Business and Commerce Grants

The City of South Bend Department of Public Works is currently accepting applications for its 2024 Lamppost Lighting Program. This initiative is designed to assist homeowners within South Bend's city limits by providing lighting enhancements for their neighborhoods through a cost-share program. The program directly aligns with the city's mission to improve public infrastructure and enhance community safety and quality of life for its residents. By offering solar-powered lampposts for residential front yards, the program aims to address practical needs while promoting sustainable solutions. The primary beneficiaries of this program are homeowners residing within the City of South Bend. The program specifically targets two areas selected based on income levels, the number of vacant lots, and the existing need for improved lighting. Homeowners in these target areas receive a reduced cost share of $50, compared to $250 for those outside these areas, demonstrating a focus on supporting communities with greater need. The overarching impact goal is to enhance neighborhood safety, visibility, and overall aesthetics by increasing accessible lighting. The program's priorities and focuses include ease of installation, accessibility, and community empowerment. It offers easy self-install, solar-powered lampposts, placing responsibility for pickup, installation, and maintenance on the homeowner, fostering a sense of ownership. While the City's Division of Engineering will inspect installations, the emphasis is on enabling residents to directly contribute to their neighborhood improvements. A limit of one lamppost per household ensures equitable distribution among participating residents. Expected outcomes and measurable results include a greater number of illuminated residential front yards, particularly in historically underserved or underlit areas. Success can be measured by the number of lampposts installed, the geographic spread of the installations, and anecdotal evidence or surveys from residents regarding perceived improvements in safety and neighborhood appearance. The cost-share model is a strategic priority, allowing for broader participation while distributing costs, and fostering a collaborative approach between the city and its residents for community betterment.

The City of Conway Economic Development Grant Program for 2024-2025 is now open for applications, aiming to drive economic growth and enhance the quality of life within the Conway, SC community. This grant program is designed to support various projects and activities that stimulate economic activity and benefit local organizations. The overarching mission of the program is to foster a thriving Conway by investing in initiatives that create a positive economic impact. The target beneficiaries for this grant program are local organizations within Conway, SC, including charities, nonprofits, chambers of commerce, and similar entities. The program's impact goals are centered on supporting economic development programs, expanding or recruiting new businesses, and facilitating special events that draw attention and activity to the city. By supporting these organizations, the program seeks to strengthen the local economy and improve the community's overall well-being. The program's priorities and focuses include funding for economic development programs such as small business incubators and activities to expand or recruit new businesses. It also covers economic development staff salaries and benefits, special events like festivals, parades, conferences, conventions, sporting events, and arts/cultural events within the City of Conway. Additionally, travel for the purpose of recruiting business is a permissible use of funds, highlighting the program's commitment to attracting new opportunities. The expected outcomes of this grant program are a more vibrant and economically active Conway. Measurable results would include an increase in new businesses, expansion of existing businesses, a rise in local employment, and a greater number of successful community events that enhance the city's appeal. The program's strategic priorities are clearly aligned with fostering a robust local economy through direct investment in growth-oriented initiatives and community enrichment. The foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change are rooted in the belief that targeted investments in local organizations and economic development initiatives will directly lead to a stronger, more dynamic community. By providing financial support for key activities, the City of Conway aims to create a ripple effect, where initial investments lead to sustained economic growth, increased civic engagement, and an improved quality of life for all residents. This approach emphasizes collaborative efforts between the city and local organizations to achieve shared prosperity.

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 grant provides financial support to federally recognized tribes and tribal organizations for solar energy projects that benefit their communities, particularly focusing on reducing energy costs for low-income households and enhancing tribal facilities.

