Grants for Small businesses - Business and Commerce

This funding opportunity provides financial support to underrepresented entrepreneurs in the U.S. who have shown business success, helping them to grow and improve their operations.

The BLOOM Grant Program, initiated in 2018 by the BLOOM Business Empowerment Center through the York County Economic Alliance (YCEA), aims to empower small businesses in York County. This initiative aligns with the YCEA's mission to foster economic growth and stability within the region by providing crucial financial support to businesses with tangible needs. The program's core objective is to help businesses improve productivity, expand services, or achieve the next level of growth, thereby contributing to the overall economic vitality of York County. Since its inception, the BLOOM Grant Program has demonstrated significant impact, distributing 235 grants totaling $480,000 to various small businesses and organizations. The program specifically targets small businesses in York County, including those in Downtown York and York County Trail Towns communities, with a particular focus on women-owned businesses, start-up entrepreneurs, and graduates of BLOOM classes. This broad reach reflects a commitment to inclusive economic development, ensuring that a diverse range of businesses can access vital resources for growth. Priority consideration for funding is given to businesses that have not previously received BLOOM grant funding, promoting equitable access and supporting a wider array of enterprises. The program also prioritizes businesses owned by Women, Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, and Veterans, aiming to address historical disparities and promote economic empowerment within these communities. Furthermore, businesses that commit to using local businesses for grant implementation are favored, reinforcing local economic cycles and fostering community collaboration. The program awards grants ranging from $500 to $1,500, with amounts determined by need and potential impact. These grants are intended to fund projects that demonstrably improve productivity, expand services, or facilitate business growth. Examples of previously funded projects include improving signage, physical improvements to business locations, marketing initiatives, training and certification for new services, and the purchase of new equipment. The expected outcome is a measurable increase in the operational efficiency, market reach, and overall growth of recipient businesses, contributing to job creation and sustained economic development within York County. This strategic approach reflects the YCEA's theory of change, which posits that targeted financial investment in small businesses, especially those in underrepresented groups, can lead to significant and sustainable regional economic benefits.

This grant provides financial support ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 to small businesses owned by minorities, women, and veterans in Boone, Campbell, and Kenton counties in Northern Kentucky, helping them with various business improvement expenses.

LIA Foundation Small Business Support Program The LIA Foundation, in partnership with the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce (LIAACC) and Long Island Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (LIHCC), is continuing to expand the Small Business Support Program by directly funding 25 businesses in Nassau County and 25 businesses in Suffolk County. These grants aim to provide financial resources to support growth, expansion, and contribute to the revitalization of downtown areas. Program Details: Grant Provider: LIA Foundation Funding Source: Generous grant from Optimum Business Grant Amount: $5,000 per selected business Application Deadline: May 1, 2024 Notification: Selected businesses will be notified in the summer of 2024 after review by a Selection Committee. Eligibility: Small businesses in Nassau County and Suffolk County No consideration of membership status with LIA, LIAACC, LIHCC, or Optimum Business in the evaluation process. Additional Information: Non-members of the Long Island Association will receive a six-month complimentary membership upon application submission. Optimum Business provides world-class Internet, phone, TV, security, and managed services with a commitment to small and mid-sized business success. Application Process: Submit applications by May 1, 2024. The Selection Committee will review applications. Successful applicants will receive notification in the summer of 2024. Note: Membership with LIA, LIAACC, LIHCC, or status as an Optimum Business customer will not influence the evaluation of applications.

The Goshen County Tourism Promotion Joint Powers Board [a.k.a. Goshen County Lodging Tax Board] is dedicated to enhancing travel and tourism across Goshen County. The board's initiatives focus on creating effective marketing strategies to promote the area as a travel destination. They have set aside approximately $321,000.00 for the Tourism Sponsorship Program, which grants funds to event organizers. These events are aimed at promoting local, regional, and national public relations efforts that bring both visitors and residents to Goshen County. Applicants need to demonstrate that their events can attract tourists and support the local tourism sector. The funding is reimbursed based on actual expenses reported after the event. Applications are due one the first Tuesday of January, April, July and October

This funding opportunity provides financial support to neighborhoods, community groups, and local businesses in Marysville, Washington, for projects aimed at beautifying their local areas.

