Grants for For profit organizations other than small businesses - Food and Nutrition

The Business Development Grant Program, offered by the Town of Perryville, Maryland, is designed to stimulate economic development within the town's corporate limits. Its primary objectives are to foster new job opportunities, reduce the number of vacant storefronts, encourage business diversification, attract additional private sector investment, and promote in-fill business development. This program aligns with a strategic goal of local government to create a vibrant and sustainable economic environment, though specific "foundation mission alignment" beyond this general goal is not explicitly stated as this is a municipal program rather than a private foundation. The target beneficiaries of this program are new and existing small businesses located within the Town of Perryville. The program aims to support these businesses by providing funds necessary for operational needs, thereby ensuring their financial viability and encouraging growth. The ultimate impact goals include strengthening the local economy, increasing employment, and enhancing the overall business landscape of Perryville. The emphasis on filling vacant storefronts and encouraging diversification suggests a focus on revitalizing commercial areas and expanding the range of goods and services available to residents and visitors. The program prioritizes a broad range of eligible uses for funds, including building improvements, the purchase of machinery, equipment, furniture, fixtures, inventory, property acquisition or leasing, and advertising campaigns. This comprehensive approach reflects a strategic priority to support various aspects of business development and expansion. The eligibility criteria further refine the program's focus, requiring applicants to be in good standing with the Town, Cecil County, and the State of Maryland, and to operate within specific zoning districts (Neighborhood Business, Town Center, Highway Commercial, Residential Marine, Commercial Maritime, and for existing businesses, Residential districts). This indicates a deliberate strategy to concentrate development in designated commercial and mixed-use areas. Expected outcomes and measurable results include an increase in new job creation, a reduction in the number of unoccupied commercial properties, a more diverse local business sector, and a rise in private sector investment. While specific metrics are not detailed in the provided information, the program's objectives inherently suggest these as key performance indicators. The "theory of change" underpinning this grant is that by providing financial assistance for operational needs and growth initiatives, the Town of Perryville can directly stimulate business activity, which in turn will lead to economic growth and community benefits. This proactive approach by the municipality serves as its strategic priority for economic development.

This grant provides financial support to grocery stores and small food retailers in Minnesota to improve their facilities and equipment, making healthy and affordable food more accessible in underserved communities.

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Foundation offers Special Project Grants to support organizations aiming to enhance their community impact. These grants are designed to align with the Foundation's mission by addressing various issues affecting Louisiana's health and community well-being. The program specifically targets nonprofit organizations that are 501(c)(3) IRS-designated and in good standing with the Louisiana Secretary of State, working for charitable, religious, scientific, literary, or other similar purposes. This ensures that funding is directed towards legitimate organizations committed to improving the state. The primary goal of these grants is to empower organizations to either complete existing projects previously funded by the Foundation or to strategically expand current efforts and implement new initiatives. These new efforts must be based on clear evidence of need and solid data, emphasizing a data-driven approach to community development and health improvement. The target beneficiaries are the communities across all parishes in Louisiana, particularly those impacted by health and well-being challenges. The Foundation's strategic priorities are evident in its focus on supporting projects that demonstrate a clear pathway to increased community impact. The "theory of change" implied here is that by investing in established or well-researched new projects, the Foundation can directly contribute to tangible improvements in health and community well-being across Louisiana. The funding information specifies grant sizes ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, with a duration of one year, indicating a commitment to significant, yet focused, short-term impact. Expected outcomes include the successful completion of existing projects, as well as the strategic expansion or effective implementation of new initiatives that are supported by strong data. Measurable results would likely stem from the "clear evidence of need and solid data" requirement, meaning organizations would need to demonstrate the impact of their efforts on Louisiana's health or community well-being. While specific metrics are not detailed, the emphasis on data suggests that grantees will be held accountable for demonstrating quantifiable improvements in their target areas, contributing to the Foundation's overarching goal of fostering a healthier and more resilient Louisiana.

This funding opportunity supports collaborative research and extension projects aimed at improving the productivity and sustainability of the U.S. specialty crop industry, including fruits, vegetables, and horticultural crops.

Mountain BizWorks in North Carolina is offering 20 micro-grants of $2,500 each to startups and emerging businesses owned by historically underrepresented groups, aiming to support their growth and contribution to the local community.

This program provides financial support to very small meat and poultry processors in Pennsylvania to help them expand their operations and improve food safety compliance.