The City of West Hollywood's Arts Project Grant offers funding to eligible nonprofit arts organizations for projects taking place within the city and serving its community. This program aligns with the city's broader mission to enrich the lives of its residents and visitors through cultural engagement. The grant aims to foster a vibrant arts scene, recognize and champion local cultural resources, and discover new places for artmaking, directly supporting the city's commitment to cultural development and community well-being. The primary target beneficiaries are the residents and visitors of West Hollywood, with a focus on increasing their access to quality arts programming. The program seeks to engage diverse audiences and expand participation in the arts, particularly making experiences financially and geographically accessible. Beyond cultural enrichment, the grant also intends to support local businesses by increasing revenues and fostering arts-business partnerships, contributing to the economic vitality of the West Hollywood community. Key priorities for this grant include presenting one artistic presentation per year, as opposed to a series of projects, ensuring focused and impactful events. The program prioritizes organizations that can demonstrate artistic experience, an understanding of West Hollywood's unique cultural diversity, and a commitment to serving the general public within the city or immediately adjacent areas. Projects that do not include fundraisers, capital campaigns, murals, or religious-based programs are eligible, maintaining a clear focus on public arts presentations. Expected outcomes and measurable results are centered on increasing engagement with the arts, expanding arts audiences, and enhancing the accessibility of arts experiences for West Hollywood residents. The program also aims to strengthen local cultural resources and generate economic benefits for local businesses through arts-related activities. While specific quantitative metrics are not detailed in the provided text, the emphasis on "increasing access," "expanding audiences," and "increasing revenues for local businesses" indicates the desire for demonstrable positive impacts in these areas. The City of West Hollywood's strategic priorities for this grant reflect a theory of change that postulates that by investing in local arts organizations and projects, the city can foster a more engaged, culturally rich, and economically robust community. The grant's focus on accessibility, local relevance, and partnership building suggests a belief that widespread participation in the arts can lead to a stronger sense of community, increased quality of life for residents, and tangible economic benefits for local enterprises. This aligns with a broader strategy of leveraging cultural assets for comprehensive community development.

The Grants for the Arts Arts Programming grant supports arts and culture organizations in San Francisco. This program is designed to foster economic investment in the city through robust and diverse programming, demonstrating a commitment to artistic quality and community engagement. The overarching goal is to deliberately improve San Francisco by integrating arts and culture with communities to understand needs and cultivate lasting, equitable change. This aligns with a strategic priority to leverage arts for social good and community development, serving as a catalyst for positive transformation within the city. Target beneficiaries for this grant are arts and culture organizations, specifically those that are nonprofit 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), or 501(c)(6) entities, or those using a fiscal sponsor. The impact goals are broad, focusing on economic investment, professional employment within the arts, high artistic quality, and deep community engagement. Expected outcomes include well-attended events, a demonstrated commitment to improving San Francisco through arts, and evidence of responsible operational and fiscal management from grantee organizations. These outcomes contribute to a theory of change where a vibrant arts sector directly enhances community well-being and economic stability. The program prioritizes organizations that demonstrate economic investment through diverse programming and well-attended events, employ professionals for high artistic quality, and utilize arts and culture to deliberately improve San Francisco through deep community engagement. There is also a focus on organizations with a strong track record of responsible operational and fiscal management. This ensures that the grants support sustainable and impactful initiatives that can effectively deliver on their promises to the community. Funding amounts vary based on the organization's budget size, ranging from $10,000 for first-time grantees or those with previous low-scoring applications, up to $265,000 for "Mega" organizations with budgets exceeding $15 million. The grant duration is two years, from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2026. Eligibility also requires the applicant organization to be San Francisco-based, with non-fiscally sponsored organizations needing to demonstrate a San Francisco corporate address through verifiable documentation. This local focus underscores the foundation's strategic priority to directly benefit its immediate community and strengthen the local arts ecosystem.