The Innovate Alabama Supplemental Grant Program is designed to award funds to for-profit, Alabama-based companies that have received Federal Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) or Federal Small Business Technology Transfer Program (STTR) Phase I or Phase II awards. The program's mission aligns with fostering technological innovation, commercialization, and overall economic development within Alabama by supporting small businesses engaged in research and technology development. This initiative aims to bridge critical funding gaps, encourage the growth of high-quality companies, and create high-wage jobs across the state. The target beneficiaries are Alabama-based for-profit companies that have secured federal SBIR/STTR Phase I or Phase II awards. The primary impact goals include increasing the number and types of federal SBIR/STTR applications from Alabama, helping companies bridge the funding gap between Phase I and Phase II payments, and promoting the establishment and growth of businesses committed to Alabama's economic development, entrepreneurship, and innovation. The program prioritizes several key areas. It focuses on increasing commercial success for Alabama SBIR/STTR projects and establishing high-wage jobs in both moderately and highly skilled occupations. Funding is structured with caps: for Phase I awards, Innovate Alabama may grant up to 50% of the federal award or $100,000, whichever is less. For Phase II awards, the supplemental grant can be up to 50% of the federal award or $250,000, whichever is less. Expected outcomes and measurable results include a higher volume of SBIR/STTR applications from Alabama, a stronger pipeline of innovative companies transitioning from Phase I to Phase II, and a measurable increase in commercialized technologies and job creation within the state. The grant funds can be used for highly skilled new hires, business plan development, product testing, market research, intellectual property protection, and technical work, all contributing to the growth and sustainability of these businesses. Eligibility requirements dictate that applicants must meet all federal SBIR/STTR program requirements at the time of application. Additionally, within 12 months of receiving the grant, the applicant must have its primary place of business in Alabama, the majority of its top executives must reside in Alabama, and at least a majority of its employees must live in Alabama. Participation in the E-Verify program is also mandatory. The program is open to applicants whose federal Phase I or Phase II funding was active on or after July 1, 2023. This framework reflects Innovate Alabama's strategic priority of nurturing a robust innovation ecosystem and supporting a theory of change where targeted supplemental funding accelerates the growth and commercialization potential of promising Alabama-based businesses, leading to broader economic benefits.

The District of Columbia Child and Family Services Agency (CFSA) invites applications for funding to support community-based organizations in implementing place-based initiatives. The overarching goal is to improve the well-being and stability of families through community-driven efforts. This aligns with a mission to empower local communities by providing resources and services that directly address their specific needs and strengths, fostering self-sufficiency and improved family outcomes. The grant program aims to establish and support Family Success Centers, which will serve as accessible hubs for neighbors to utilize computers, access various resources and services, and participate in classes and trainings. Each center is designed to be unique, reflecting the specific strengths and goals of its community, ensuring that the support provided is relevant and impactful. This model focuses on localized solutions, recognizing that effective family support is best achieved when tailored to the community it serves. Target beneficiaries for these initiatives are families within the District of Columbia, with a particular focus on those who can benefit from enhanced access to resources and services that improve well-being and stability. The impact goals include fostering stronger, more resilient families and communities by addressing multiple aspects of family life. This approach seeks to create a network of support that is easily accessible and responsive to the evolving needs of residents. The program prioritizes non-profit, community-based organizations that can demonstrate their ability to meet identified needs and commit to implementing program measures over the grant period. Eligible organizations include non-profit, private, public, and faith-based entities. Partnerships between organizations are encouraged to facilitate comprehensive service delivery. Expected outcomes include increased access to vital resources, improved family well-being, enhanced community stability, and the development of sustainable, community-led initiatives. Measurable results will likely include metrics related to service utilization, program participation, and indicators of family and community stability and well-being. Funding information indicates that eligible organizations can receive up to $325,000 in the 12-month base year, with the potential for an additional $325,000 per year for up to four option years, for a maximum grant duration of five years. This sustained funding is intended to support the long-term implementation and impact of these place-based family support initiatives. The strategic priority is to invest in local organizations that are deeply embedded within the communities they serve, thereby leveraging existing community strengths and relationships to achieve lasting positive change.

