Business and Commerce Grants

Community Grant of up to $5,000, thanks to a partnership between Pioneer Connect and The Foundation for Rural Service. ELIGIBLE CATEGORIES Business and Economic Development Community Development Education Telecommunications applications GRANT VALUE We are accepting grant requests from $250 to $5,000. Ten percent of the total grant award comes from Pioneer Connect, which will be your sponsor when applying. APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS Grant proposals must be submitted using the format provided. Do not submit application in the form of a dissertation. Follow the outline as questions are asked. Not following the guidelines or incomplete proposals will not be considered. APPLICATION DEADLINE IS AUGUST 31, 2024 Awards are made at the end of the year, normally around Thanksgiving. To apply, submit your application materials below or email to marketing@pioneerconnect.net.

We are so excited to be offering the Applefest Business Grant again this year! There are some amazing opportunities for businesses to capitalize on funding for those projects that can boost your business! This is a first come first serve grant program. All applications are reviewed by a committee and grant workshops will be held to assist those who need help filling out the application or who have questions about qualifying purchases. All grants are due by noon on Friday, November 1. Late applications will not be accepted. Since this is a rolling grant, once the funding had been dispensed, the grant program will close; even if it is before November 1.

The Orange County Enhanced Mobility for Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities (EMSD) Program is a locally funded initiative designed to support local agencies in delivering activities similar to those eligible under FTA 5310 federal programs. This program maintains all the beneficial elements of its federal counterpart, but utilizes local funding. Its core mission aligns with addressing the critical transportation needs of older adults and people with disabilities, particularly when existing services are unavailable, insufficient, or inappropriate. The program aims to ensure that these vulnerable populations have reliable access to transportation, thereby enhancing their overall mobility and quality of life within Orange County. The primary target beneficiaries of the EMSD Program are older adults and people with disabilities in Orange County. The program's impact goals are centered on improving mobility for these individuals, supporting local agencies and non-profits that provide services within their communities, and supplementing existing transportation services like the OCTA Senior Mobility Program, OC ACCESS, and OC Bus fixed-route service. A significant focus is also placed on providing seamless service through improved first- and last-mile connections, recognizing that initial and final legs of a journey can often be the most challenging for individuals with mobility limitations. The EMSD Program prioritizes several key areas to achieve its objectives. It encourages the incorporation of technology-based solutions to create more efficient and accessible mobility options. Furthermore, it emphasizes promoting outreach efforts by non-profit and public agencies to senior and disabled patrons, with a particular focus on reaching disadvantaged, underrepresented, and diverse communities to ensure their specific needs are met. Funding is also prioritized for agencies that demonstrate collaboration through partnerships, aiming to create efficiencies and lower operating costs, and for those that commit to increasing vehicle revenue hours beyond a minimum of ten hours per week, ensuring greater service availability. Expected outcomes and measurable results include an overall improvement in the mobility for seniors and individuals with disabilities across Orange County. This will be achieved through increased access to transportation services, enhanced first- and last-mile connections, and the adoption of innovative technology-based solutions. The program also anticipates a strengthened network of local agencies and non-profits providing these essential services, leading to more comprehensive and effective support for the target populations. The availability of $8.5 million in funding, with a total maximum request of $1.5 million per applicant across various capital and operating categories, is a measurable commitment to achieving these impactful results.

The Rise Prize is an initiative created by Imaginable Futures (a venture of The Omidyar Group) and Lumina Foundation, in collaboration with leading partner organizations. Its core mission aligns with the foundations' goals of fostering economic mobility and well-being, specifically by leveraging direct investments in innovative solutions that support student parents. This program seeks to accelerate the postsecondary success of student parents, recognizing the critical role education plays in their economic advancement and overall well-being. The primary beneficiaries of the Rise Prize are student parents in the US, across all states and counties. The program targets impact-driven changemakers, including non-profit organizations, for-profit companies (such as edtech solutions), and higher education institutions (including departments, teams, academic institution associations, or alternative career pathways programs like workforce programs, credentialing programs, and bootcamps). The overarching impact goal is to increase the number of innovative solutions that directly drive postsecondary success for this demographic, ultimately leading to greater economic mobility and improved well-being. The Rise Prize prioritizes solutions that will have a direct impact on the postsecondary success of student parents. This includes a wide array of solution types, such as flexible courseware, original outcomes-based financing solutions, innovative childcare support models, community building, and completion coaching. The program also highlights key areas of focus like Childcare, Community of Support, Completion Time, Convenience First, Cost, and Credential/Connection to Career. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate how their solutions address these critical areas to accelerate student parent success. The program is structured to achieve several expected outcomes, measured through a three-tiered award system. Early stage applicants, those with new ideas anchored in initial customer validation, are eligible for $50,000 awards, with 8 winners expected. The "Risers’ Choice" awardee receives $100,000. Mature stage applicants, defined by organizations with strong conviction and demonstrated product/market fit, are eligible for $200,000 awards, with 5 winners anticipated. In total, 14 awards totaling $1.5M will be distributed. Beyond direct funding, the program also aims to raise awareness of solutions, provide exposure to funders and partners, strengthen ideas through mentorship, foster community among innovators, and offer advisory support for product pitches to finalists.