The Southern Restaurants for Racial Justice (SRRJ) Expansion/Growth Grant supports Black-owned restaurants and food businesses across the United States by providing financial assistance aimed at start-up costs, business improvements, and sustainability efforts. Originating in 2020 as a coalition focused on aiding Black-owned restaurants during the Covid-19 pandemic, SRRJ has since partnered with The LEE Initiative and has raised over $4 million in corporate funding. The grants are part of an ongoing effort to preserve and promote Black culinary traditions and leadership. For 2024, each grant will be awarded in the amount of $20,000. The deadline for applications is September 15, 2024, at 11:59 PM EST.

Feet First Philly's Public Space Enhancement Mini-Grant, ranging from $500 to $2000, supports projects that enhance walkability and safety in public spaces across Philadelphia, with applications open to organizations, businesses, and individuals, provided the enhancements are not used for financial gain.

The California Department of Food and Agriculture is offering a grant of over $1 million for the implementation of dairy digesters on California dairy farms, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by converting methane into renewable energy, with a focus on projects that use at least 80% dairy livestock manure as feedstock.

This grant provides funding to agricultural professionals and organizations in the Western U.S. to implement educational and demonstration projects that promote the adoption of sustainable farming practices based on previous research findings.

This program provides funding to Michigan-based food hubs and farm stops to improve local food infrastructure and increase access to fresh, locally sourced produce.

Fiscal Year 2024 Key Objectives Application proposals must include at least one of the following three objectives identified below. Proposals may contain more than one objective. As noted in Section 4, applicants must map their proposed activities and indicators measuring success to the objective(s) using the Activities/Indicators Tracker. If awarded, grantees will be required to use the FNS-908 Performance Progress Report to report on progress towards activities that align with the required objective(s) listed on the Activities/Indicators Tracker. Carefully considering proposed activities and indicators will prepare grantees for their performance progress reporting requirements if awarded. The project examples aligned with each objective listed below are only suggestions. A PTIG project may assist State agencies in making investments in systems to improve efficiency, provide excellent customer service, and meet Federal standards as they face unprecedented operational challenges. FNS welcomes other projects that support these objectives and encourages applicants to propose innovative ideas to solve both common and unique problems associated with SNAP application and eligibility processes. 1. Modernize SNAP customer service and client communication to improve accessibility, transparency, and responsiveness in processing applications and determining eligibility. 2. Improve administrative infrastructure and day-to-day SNAP operations in processing applications and determining eligibility. 3. Invest in technology and systems to encourage cross collaboration and cross enrollment between SNAP and other Federal, State, and local assistance programs. Please read the full announcement for additional details.

The City of Vallejo received American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to establish a grant program aimed at supporting local small businesses severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative directly aligns with the city's commitment to economic recovery and resilience, seeking to mitigate the negative financial repercussions experienced by its business community. The program's core mission is to provide crucial financial assistance, specifically targeting security improvements, thereby fostering a safer and more stable operating environment for eligible businesses within Vallejo. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are for-profit and non-profit brick-and-mortar businesses situated in Vallejo. To qualify, businesses must possess a valid Vallejo business license, employ 20 or fewer individuals, and provide receipts for purchases made between January 1, 2023, and September 24, 2024. The program's impact goals are focused on enhancing the physical security of these businesses, thereby reducing vulnerability to crime and creating a more secure commercial landscape. The program prioritizes funding for security improvements, with grants available up to $3,000 for items such as cameras, locks, and window enhancements. This focus addresses a critical need for small businesses that may lack the resources to invest in such protective measures independently. The expected outcomes include a tangible increase in the security infrastructure of participating businesses, leading to a safer environment for employees, customers, and business assets. Measurable results will be directly tied to the utilization of grant funds for approved security upgrades. Success will be determined by the number of businesses receiving grants, the types of security improvements implemented, and potentially, a reduction in reported incidents related to security vulnerabilities among grant recipients. The City of Vallejo's strategic priority through this program is to strengthen its local economy by supporting its small business sector, recognizing that a resilient business community is vital for overall city prosperity and recovery from the pandemic's economic downturn. The underlying theory of change is that by providing targeted financial aid for essential security enhancements, the city can empower small businesses to protect their assets, maintain operations, and contribute to the broader economic stability and revitalization of Vallejo.

This grant provides funding to farmers, food cooperatives, food pantries, and nonprofits in rural Nebraska to improve access to healthy foods and strengthen partnerships with schools, focusing on local food systems and infrastructure enhancements.