The Crime Prevention Foundation aims to increase public awareness and provide financial assistance to crime prevention programs within Brown County, Wisconsin. Their mission is directly aligned with reducing crime by addressing its fundamental elements: desire, ability, and opportunity. This grant program specifically provides financial support to both existing crime prevention initiatives and the implementation of new programs, reinforcing the foundation's commitment to a safer community. The target beneficiaries of this grant are the residents of Brown County, as the programs funded are designed to improve public safety and prevent crime in the area. The impact goals are centered on fostering a community where the desire, ability, and opportunity for crime are significantly diminished. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond "typically up to $3,000" in funding information, the overall expected outcome is a reduction in criminal activity and an enhanced sense of security for Brown County citizens. The foundation's strategic priorities are clearly outlined by the "Priorities" section, which identifies the three necessary elements for a crime to occur: desire, ability, and opportunity. This indicates a theory of change that by targeting and mitigating these three factors, crime can be effectively prevented. The funding information, typically up to $3,000, suggests a focus on supporting a broader range of smaller-scale, impactful programs rather than a few large initiatives. Eligibility criteria further define the foundation's strategic approach. Applicants must be nonprofit organizations with a 501(c)(3) designation or governmental bodies operating in Brown County, and they must conduct business without discrimination. The foundation explicitly states what it does not fund, such as capital campaigns, religious activities, individuals, endowments, and lobbying, ensuring that resources are directed towards direct crime prevention efforts and not diverted to other causes. These exclusions highlight a focused strategy on tangible, community-based crime prevention programs rather than general fundraising or advocacy.

The Arts Council of Southwestern Indiana (ARTSWIN) recognizes individuals, groups, businesses, projects, and institutions that have made significant contributions to the arts in Southwestern Indiana. This grant program, specifically focused on various awards, aligns with ARTSWIN's mission to support and promote the arts within the community. The awards aim to celebrate artistic excellence, long-standing commitment to the arts, and the positive impact of arts activities on the City of Evansville and Vanderburgh County. The target beneficiaries for these awards include individual artists (visual, performing, film, literary), young artists (rising high school juniors or seniors), arts educators, and community projects that utilize the arts for advancement. The impact goals are to acknowledge and encourage artistic talent, foster community engagement through the arts, and recognize the vital role the arts play in community, economic development, and quality of life. The program prioritizes and focuses on several categories: the Mayor’s Art Award for exceptional, long-standing impact; Visual Arts Award for outstanding visual artists; Performing Arts Award for exceptional performing artists; Young Artist Award for promising high school students; Arts Educator Award for influential educators; and the Arts Project Award for projects advancing community goals. A key focus is on current residents of Vanderburgh County for the Mayor's Art Award, and generally on those whose arts activities have had a significant impact on the City of Evansville or Southwestern Indiana. The expected outcomes and measurable results include the public recognition of significant contributions to the arts, the encouragement of emerging talent, and the celebration of arts-led community development initiatives. While specific quantitative measures are not detailed, the prestige of the awards and the public recognition serve as a form of measurable impact, elevating the profile of the arts and inspiring further artistic endeavors within the region. The repeated emphasis on impact within the community underscores ARTSWIN's strategic priority to integrate the arts as a core component of regional identity and development.

The City of Hyattsville Vandalism Prevention Grants Program aims to offer financial relief to small businesses and 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations within Hyattsville that have been negatively affected by vandalism. This program is funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and has a total of $15,000 available, split between two grants. The Vandalism Prevention Grant is specifically a reimbursement grant. While a direct "foundation mission alignment" and "theory of change" from the City of Hyattsville are not explicitly stated, the program's existence clearly aligns with a municipal mission to support local economic stability and community safety by mitigating the financial burdens of vandalism on its small business and non-profit sectors. The primary target beneficiaries are small businesses and 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations located in Hyattsville. A small business is defined as having fewer than 50 employees, annual revenues between $1,000 and $5 million, being independently owned and operated, and not dominant in its field. Franchise owners are eligible, but private residences, landlords, and multifamily residential properties are excluded. The impact goal is to help these entities cover costs associated with eligible repairs and security measures following vandalism incidents, thereby fostering their recovery and enhancing their resilience against future occurrences. The program prioritizes funding for specific eligible security measures. These include security cameras and recording equipment, shatterproof glass and protective films, lock enhancements, exterior lighting enhancements, alarm and monitoring systems, and anti-graffiti films, paints, or coatings. Funds are provided as a reimbursement for these measures acquired between July 1, 2022, and June 30, 2024. The focus is clearly on proactive and reactive measures that directly address the physical and financial impacts of vandalism. The expected outcomes include reduced financial strain on affected small businesses and non-profits, improved security infrastructure across the city's commercial and non-profit sectors, and a disincentive for future vandalism through enhanced protective measures. Measurable results would be tracked by the number of grants awarded, the total amount of funds reimbursed, and the types of security measures implemented. While the document does not outline specific metrics like "reduction in vandalism incidents," the direct correlation between funding security enhancements and mitigating vandalism effects implies these as indirect, desired outcomes. The maximum award for the Vandalism Prevention Grant is $2,000 per business or non-profit organization.