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (CAH) is offering a grant program to support the development and public presentation of visual art exhibitions. This initiative aligns with CAH's mission to foster artistic and cultural development within the District of Columbia by providing opportunities for local artists and curators. The grant aims to enhance the cultural landscape of D.C. through innovative and educational art exhibitions, utilizing CAH's exhibition space and virtual platforms. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant are District resident curators and nonprofit organizations with curatorial capacity. The program seeks to empower these individuals and groups to develop and present compelling visual art exhibitions. The impact goals include providing opportunities for D.C. resident curators to showcase new works or bring existing exhibitions from other cities to the District, thereby enriching the cultural experiences available to local residents. The program prioritizes fostering innovative and educational art exhibitions. Key focus areas include supporting the presentation of visual art in a government facility and offering unique exhibitions and related programs for District residents. Expected outcomes include an increase in the number and diversity of art exhibitions available in D.C., greater visibility for local curators and artists, and enhanced engagement of District residents with the arts. Funding for individuals and new nonprofit organizations in FY25 can be up to $30,000, or $35,000 if working with a co-curator or curatorial mentee, with a grant period from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025. Eligibility criteria for individuals include being an artist, curator, or arts-related professional over 18 with prior curatorial experience, maintaining D.C. residency, and being in good standing with CAH. Nonprofit organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified, have a principal business office in D.C., be registered to do business in the District, ensure at least 51% of activities occur in D.C., and obtain Citywide Clean Hands certification. Colleges, universities, service organizations, foreign governments, and other DC/Federal Government agencies are ineligible.

This grant provides financial support to organizations in East Tennessee that are working on projects to boost economic development, create jobs, and improve community prosperity.

This program provides funding to support projects that promote business retention, expansion, and attraction by marketing the state as an investment destination and highlighting regional assets.

This program provides financial assistance and support to new small businesses in Santa Ana, helping them thrive during their first three years of operation.

This grant supports the purchase of new, more efficient equipment to enhance business operations in Goshen County. It focuses on helping businesses become more productive and competitive by upgrading their operational tools. Technology upgrades and deferred maintenance are not eligible. Applicants must seek multiple bids, preferably from local contractors. Deadlines: Applications due first Friday of November, February, May, August

The Washington State Department of Commerce (WSDC) is offering its 2025 Religious and Nonprofit Security Grant, designed to enhance the physical security of nonprofit organizations across all counties in Washington. This grant aligns with the WSDC's mission to support and protect vulnerable community institutions by providing funding for renovations and other security investments. The program's strategic priority is to safeguard organizations that are at risk of physical attacks, threats, or damages due to their mission, ideology, or beliefs, thereby fostering a more secure environment for these groups to operate. The target beneficiaries for this grant include a broad range of nonprofit organizations, with a specific emphasis on religious nonprofits, "by-and-for" organizations, and cultural community centers. The impact goal is to mitigate security risks and improve the safety of these sites. Successful applicants will demonstrate a clear need for security enhancements based on past incidents or credible threats. This proactive approach aims to prevent future attacks and ensure the continuity of services provided by these vital community organizations. The grant prioritizes investments in physical security enhancements, construction or renovation projects, target hardening, preparedness planning, training, and exercises. Applications must explicitly detail how the funding will be utilized for these purposes. A key focus is on tangible improvements that directly address identified security vulnerabilities. Organizations must either own the property or have written permission from the owner to implement the proposed security upgrades, ensuring the long-term impact and sustainability of the investments. The expected outcomes of the grant program include a measurable reduction in security incidents and an increased sense of safety among the beneficiary organizations. By funding critical security measures, the WSDC aims to empower these nonprofits to continue their valuable work without undue fear of harm. The grant's theory of change posits that by investing in physical security and preparedness, organizations will be better equipped to withstand and deter threats, leading to a more resilient and secure nonprofit sector within Washington State.

