Grants for Nonprofits - Business and Commerce

FY2025 Weather Program Office Research Programs Announcement - Testbeds aims to fund projects that advance applied weather research and improve forecasting tools for severe weather hazards by collaborating with NOAA's testbeds to ensure practical application in real-world forecasting operations.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to Manufacturing Extension Partnership Centers to help small- and medium-sized manufacturers recover and improve resilience after major disasters.

Aitkin County has been awarded a grant from the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). The Aitkin County Board of Commissioners, have approved this grant funding to be used to directly impact the Community of Aitkin County by establishing the Aitkin County Childcare Acceleration Grant Program. The purpose of this grant fund is to help support community members who aspire start their career in childcare and become childcare providers in Aitkin County in an effort to drive economic growth.  The funding will help support fees associated with new licensing and training needed to open a childcare center or at home facility, general remodeling costs to meet licensing standards and/or funding support to add additional employees to new and existing childcare businesses.

The American-Made Electronics Scrap Recycling Advancement Prize (E-SCRAP) is a $3.95 million challenge sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Technologies Office (AMMTO). This three-phase prize aims to stimulate innovative approaches that reduce the costs and environmental impact of critical material recovery from electronic scrap (e-scrap). The program aligns with the DOE's mission to advance energy technology and reduce environmental impact, specifically targeting the challenges within the e-scrap recycling value chain. The target beneficiaries of the E-SCRAP prize are individuals, private entities (for-profits and nonprofits), nonfederal government entities (states, counties, tribes, and municipalities), and academic institutions working in waste collection and management, dismantling and sorting, separation, refining, validation, and material supply. The impact goals are to increase the domestic supply of critical materials from e-scrap, enhance material circularity, and reduce the environmental footprint associated with current recycling processes. The program prioritizes innovative approaches, processes, or technologies that optimize and implement critical material separation and recovery from e-scrap. This includes building partnerships across the recycling value chain, developing and demonstrating innovations, addressing technical, supply chain, or logistical hurdles, and enhancing supply chains to accelerate connectivity between various stages of recycling. Areas of interest include innovations for electronic scrap (communication devices, home appliances, medical/office equipment) and the recovery of critical materials such as aluminum, cobalt, copper, lithium, nickel, and rare earth elements. Expected outcomes include the development and demonstration of new technologies that lead to more efficient and environmentally friendly e-scrap recycling processes. Measurable results will be seen in increased rates of critical material recovery, reduced costs, and a decrease in environmental impact. Competitor teams can win up to $800,000 in cash prizes and $150,000 in national laboratory analysis support. The prize’s strategic priorities are to act as a catalyst for change, fostering innovation and collaboration to strengthen the domestic supply chain of critical materials, thereby contributing to clean energy initiatives and a more circular economy.

The Fayette County Tourism Grant Program, administered by GO Laurel Highlands, offers grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 to nonprofit or for-profit businesses in the tourism and hospitality industry in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, for marketing, tourism enhancement, operational expenses, and visitor center operations, with the aim of boosting tourism and economic activity in the region.

The 2025 Rec for All Programming Grant, administered by the DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), seeks to support community-based organizations in delivering inclusive and accessible recreational opportunities for youth in the District of Columbia. This initiative aligns with Mayor Bowser's goals of fostering physical, social, and emotional wellness while promoting skill development and community engagement. Applications must be submitted electronically through the Grants Management System by January 8, 2025, at 4:00 PM EST, and late or incomplete submissions will not be accepted. The program provides funding of up to $100,000 per award to support the launch or expansion of structured recreational programs. Eligible categories include Cultural Arts (e.g., mural development, theater, and drama therapy), Youth Development (e.g., leadership development and STEM/STEAM education), Environmental Initiatives (e.g., gardening and nutrition), Sports/Athletics (e.g., fitness and e-sports), and Therapeutic Recreation. Programs must deliver at least 120 hours of structured services over a minimum of six weeks to youth aged 6–18. Applicants must demonstrate their capacity to provide high-quality programming and align their proposals with DPR’s core values of equity, inclusion, empowerment, community, sustainability, and innovation. Proposals must include a detailed program narrative, participant recruitment strategies, an itemized budget, and proof of the program’s location and accessibility. Grantees are required to comply with reporting, monitoring, and branding requirements set by DPR, including regular updates and data collection. Applications will be evaluated by a review panel based on scoring criteria, including organizational and participant profiles, program description, and budget justification. The total funding pool for FY25 is $2 million, with multiple awards anticipated. Notifications of award decisions will be issued after a thorough review process, and grantees must meet compliance requirements, including background checks and site inspections, before program launch. Organizations interested in applying are encouraged to attend the pre-application meeting on December 17, 2024, at 11:00 AM at DPR Headquarters. For additional information or assistance, contact LaShaun N. Basil at Lashaun.basil@dc.gov. Detailed requirements and application materials are available on the DPR Grants webpage.