The Asian Community Fund (ACF) at The Boston Foundation is offering grants for its 2024 cycle to organizations and/or projects that primarily serve the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community in Massachusetts. This initiative directly aligns with the foundation's mission to develop, strengthen, and support AAPI community power, galvanize diverse ethnicities within this community, and build a stronger advocacy voice. The ACF's overarching goal is to advocate for equal access for AAPI individuals in all aspects of society and to collaborate with other communities of color and oppressed communities to overcome injustice and racism. The grantmaking approach is rooted in strengthening the broader AAPI community ecosystem across Massachusetts and advancing policy and systems change, reflecting the foundation's strategic priority to foster systemic impact. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations based in Massachusetts, or those with a qualifying fiscal agent, that primarily serve the AAPI community. The impact goals are multi-faceted, focusing on catalyzing new partnerships, expanding the capacity of local AAPI nonprofit and business sectors, and responding to emerging community needs. Expected outcomes include increased AAPI visibility, belonging, and narrative change through convening activities, innovative solutions to systemic gaps facing AAPI residents, and expanded reach and impact of programs that advance policy and systems change. Organizations will be evaluated based on their mission, impact, and alignment to ACF’s goals of strengthening the AAPI community ecosystem and advancing systems change. The program prioritizes several key areas of focus. These include supporting general operating costs for eligible organizations and projects. Funding will specifically support three types of work: Convening, which brings communities together to elevate AAPI visibility and foster solidarity; Catalyzing, which fuels new collaborations and innovations to address systemic gaps; and Capacity Building, which expands the reach of programs focused on policy and systems change. Priority will also be given to organizations serving underrepresented AAPI ethnicities and geographical regions, those not previously funded by ACF/TBF, and grassroots community organizations. This targeted approach demonstrates the foundation's strategic commitment to equitable distribution of resources and empowerment of diverse AAPI segments. The foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change are evident in its emphasis on strengthening the AAPI community ecosystem and driving policy and systems change. The ACF believes that by investing in convening, catalyzing, and capacity building initiatives, it can create a ripple effect, leading to increased community power, stronger advocacy, and ultimately, greater equity for AAPI residents in Massachusetts. The grants, ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, are designed to support organizations in achieving these objectives. While the initial grant size was advertised as $10,000 to $100,000, the funding considerations specify a range of $5,000 to $15,000 for general operating support. Applicants will be notified of funding decisions in June 2024 and will be expected to share their experiences and impact in summer 2025, providing measurable results and demonstrating the effectiveness of the foundation's theory of change.