This grant provides funding to Goshen County businesses to enhance their workforce training initiatives. It aims to complement potential funding from Wyoming Workforce Development, addressing the increasingly competitive nature of workforce development funds. The grant supports the creation of training programs that improve skills and capabilities, thereby boosting job creation and economic prosperity within the county. Deadlines: Applications due first Friday of November, February, May, August

This grant caters to unique and innovative projects that do not fit the conventional frameworks of the other sub-grants but still demonstrate significant economic development merit. Eligible projects may include feasibility studies, engineered drawings, architecture plans, and planning studies. These projects should aim to significantly impact the economic landscape of Goshen County. Deadlines: Applications due first Friday of November, February, May, August

The FY 2024 Multicultural Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) is a grant initiative by the Executive Office of Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Mayor’s Office on Latino Affairs (MOLA). This program seeks applications from qualified Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) serving the District of Columbia’s Latino Youth community. The core mission of this grant is to provide meaningful and structured summer experiences and career readiness opportunities for District of Columbia youth aged 14-24, aligning with MOLA’s commitment to empowering the Latino community through impactful programs. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are Latino youth residents in the District of Columbia, specifically those between the ages of 14 and 24. The impact goal is to foster career readiness and provide valuable summer experiences that contribute to their overall development and future success. The program aims to achieve significant, lasting change by engaging youth in activities that enhance their well-being and prepare them for future opportunities. The grant prioritizes six key areas: Downtown Comeback, Public Safety, Recreation & All Students on Pathways to Success, Workforce Development, Highlight East of the River, and More Democracy. These priorities reflect the broader strategic goals of the District of Columbia, focusing on urban revitalization, violence reduction, comprehensive youth development, economic empowerment, equitable investment in underserved communities, and civic engagement. Organizations applying for the grant must demonstrate how their proposed services align with at least one of these critical areas. Expected outcomes include increased participation of Latino youth in structured summer programs, enhanced career readiness skills, and improved engagement in community-based initiatives aligned with the funding priorities. The grant's duration is less than one year, with a project period from June 17, 2024, to August 23, 2024. Eligible organizations can receive up to $15,000, which is intended to facilitate the provision of direct services and programming within the District of Columbia. MOLA's theory of change is rooted in the belief that investing in youth, particularly through structured employment and development programs, leads to stronger individuals and more vibrant communities. To be eligible, CBOs must have a Federal 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, be licensed in the District of Columbia, have their principal place of business in the District, and provide direct services to District residents. Additionally, applicants must be in good standing with the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) and the Office of Tax and Revenue (OTR), and current grantees must be current on MOAA reporting obligations and reflect substantial progress towards their grant agreement goals. This rigorous eligibility ensures that funds are directed to reputable organizations capable of delivering impactful programs.

This grant aims to assist businesses in Goshen County to diversify and enhance their online presence, a critical factor due to the growing importance of e-commerce post-COVID-19. Funding covers website creation, e-commerce platform set-up, app creation, POS system upgrades necessary for e-commerce integration, and other related online business development tools. Projects require multiple bids and give preference to local contractors. Deadlines: Applications due first Friday of November, February, May, August

The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) provides the Main Street Improvement Program (MIP) Grant, designed to bolster community revitalization and economic development in Maryland's designated and affiliate Main Street communities, as well as Baltimore City's designated Main Street neighborhoods. This program aligns with the DHCD's broader mission of fostering sustainable communities throughout the state by building local capacity and supporting initiatives that contribute to economic growth and community well-being. The grants aim to empower these communities to achieve their strategic goals, as outlined in their annual work plans, directly contributing to the transformation strategies of these areas. The target beneficiaries of the MIP Grant are the 34 designated and 9 affiliate Main Street Maryland communities, along with 8 Baltimore City's designated Main Street neighborhoods. The impact goals are centered on improving business districts, supporting local businesses, and enhancing the overall vitality of these communities. By providing financial assistance, the program seeks to facilitate a range of activities that will lead to tangible improvements and sustainable growth within these designated areas. The foundation's strategic priorities are evident in its focus on supporting established Main Street programs, recognizing their proven framework for community development. The program prioritizes activities that have been identified in the applicant's work plans as key to their Main Street efforts. Eligible activities are broad and include staff and consultant services, general operating expenses, market and business recruitment strategies, street furniture, advertising, and façade improvements. This flexibility ensures that communities can address their unique needs and challenges. The grants are intended to directly support the goals and outcomes of annual work plans and contribute to the community's transformation strategy. All projects and activities funded are expected to be completed within one year, encouraging timely and efficient implementation. Expected outcomes include enhanced business districts, increased economic activity, improved community aesthetics, and strengthened organizational capacity within the Main Street programs. While specific measurable results like job creation numbers or increased sales figures are not explicitly detailed as requirements for this summary, the allocation of funds to specific Main Street categories ($25,000 for Designated Main Street Maryland Communities, $10,000 for Main Street Maryland Affiliates, and $8,000 for Baltimore City Main Street Neighborhoods) provides a clear framework for resource distribution. The absence of a funding match requirement further facilitates access for eligible communities, simplifying the application and implementation process and accelerating their progress towards revitalization goals.