The Ben Serafin Fund, established under the Oregon Community Foundation in 2007, honors the legacy of Ben Serafin—a notable community leader and founder of the Fall Creek Ranch Foundation. Residing in Glide, Douglas County, this fund annually allocates approximately $50,000 for competitive grants specifically aimed at supporting local service districts and nonprofits within Douglas County, with a preferential focus on organizations based in and serving the Glide community. The fund facilitates grant sizes ranging from $2,000 to $15,000, with possibilities for larger awards. The annual application window spans from June 1 to July 15, emphasizing projects that do not request multiyear funding. Additionally, the fund offers scholarships prioritizing graduates from Glide High School, extending financial support over four years with annual application requirements. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual opening/closing deadline: June 1st to July 15th

This funding opportunity supports community organizations in Washington, D.C. to implement innovative strategies that reduce gun violence and enhance safety in specific neighborhoods through intervention, mentorship, and collaboration.

The City of Takoma Park’s Community Quality of Life Grants Program aims to enhance the well-being of its residents by supporting programs, projects, and events that increase access and opportunities in the arts and sciences. This initiative aligns with a broader mission to foster community engagement and enrichment, ensuring that residents have avenues to participate in and benefit from cultural and educational activities. The program seeks to create a vibrant community where residents can thrive through diverse experiences in the arts and sciences. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are residents of the City of Takoma Park, with specific requirements ensuring that at least 75% of participants are city residents and at least 51% are from low-to-moderate income households (defined as 80% of the Area Median Income). The impact goals are centered on improving the quality of life by expanding access and participation in the arts and sciences, particularly for those who may face economic barriers. This focus on inclusive access aims to bridge gaps in opportunity and ensure that a broad segment of the community can benefit from these enriching experiences. The program prioritizes projects falling into one of three categories: Arts and Humanities (A&H), Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM), and Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM). This broad focus allows for a diverse range of initiatives that can contribute to the program's overall goals. The emphasis on these specific areas reflects a strategic approach to community development, recognizing the importance of both creative and scientific literacy in fostering a well-rounded and engaged populace. Expected outcomes include increased participation of Takoma Park residents, especially those from low-to-moderate income households, in arts and science programs. Measurable results will likely involve tracking participant numbers, demographic information, and the successful completion of funded projects between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025. The program operates under a theory of change that by providing financial support to local organizations offering such programs, the City can directly influence and improve the quality of life for its residents, fostering a more equitable and culturally rich community.

The GO Laurel Highlands is offering a tourism grant ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 for marketing, enhancement of attractions, and special events aimed at increasing visitation and economic activity in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, with applications to be submitted by October 4, 2024.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to local governments and nonprofit organizations for projects that improve tourism facilities and enhance visitor experiences in Tillamook County.

City of New Bedford Enhanced Facade Improvement Program in Massachusetts offers a Facade Grant to owners and tenants of commercial properties to enhance or restore the original character of their buildings. The program aims to facilitate commercial revitalization, stimulate private investment, preserve and beautify New Bedford’s Commercial Districts, and create a pleasant walking environment. The objective is to assist in substantially beautifying the entire facade or elevation of a commercial building while promoting retail activities, encouraging neighborhood character and architectural design, and using quality materials with good design concepts. Applications prepared by tenants must be signed and submitted by the building owner.

FY2025 National Aquaculture Initiative: Strengthening U.S. Coastal, Marine, and Great Lakes Aquaculture Through Business Support aims to enhance the development and efficiency of U.S. aquaculture businesses by funding projects that address critical business needs and promote partnerships between researchers, industry stakeholders, and Sea Grant extension personnel.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to legal clinics and law firms that offer essential legal and social work services to low-income families in the District of Columbia at risk of child welfare intervention.

The "Microloan Program National Training Conference" grant is a funding opportunity by the U.S. Small Business Administration for experienced microlending or nonprofit organizations to organize a national training conference for Microloan Program Intermediaries, aimed at enhancing their skills to operate SBA microloan programs effectively, with a total award of up to $499,000 covering logistical expenses for a one-year project period.

This grant provides funding to organizations that support women entrepreneurs in Cameroon, helping them improve their businesses and access U.S. export markets through training and resources.

This program provides financial assistance to homeowners in Dearborn for the rehabilitation, repair, or replacement of damaged porches and outdoor steps.

This initiative provides financial and technical support to small businesses in Detroit that have been operating for 30 years or more, recognizing their cultural and economic contributions to the community.

This program provides funding for technology developers and industrial facilities to collaboratively test and validate innovative energy-efficient technologies in real-world industrial settings, enhancing their performance and adoption.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to municipalities, public agencies, and nonprofit organizations in Lincoln County for projects that promote community and economic development, particularly those that create jobs and have measurable local impact.