The Mayor’s Office of Cultural Economy is offering a 2024 Grant Funding Program designed to support and promote the cultural economy of New Orleans. This program aligns with the office's mission to foster economic growth through cultural activities. For the FY24 cycle, twenty-five grants of $2,000 each will be awarded. The grants target individuals and organizations that are actively engaged in promoting the cultural economy. This includes educating youth, training cultural producers, providing networking opportunities, and creating cultural events. Eligible applicants include State and federal 501(c)3 nonprofits, for-profit businesses licensed with the City and State (for community/cultural activities only), and individuals such as artists who have secured a fiscal agent. The program aims to strengthen the cultural sector by supporting initiatives that build capacity and generate economic activity. The program prioritizes workshops, training, and conferences that enhance the capacity of cultural non-profits, neighborhood organizations, and cultural businesses. This capacity building encompasses networking, skill development (such as fundraising and grant writing), programming improvement, education on sustainability, and learning new concepts like place-based planning. Additionally, the grants support workshops, training, and conferences within specific Cultural Economy segments including Entertainment, Design, Preservation, Culinary Arts, Literary Arts and Humanities, and Visual Arts and Crafts. Expected outcomes include the creation of cultural events, increased employment for cultural workers (e.g., musicians), and increased sales for art and cultural vendors, thereby attracting tourists. The program's theory of change is that by investing in cultural education, training, networking, and events, the Office of Cultural Economy can stimulate economic growth and enhance the vibrancy of New Orleans' cultural landscape. All funded programs, events, and activities are required to acknowledge support from the Office of Cultural Economy, ensuring visibility and accountability.

The IDEA Fund program is a state-sponsored venture capital initiative that utilizes public funding (both state and federal) to drive economic development within the state. The primary focus of this program is to foster innovation and support technology-driven entrepreneurial endeavors that contribute to the state’s overall economic development growth. MTC’s Venture Capital Program was created to accelerate private venture capital investment in Missouri-based start-up companies and to increase the overall investment impact of third-party investments. The Venture Capital Program supports technology startups through matching equity or convertible debt investments up to $2,000,000 for the purpose of scaling the business to attract additional venture capital. Since 2010, MTC has invested over $49 million in more than 150 early-stage Missouri-based high-growth technology-focused companies. Since 2018, our portfolio companies have gone on to raise over $1.6 billion in additional private capital.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to Michigan farmers implementing regenerative agricultural practices to improve local food supply chains and enhance market access for their products.

Main Street Ventures offers Launch Funding to emerging, pre-revenue businesses that have a prototype or product. This grant program aims to support the growth and scaling of businesses within the Greater Cincinnati region, aligning with the foundation's mission to foster economic development and innovation in the area. The funding is specifically designed to cover key direct costs associated with growth projects, rather than general operating expenses, reflecting a strategic priority to provide tangible support for business acceleration. The primary target beneficiaries are business entities (C-Corp, S-Corp, or LLC) with a Federal Tax ID (EIN) located in the Greater Cincinnati region, which includes specific counties in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. Businesses must demonstrate customer demand and strong progression since their founding. The program focuses on specific growth projects that will accelerate business growth, with examples of suitable direct expenses including key equipment, packaging support, and technology product development. This targeted approach ensures that the grant funds directly contribute to measurable business expansion. Special consideration is given to women and minority-owned businesses, as well as businesses that can show matching funds from other sources. This reflects the foundation's strategic priorities to promote inclusivity and leverage additional investment, thereby maximizing the overall impact on the regional economy. The expected outcomes include the scaling of businesses, job creation, and increased economic vitality within the Greater Cincinnati region, with successful applicants demonstrating a clear impact of the grant funds on their business or the region. The Main Street Ventures' theory of change is rooted in providing early-stage, direct financial assistance to promising businesses to help them overcome critical growth hurdles. By focusing on direct costs and specific growth projects, the program aims to create a ripple effect, enabling these businesses to achieve significant milestones that would otherwise be out of reach. The emphasis on local businesses and underrepresented founders further amplifies the foundation's commitment to building a robust and equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Greater Cincinnati area. The grant duration of three years allows for sustained support and monitoring of the businesses' progress.

This program provides financial support to New Mexico-based small businesses with federal SBIR or STTR grants, helping them commercialize innovative technologies and grow their market presence.

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