The Office of Native American Affairs (ONAA) mission is to ensure that American Indian, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians (referred to collectively as Native American) seeking to create, develop and expand small businesses have full access to the business development and expansion tools available through the Agency’s entrepreneurial development, lending and procurement programs. ONAA’s overarching goal is to promote and support American Indians, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiian entrepreneurs. In recent years, ONAA has successfully sponsored and managed nation- wide contractor-led workshops and roundtables, co-sponsored agreements, interagency agreements, and tribal consultations; developed and distributed promotional materials; and attended and participated in national and regional economic development conferences as subject matter experts for these groups. The focus of this pilot program initiative is to award a grant to a Native American serving business to carry out projects that support developing exports by eligible Native small businesses. The objective of NATEP is to increase (1) the number of Native small businesses that export, (2) the dollar value of exports, and (3) the number of Native small businesses exploring significant new trade opportunities. Such empowerment will serve to maximize economic impact and improve quality of life for the targeted underserved communities. Section 7(j) of the Small Business Act authorizes the U.S. Small Business Administration to provide management and technical assistance to eligible individuals and businesses. To be eligible for 7(j) services, a client must be: a socially and economically disadvantaged individual whose firm is a participant in the 8(a) Business Development Program; a business that is eligible to receive 8(a) contracts; or a business which qualifies as small under 13 CFR subpart 121 – Small Business size Regulations, and which is located in an urban or rural area with a high proportion of unemployed or low-income individuals, or which is owned by low-income individuals. The term “high proportion of unemployed” means the urban or rural county’s unemployment rate is not less than 140 percent of average unemployment rate for the United States or for the State in which such county is located, whichever is less, based on the most recent data available in the annual Local Area Unemployment Statistics report from the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics. The term “low- income individual” means an individual whose family’s taxable income for the preceding year did not exceed 150 percent of the poverty level amount established by the Bureau of Census, U.S. Department of Commerce, for determining poverty status.

The program offers assistance to targeted economic driver industries culminating over time in the development, diversification, competitiveness and growth in sectors that provide sustained high quality jobs, continued innovation and increase in GDP in Wisconsin. Applicants must be actively engaged in distinct industry or sector development or engaged in efforts to enhance cross-industry competitiveness, such as workforce development, market development, new investments, business attraction and acquisition of specialized competitive assets or facilities. These investments are generally intended to support strategic industry initiatives and investments, develop shared-use infrastructure, help fund industry-related pilot projects, expand successful initiatives, increase geographic reach or allow for expansion of consortia efforts.

The PeopleFund's BIPOC Small Business Accelerator is a program designed to empower underserved entrepreneurs in Texas. It provides capital, education, and resources to foster healthy business growth among its participants. PeopleFund's mission is aligned with this program by directly addressing the financial and educational gaps faced by BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) business owners, a critical component of economic equity and community development. The program emphasizes practical support through a structured curriculum and ongoing mentorship. The program targets BIPOC entrepreneurs located in Texas, specifically those who are in low to moderate-income areas, or whose individual address or household income falls within these classifications. It is open to both start-up and existing businesses that demonstrate the ability to support a loan payment through available global cash flow and meet PeopleFund's credit and lending qualifications. This focus ensures that the program reaches individuals and businesses most in need of support to overcome systemic barriers to business success. Key priorities of the accelerator include providing access to business planning software like LivePlan, an online curriculum, and expedited loan packaging and application support. Participants commit to an orientation, virtual training sessions, and assigned "homework," demonstrating a dedication to their business development. The program also prioritizes ongoing after-care through dedicated business coaching and mentorship, recognizing that sustained support is crucial for long-term growth and success. Expected outcomes and measurable results include participants qualifying for a PeopleFund loan product, completion of a business plan, financial statements, and a capital portfolio. They are also expected to gain access to business and professional resources, tools and technology, and networking opportunities within their cohort. The program aims to increase the number of successful BIPOC-owned businesses in Texas, thereby contributing to local economic growth and reducing wealth disparities. The grant amount ranges from $3,000 to a maximum of $5,000. The program's strategic priorities are centered on fostering self-sufficiency and sustainable growth for BIPOC entrepreneurs. PeopleFund's theory of change posits that by providing targeted capital, comprehensive education, and continuous mentorship, they can equip underserved business owners with the essential tools and knowledge to not only start but also significantly scale their businesses. This approach is designed to create a ripple effect, leading to job creation, increased local economic activity, and enhanced community resilience.