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

Venmo Small Business Grant Program Terms & Conditions Void in Puerto Rico and where prohibited by law. 1. Eligibility: The Grant Program is open only to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and the District of Columbia who: Are at least eighteen (18) years old. Have a U.S. Venmo Account and valid business profile on Venmo in good standing, with a profile photo, background photo, and business description at the time of application and through the time of any grant award. Own a small business, defined as a business entity that is duly organized, validly existing, and in good standing under the laws of its principal place of business (within the U.S. or D.C.) and: Can promptly provide all government documentation requested by Sponsor or Administrator to show proof of business status. Is active and has sold at least $500 worth of goods or services within the three (3) months prior to the start of the Grant Program Period. Employs ten (10) employees or less and has less than $50,000 in annual sales. Establishing a U.S. Venmo Account and valid business profile on Venmo is free. Conducting transactions on Venmo is not an eligibility criterion for this Grant Program. Employees of PayPal, Inc., Merkle Inc., Global Entrepreneurship Network, Inc., Hello Alice, Inc., and their parent and affiliate companies, as well as the immediate family (spouse, parents, siblings, and children) and household members of each such employee, are not eligible. The Grant Program is void where prohibited by law. 2. Sponsor: PayPal, Inc., 2211 North First Street, San Jose, CA 95131. Administrator: Merkle Inc., 3000 Town Center, Floor 21, Southfield, MI 48075. 3. Agreement to Terms & Conditions: Participation in this Grant Program constitutes applicant’s full and unconditional agreement to these Terms & Conditions and Sponsor’s and Administrator’s decisions, which are final and binding in all matters related to this Grant Program. Receiving a grant, if selected, is contingent upon fulfilling all requirements set forth herein and any additional requirements disclosed by Sponsor. 4. Timing: The Grant Program begins on May 10, 2024, at 12:00 a.m. Eastern Time ("ET") and ends on May 31, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. ET (the "Grant Program Period"). Sponsor's servers are the official time-keeping device for the Grant Program.

This grant assists Goshen County businesses in enhancing the external appearance of their buildings to attract more customers and improve community aesthetics. Projects can include updates to building frontages and business signage. Applicants are required to provide multiple bids for their projects, with a preference for local contractors, to demonstrate the economic development merit of the enhancements. Deadlines: Applications due first Friday of November, February, May, August

The City of Charlotte's Corridors of Opportunity (COO) program aims to foster thriving communities, build lasting legacies, and promote equitable growth across six key corridors. These corridors serve as vital links that connect people to essential resources and businesses. Key Partnerships The city collaborates with Business District Organizations (BDOs) to enhance the vitality of neighborhood commercial districts. The partnership involves building organizational capacity and providing business-support services, which are essential for fostering vibrant, healthy business environments. Funding Opportunity The program is leveraging a one-time funding opportunity through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The Charlotte City Council has approved $1M to support this initiative. This funding will assist both established and emerging BDOs in enhancing their services and organizational capabilities. Application Period Open Date: Monday, May 6 Close Date: Friday, June 14, at 5 p.m. How It Works Objective: Address the most immediate needs of BDOs within the COO through capacity building and tailored technical assistance. Funding Use: The grant supports organizational development, asset inventories, marketing communications, and development support services. Requirements: All applying organizations must complete strategic work and inventories or provide existing documentation. Eligibility Organizations: Must be non-profit with a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(6) designation. Location: Must serve a business district within the COO. Representation: Must represent at least 10 businesses within the district. Registration: Active SAM.gov UEI or have a fiduciary/fiscal sponsor with an UEI. Application Process Access: Use the provided link to create a login and apply. Documentation: Include a Work Sheet template indicating the desired services for funding consideration. Submission: Ensure all documents are read and understood before submitting. Additional Information Webinar: A Q&A webinar will be held on May 16 at 11 am. Registration is required to receive the virtual meeting link. Contact: Questions can be directed to corridorsofopportunity@charlottenc.gov.

This summer, small farmers and ranchers have a grant opportunity through the Board of County Commissioners. The Board is funding a mini-grant to Alachua County-based farms and ranches that earn between $1,000 and $250,000 annually. Funding is for capital and equipment expenditures that will positively impact these operation’s income. The total grant request must not exceed $5,000. Only one application per farm or ranch is permitted. The total funding available for this mini-grant is approximately $100,000. To reduce inequity in marginalized communities, this grant will also prioritize small farms and ranches owned by black, women, indigenous, and persons-of-color. Applications must be in the County Manager’s Office by 5 PM June 28, 2024.​ Applicants will complete the application and submit it to Alachua County’s Office of Sustainability, Equity, and Economic Development Strategies. Applications may be submitted by email to SMAACA@alachuacounty.us​