The CDC Foundation is offering a grant program to community-based organizations (CBOs) focused on raising awareness about critical health warning signs during and after pregnancy. This initiative is part of the national "Hear Her" communication campaign, which aims to improve communication among pregnant and postpartum individuals, their support networks, and healthcare providers. The program aligns with the CDC Foundation's mission to protect health and safety by supporting public health initiatives, specifically addressing maternal health outcomes, which is a key strategic priority. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant are pregnant and postpartum people, along with their support networks (friends and family) and healthcare providers who interact with this population. The impact goal is to educate communities and improve communication, ultimately leading to better maternal health outcomes. Organizations serving communities that experience poorer maternal health outcomes are a particular focus. The program prioritizes CBOs that are headquartered in and serve communities within the US. Eligible organizations must specifically serve pregnant or postpartum people, their support systems, and/or healthcare providers. A key focus is on organizations with the staff capacity to execute planned activities within the one-year grant duration and those that serve their local communities. Special consideration is given to organizations serving specific metropolitan areas, including Atlanta, Dallas/Ft. Worth, New Orleans, New York City, and St. Louis, as well as those whose leadership and staff reflect the communities they serve. The expected outcome of this grant program is increased awareness of important health warning signs during and after pregnancy among the target population. Measurable results will stem from the successful implementation of activities designed to educate communities and enhance communication. By fostering better communication and awareness, the CDC Foundation's theory of change suggests that individuals will be empowered to recognize and act on warning signs, leading to timely interventions and a reduction in adverse maternal health events. The program offers up to six awards of $50,000 each, with activities to be completed within one year.

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is offering the Illinois Grocery Initiative New Stores in Food Deserts program to enhance access to fresh food in underserved areas. This grant program is designed to incentivize the establishment of new grocery stores within "food deserts," which are census tracts characterized by specific poverty standards, population density, and limited food accessibility. The core mission alignment is to combat food insecurity and improve public health by addressing the systemic issue of inadequate access to nutritious food. The primary target beneficiaries of this program are communities residing in identified food deserts across all counties in Illinois. The impact goals are to alleviate food insecurity, increase the availability of fresh and healthy food options, and foster economic development within these communities. The program prioritizes supporting the establishment of new grocery stores by offering competitive grants to cover eligible capital and non-capital costs, effectively reducing the financial barriers for businesses willing to operate in these challenging environments. Expected outcomes include a significant increase in the number of new grocery stores operating in food desert areas, leading to improved food access for residents. Measurable results will be tracked through quarterly performance data submitted by grantees. These measures encompass the completion of new store project milestones, quarterly food sales, the sustained operation of new grocery stores for at least one year post-completion, and the number of employees in full-time equivalents. These metrics will allow DCEO to assess the program's effectiveness in achieving its objectives. The DCEO's strategic priority through this initiative is to directly address social determinants of health and economic equity by ensuring all Illinois residents have equitable access to healthy food options. The underlying theory of change is that by providing financial incentives for new grocery stores in food deserts, the market will respond to the unmet demand for fresh food, thereby improving community health, increasing local employment, and revitalizing underserved areas. The total funding allocated is $14 million across multiple rounds, with individual awards ranging from $160,000 to $2,400,000, demonstrating a substantial commitment to this strategic goal. The project period is from July 1st, 2024, to December 31st, 2026.

The Aging Adults Program, offered by The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida (CFNF), is designed to support nonprofit organizations primarily focused on aging adults or their caregivers. This grant aligns with the foundation's mission to address critical needs within its service area, particularly given the growing population of aging adults facing challenges in maintaining a high quality of life on limited incomes. By providing funding, the CFNF aims to bolster community initiatives that directly benefit this vulnerable demographic, reflecting a strategic priority to support the well-being of the region's older residents and those who care for them. The primary target beneficiaries of this program are aging adults seeking to maintain a high quality of life, as well as the caregivers who support them. The impact goals are centered on providing direct support to these groups, which can encompass a range of services designed to alleviate the challenges associated with aging and caregiving. The program specifically emphasizes the importance of maintaining a high quality of life on limited incomes, indicating an underlying goal of fostering financial stability, health, and overall well-being for aging individuals within the community. The program prioritizes organizations that serve Duval County primarily, with limited support also available for services in Baker, Clay, Nassau, Putnam, and St. Johns counties. This geographic focus ensures that the grants address the needs of the communities where the foundation operates. The grants' focus on direct support for aging adults or their caregivers highlights the foundation's commitment to tangible, immediate benefits. The grant size, up to $15,000, suggests a focus on supporting smaller to medium-sized initiatives or specific projects that can demonstrate a clear and measurable impact within the grant period of October 1, 2024, to December 31, 2025. Expected outcomes include improved quality of life for aging adults, enhanced support systems for caregivers, and the sustained operation of vital nonprofit services in the region. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the direct support, the emphasis on a two-year work history and an annual operating budget of $100,000 or above for eligible nonprofits suggests that the foundation seeks to partner with established organizations capable of delivering impactful and sustainable programs. The CFNF's strategic priorities are evident in its exclusion of funding for athletic associations, fundraising event sponsorships, schools, and programs promoting religious beliefs, indicating a focused approach on direct social services for aging populations, aligning with a theory of change that posits direct community investment will lead to improved societal well-being for its elder citizens.

