality sector within Athens-Clarke County. Measurable results could involve the number of participants in workforce development programs, attendance figures for events, or the number of impressions generated by supported projects. Grant funding is available up to $5,000, with proposals needing to clearly outline an itemized project budget and the amount requested, not exceeding this limit. The Classic Center Cultural Foundation's strategic priorities are rooted in a theory of change that posits by investing in arts and workforce development, especially within the hospitality industry, they can contribute to a thriving local economy and an enriched cultural landscape. The Foundation believes that supporting these initiatives directly leads to a more educated, entertained, and economically stable community, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life in Athens-Clarke County.

Grant opportunity: Job Creation and Business Incentive Program in California offers forgivable loans to prospective and existing business owners for job creation. Eligible businesses include new ventures or existing ones looking to expand their floor area by 50% or more. The grants can be used for interior/exterior improvements, purchase of business equipment, furniture, fixtures, and working capital.

The Travel Oregon City grant program invites applications from non-profit and for-profit organizations to fund public events that attract tourists, support local businesses, and enhance the community's tourism brand, with a focus on transparency, financial stability, visitor attendance estimation, vendor involvement, and annual application for funding.

This program provides funding to businesses and organizations looking to enter or expand in Maryland's offshore wind supply chain, with a focus on supporting emerging businesses owned by women, veterans, and minorities.