The Regional Development Corporation Tribal Economic Diversity Fund offers grants to businesses owned by federally recognized Indian tribes or their enrolled members. The program aims to provide critical technical services and equipment to these businesses, supporting economic diversification and growth within Northern New Mexico. The fund aligns with the broader mission of sustaining and assisting developing businesses, thereby creating jobs and diversifying the region's economy. The target beneficiaries are business enterprises owned by federally recognized Indian tribes, or at least 51% owned by enrolled members of specific Pueblos (Cochiti, Jemez, Nambe, Ohkay, Picuris, Pojoaque, San Ildefonso, Santa Clara, Taos, or Tesuque). These businesses must be headquartered in Los Alamos, Mora, Rio Arriba, San Miguel, Northern Sandoval, Santa Fe, or Taos County, have a business-only bank account, and have been in operation for at least six months. The impact goals include diversifying revenue, leveraging other investments, creating new jobs, and implementing systems that lead to business growth. The grant prioritizes competitive awards for services that achieve these diversification and growth objectives. Funds can be used for procuring business equipment and tools, advertising and marketing costs, consulting services, and specialized software. Preference is given to first-time applicants and those previously unawarded, indicating a focus on broadening access and supporting new and developing tribal businesses. Expected outcomes include the establishment of new jobs, increased revenue streams for tribal businesses, and the implementation of strategic systems that contribute to long-term economic stability and expansion. Measurable results would likely be tracked through job creation figures, revenue diversification indicators, and the successful acquisition and utilization of funded equipment or services. The program's strategic priority is to strengthen the economic landscape of Northern New Mexico by empowering tribal businesses. The foundation's theory of change posits that by providing targeted financial support for essential services and equipment, tribal businesses will be better equipped to diversify their revenue, expand their operations, and ultimately contribute to job creation and economic resilience in the region. This investment in tribal enterprises is seen as a key driver for sustainable economic development and a more diverse regional economy. The funding ceiling is up to $8,000, with grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000.

This program provides matching funds to Illinois-based businesses and organizations to help them secure federal grants for projects that promote economic growth, reduce equity gaps, and advance clean energy initiatives.

This program provides financial support to small, for-profit businesses in Atlantic City that have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, helping them cover essential operational costs and promote economic recovery.

The City of Chicago Department of Planning & Development (DPD) offers grant funding to support local commercial, mixed-use, and light manufacturing projects. This initiative aligns with the city's broader mission to strengthen local business corridors and enhance neighborhood vitality, particularly through the Chicago Recovery Plan. The program aims to invest in catalytic developments that build upon DPD's existing investments, supporting a resilient and thriving urban environment. The target beneficiaries for this grant program include community developers, business owners, entrepreneurs, and property owners within Chicago. While applicants from all areas of Chicago are eligible, priority is given to projects located in historically disinvested areas or those with limited private investment. The impact goals are to foster economic growth, enhance community safety initiatives, and leverage local talents, capacities, and institutions to contribute to neighborhood strength. The program prioritizes capital improvement projects, including pre-development, construction, or renovation costs. Mixed-use projects are eligible, though residential-only developments are not. A key focus is on catalytic projects that demonstrate a strong local impact and have clear momentum, with an expectation to break ground within six months of grant acceptance. Site control is preferred but not strictly required. Expected outcomes include the successful completion of vital community projects, increased economic activity in targeted areas, and the creation of more vibrant and resilient neighborhoods. Measurable results would involve the number of projects funded, the scale of investment leveraged, and the tangible improvements in business corridors and community infrastructure. The city's strategic priority is to address historical disinvestment and ensure equitable development across Chicago, utilizing funding sources such as the Chicago Recovery Plan Community Development (Large Grants), Neighborhood Opportunity Fund (Large Grants), and Tax Increment Financing to achieve these goals.