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Technology Center (MassCEC) is offering Climate-Critical Workforce Training, Equipment, and Infrastructure Grants (“Climate Training Grants”) to increase access to modern, relevant training equipment and infrastructure. These grants provide direct funding and technical assistance to organizations that can build and scale career pathways and upskilling programs. The core mission alignment is to help Massachusetts residents access and advance in climate-critical priority occupations, thereby addressing clean energy and climate tech employer needs and providing high-quality training and support opportunities across the Commonwealth. The target beneficiaries for these grants are Massachusetts residents who can benefit from career pathways and upskilling programs in climate-critical priority occupations. The impact goals are to fill workforce gaps in climate-critical sectors, expand recruitment pipelines, and create new or expand existing technical and job readiness training opportunities. This initiative also aims to create and expand career advancement programming and upskilling training for incumbent workers, ensuring businesses can grow to support the state’s climate goals. The program prioritizes several key areas, including expanding recruitment pipelines to broaden access to climate-critical priority occupations, creating and expanding technical and job readiness training, and fostering career advancement and upskilling opportunities. It also focuses on leveraging effective workforce development models like registered apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships, developing new relationships with employers for job placements, and establishing wraparound and retention support services to address barriers to entry and advancement. Furthermore, a significant focus is on expanding the availability and effectiveness of climate-critical training by securing modern equipment and infrastructure resources. Expected outcomes include a more robust workforce for climate-critical sectors, increased access for residents to high-quality training and job opportunities, and businesses expanding their capacity to meet climate goals. Measurable results will likely involve the number of residents trained, placed in climate-critical occupations, and upskilled, as well as the expansion of training programs, equipment, and infrastructure. The overall theory of change is that by investing in workforce development, equipment, and infrastructure, MassCEC can directly support the state's clean energy and climate tech employer needs while creating equitable access to career advancement for Massachusetts residents.

The Tustin Cares program, offered by the City of Tustin in partnership with the Orange County-Inland Empire Small Business Development Center (SBDC), presents the Main Street Digital Training & Grant Program. This initiative aims to provide vital training and funding to retail businesses, home-based businesses, and nonprofits within Tustin, specifically targeting an increase in their social media presence and overall revenue. While not explicitly stating a "foundation mission alignment," the program's focus on local business development and recovery suggests an alignment with broader community economic well-being and resilience, particularly in the wake of financial hardships. The target beneficiaries of the Main Street Digital Program are for-profit commercially-zoned brick-and-mortar retail businesses, home-based businesses, and nonprofits physically located in Tustin. Eligibility criteria specify that businesses must have had an active Tustin business license since the first quarter of 2023, possess a minimum of 2 employees and no more than 25 full-time equivalent employees as of December 31, 2023, and be in good standing with the City. Businesses that have participated in previous Main Street Digital Programs are ineligible, but those that received alternative COVID-19 related funding, such as EIDL or PPP loans, are eligible. The program's priorities and focuses are squarely on digital presence and revenue generation for small businesses and nonprofits. The SBDC has developed a virtual training program specifically designed to assist businesses with "Creating a Digital Presence." This emphasis highlights the City of Tustin's strategic priority to empower local enterprises with the tools and knowledge necessary to thrive in an increasingly digital marketplace, thereby fostering economic growth and stability within the community. Expected outcomes and measurable results include an enhanced social media presence and increased revenue for participating businesses and nonprofits. The program's theory of change appears to be that by providing targeted digital marketing training and financial assistance, local businesses will be better equipped to reach customers, expand their operations, and ultimately contribute to the economic revitalization of Tustin. The requirement for businesses to certify financial hardship due to COVID-19 and the $500 grant amount, which cannot exceed the amount of lost revenue, also suggest an immediate goal of alleviating pandemic-related economic strain.

The Riverside Small & Micro Business Grant Program is a City of Riverside initiative designed to foster local small business resiliency by offering grant awards of up to $25,000 to qualified businesses. This program aligns with a mission to support long-term economic stability and growth within the community, addressing not only ongoing pandemic recovery needs but also promoting access to valuable partner resources. The program's foundation is rooted in the Department of Treasury State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF), demonstrating a commitment to enhancing financial stability for small businesses. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant program are small and micro businesses located within Riverside city limits, particularly those in disadvantaged communities. The program focuses on businesses with under 50 employees, an annual gross revenue between $10,000 and $2,500,000, and those that can demonstrate a COVID-19 financial impact. By targeting these specific businesses, the program aims to reduce barriers to success and promote equitable economic development. A key priority of the Riverside Small & Micro Business Grant Program is to offer direct financial support, with grant sizes ranging from $10,000 to $100,000. Beyond monetary aid, the program also emphasizes capacity building through a FREE one-on-one Strategic Planning Consultation. These consultations are designed to help applicants identify opportunities for improvement, develop customized strategies for increased financial stability, and build long-term sustainability. The focus is on holistic support, extending beyond immediate financial relief to include strategic planning and resource connection. The expected outcomes of this program include enhanced financial stability, long-term sustainability, and increased capacity for success among Riverside's small and micro businesses. Measurable results will likely stem from the improved financial health of participating businesses, their ability to sustain operations, and their growth within the community. The program's strategic priorities are centered on recovery, resiliency, and growth, operating under a theory of change that postulates that by providing financial assistance and strategic guidance, small businesses will be better equipped to overcome challenges, thrive, and contribute to the local economy.

The Mass Cultural Council's Festivals & Projects Grants program aims to foster a diverse and valued creative and cultural sector within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. This grant initiative provides one-year grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, with a fixed amount of $2,500 for eligible activities, to support projects that offer public benefit through the arts, humanities, or sciences. The program's activities are scheduled to take place between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025. The Council's broader mission aligns with advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion across the cultural sector, viewing it as essential to the Commonwealth's vitality. The target beneficiaries for this program include a broad spectrum of organizations and the general public of Massachusetts. Eligible applicants encompass Non-Profit Organizations, For-Profit Organizations (specifically Profit Corporations, Multiple-Member LLCs, Limited Partnerships, or Limited Liability Partnerships), Government Entities (federally recognized Tribal, State, or Municipal), and Unincorporated Organizations operating with a fiscal agent. The grants aim to impact communities by supporting festivals, projects, or activities that are free to the public, thus increasing accessibility to cultural experiences. Furthermore, there's a strong focus on empowering organizations led by and serving people of the global majority (BIPOC-centered organizations) and those operating in cities and towns with lower median household incomes and educational attainment, including Gateway Cities. Prioritization for funding is given to festivals, projects, or activities that significantly incorporate or are primarily focused on arts, humanities, or sciences, and those that align with the agency's values of public service and inclusion. Special consideration is given to applicants who have not received Mass Cultural Council funding in the last three fiscal years or are first-time applicants, as well as those participating in the Agency’s Card to Culture program. This approach reflects the Council's strategic priority to broaden its reach and support new and underserved cultural entities. The expected outcomes of the Festivals & Projects Grants program include a more equitable and diverse cultural landscape across Massachusetts, increased public engagement with arts, humanities, and sciences, and enhanced cultural opportunities in economically disadvantaged areas. Measurable results will likely include the number of new organizations funded, the proportion of funding directed to BIPOC-centered organizations and those in priority communities, and the accessibility of cultural events to the public (e.g., free events). The Mass Cultural Council's theory of change posits that by strategically investing in diverse cultural initiatives and organizations that advance equity, they can strengthen the overall creative economy and ensure that cultural experiences are accessible and reflective of all communities in the Commonwealth.