The Mini-Grants for Community Impact, offered by the United Way of the Golden Triangle Region, aim to strengthen local initiatives within Choctaw, Lowndes, Noxubee, Oktibbeha, Webster, and Winston Counties in Mississippi. This grant program aligns with the United Way's mission to address human needs through united community efforts, including human services planning, community-wide fundraising, and citizen-reviewed fund allocation. The grants are designed to foster a clear understanding and mutual acceptance of roles between the United Way and participating organizations, ensuring a collaborative approach to meeting the human needs of the specified counties. The target beneficiaries for these grants are registered 501(c)3 non-profits, organizations, businesses, programs, or community groups actively working in the designated regions. The overarching impact goal is to advance key areas such as Education, Health, Financial Stability, Children/Family well-being, and Disaster relief. By supporting these entities, the program seeks to improve the quality of life for residents across these six Mississippi counties. The program prioritizes initiatives that directly fulfill a specific community need within the identified impact areas. While the grant size is stated as $1,000 to $10,000 in one section, the funding information later specifies an awarded amount ranging from $500 to $1,500, with a maximum of $1,500 per entity. This suggests a focus on smaller, targeted interventions. Crucially, funds cannot be allocated towards salaries, reimbursements, matching funds, capital campaigns, operational expenses, consulting fees, or lobbying, ensuring that resources are directed exclusively to direct program implementation and community benefit. Expected outcomes include tangible improvements in education, health, financial stability, family support, and disaster preparedness or recovery within the target counties. While specific measurable results are not detailed, the emphasis on fulfilling "a specific community need" implies that successful applicants will demonstrate how their projects contribute to these broader goals. The United Way of the Golden Triangle Region's strategic priority is to address human needs effectively and efficiently, and their theory of change relies on the collective efforts of various community segments to achieve lasting positive change.

Supports Goshen County businesses in making structural enhancements or expansions such as new construction or renovations, aimed at increasing economic activity and market expansion. Excludes roofing and HVAC projects. Applicants must demonstrate the economic development merit of the project through detailed applications and multiple bids, with a preference for local contractors. Deadlines: Applications due first Friday of November, February, May, August

Herkimer County CARES Grant Program in New York is open to registered NYS for-profit legal business entities located within Herkimer County. Eligible activities include supporting businesses in manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, agriculture, high technology, research and development, and traditional and innovative small business endeavors. Technical assistance will be provided through the Mohawk Valley Small Business Development Center at no cost to the applicant. The grant aims to create or retain at least one new full-time equivalent job for low-to-moderate income individuals and allows reimbursement of eligible costs dating back to March 2020. Grant funds can be used for marketing adaption, community safety improvements, workforce development, safety enhancements to facilities, efficiency improvements, and air quality improvements. Previous funding received through COVID-19 reimbursement programs is allowed but cannot be duplicated through this program.

The City of Twentynine Palms is launching its 2024-2025 Community Event Grant program, aiming to support events that celebrate the city's unique character, diversity, and history, while fostering community engagement and showcasing its vibrant culture. This program aligns with the city's mission to enhance the quality of life for its citizens by promoting a lively cultural scene and bringing people together through public events. The target beneficiaries are primarily the citizens of Twentynine Palms, with a focus on enhancing their quality of life. The impact goals include increasing community engagement, celebrating local culture and history, and providing accessible public events. Events should not be exclusive or celebrate small groups, but rather be open and beneficial to the broader community. The program prioritizes events that showcase Twentynine Palms’ character, diversity, or history. There is a strong focus on inclusivity, with a requirement for events to be held at ADA-accessible venues. While residency is not mandatory for applicants, events must occur within the city limits. Free attendance is encouraged, ensuring broad public access. Expected outcomes include a more vibrant community, increased civic pride, and a wider array of cultural and historical celebrations. Measurable results could include the number of events supported, attendance figures, and feedback from community members on the quality and impact of the events. The funding structure, providing 75% upfront and 25% upon completion, ensures accountability and successful execution of the proposed activities.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to businesses and nonprofit organizations in Hennepin County, Minnesota, to implement projects that prevent waste and promote the use of reusable materials.