This competition provides funding and support to early-stage Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs in the U.S. to help them grow their innovative businesses and close opportunity gaps.

Cox Communications, in partnership with the Arizona Community Foundation, offers grants through Cox Charities to support nonprofit organizations in Arizona. This program aligns with the foundation's mission to enhance communities by investing in key areas. Eligible organizations include Arizona 501(c)(3) entities, government agencies, and tribal entities, with religious organizations able to apply for non-sectarian programs. The program aims to foster positive community impact by supporting initiatives that address critical social needs within the state. The Cox Charities grant program targets beneficiaries across several key focus areas: Education, with a priority on K-12 and STEAM initiatives; Diversity, specifically programs serving 80% or more of a target population or promoting inclusion, diversity, and equity; Environment/Sustainability, focusing on water conservation, waste reduction, or carbon reduction; and Digital Equity, supporting digital literacy programs, computer distribution, or services for underserved communities. These priorities reflect the foundation's strategic focus on empowering individuals and communities through access to essential resources and opportunities. The expected outcomes of the Cox Charities grant program are centered on measurable results within these focus areas. For education, the goal is to improve educational attainment and skills, particularly in STEM fields. Diversity initiatives aim to foster more inclusive communities and reduce disparities. Environmental grants seek tangible improvements in sustainability practices, such as reduced water consumption or waste. Digital equity programs are expected to increase digital literacy and access, bridging the digital divide for underserved populations. The grant duration is not specified, but grants typically range from $2,500 to $10,000. The foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change are evident in its commitment to supporting programs that directly address identified community needs and create lasting impact. By prioritizing specific areas like K-12 and STEAM education, targeted diversity programs, environmental sustainability, and digital literacy, Cox Charities aims to drive systemic change. They emphasize fiscal accountability and responsibility among applicants, and organizations must demonstrate a non-discrimination policy. Furthermore, providing opportunities for Cox Communications Arizona employees to volunteer or serve on boards highlights a belief in community engagement and shared responsibility for achieving these outcomes.

The Historic Preservation Board’s Building Restoration Grant, offered by the City of Lafayette, Colorado, provides crucial financial support for the repair and restoration of buildings aged 50 years or older. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission to preserve and celebrate Lafayette's historical architectural heritage, ensuring the longevity and aesthetic appeal of its older structures. The grant program directly supports the strategic priority of maintaining the city's unique historical character and promoting community pride in its past. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are owners of commercial buildings, houses, churches, and outbuildings within Lafayette city limits that are at least 50 years old. The program aims to encourage the preservation of these structures, with impact goals centered on preventing deterioration, enhancing historical aesthetics, and extending the lifespan of these significant buildings. By supporting both structural and cosmetic projects, the grant ensures a comprehensive approach to historical preservation. The grant prioritizes projects that demonstrate longevity, focusing on repairs that will significantly extend the building's lifespan. It also emphasizes appearance, encouraging the use of historic materials where applicable to maintain architectural integrity. Furthermore, the program encourages the use of Lafayette-based contractors or DIY efforts, fostering local economic activity and community engagement. Urgency of need is also a key consideration, along with thorough research on the property's history, which aligns with a broader theory of change that sees informed preservation efforts leading to more impactful and sustainable outcomes. Expected outcomes include a visible improvement in the condition and historical accuracy of older buildings throughout Lafayette. Measurable results will be assessed through the number of successful restoration projects completed, the extent of structural and cosmetic improvements, and the documented use of historical materials. The grant, offering between $1,000 and $10,000, with grants up to $3,000 to support preservation, aims to contribute to a vibrant historical landscape, reinforcing the city's strategic priority of cultural preservation and enriching the lives of its residents.