Grants for Small businesses - Infrastructure

This funding opportunity provides $100,000 to established for-profit businesses in Cook County, Illinois, to support their growth through capital investments in workforce expansion, equipment, and facility upgrades.

This grant provides funding for collaborative, arts-based projects that improve community livability and cultural vibrancy in Pennsylvania, focusing on diversity, equity, and local engagement.

The Food Safety Education Fund grants program, administered by the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD), is designed to enhance food safety throughout Michigan. Funded by assessments on licensed food establishments, the program aligns with a mission to protect public health by providing critical food safety training and education. This initiative directly supports the broader goal of ensuring a safe food supply for all Michigan residents. The foundation's strategic priority is to prevent foodborne illness through proactive education and the empowerment of various stakeholders within the food system. The program primarily targets two key beneficiary groups: Michigan consumers and food service establishment employees, as well as agents of the director who enforce food regulations (e.g., local health department sanitarians and MDARD food safety inspectors). The impact goal is to improve food safety knowledge and practices among these groups, ultimately reducing the incidence of foodborne illnesses. Eligibility is restricted to Michigan governmental and non-profit organizations and entities, ensuring that the grants support organizations deeply embedded in community health and public service. Producers, marketers, processors, and growers are explicitly excluded to maintain the program's focus on education and training. For the 2024-2025 grant cycle, up to $365,600 is available, with a specific allocation of $242,500 for consumer food safety education and $114,100 for food service establishment employees and regulatory agents. This demonstrates a clear prioritization of widespread public education while also fortifying the knowledge base of those directly involved in food handling and enforcement. The grant duration is typically one year, though multi-year proposals are considered on an individual basis, contingent on future funding availability. Proposals should specifically avoid requesting funding for routine or required training, such as HACCP or ServSafe certification, emphasizing a focus on innovative and supplementary educational initiatives. Proposals are evaluated based on several key criteria, including goals and objectives to improve food safety, assessment of statewide need and audience, measurable outcomes, potential for partnering with other organizations, inclusion of matching funds, and opportunities to build upon previously funded projects. These selection criteria reflect the program's theory of change, which posits that strategic partnerships, evidence-based interventions, and quantifiable results are essential for achieving sustainable improvements in food safety. The expected outcomes include a more informed public, better-trained food service professionals, and more effective enforcement of food safety regulations, all contributing to a safer food environment across Michigan.

The Innes Street Incentive Grant, offered by the City of Salisbury, aims to enhance building facades, landscapes, driveways, and parking lots within the Innes Street Improvement District. This program is a matching grant, with the City providing up to $5,000 per project on a 50/50 basis. The grant seeks to align with the City's mission of urban beautification and economic development by incentivizing property and business owners to invest in their properties, thereby improving the overall appearance and pedestrian-friendly environment of the district. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are property and business owners within the Innes Street Improvement District. The impact goals include fostering a more aesthetically pleasing and vibrant commercial area, attracting more visitors and businesses, and ultimately boosting local economic activity. By supporting a range of projects from minor repairs to substantial rehabilitations and the installation of new pedestrian amenities, the grant targets a broad spectrum of improvements that collectively enhance the district's appeal. The grant prioritizes several key areas, including the introduction of new pedestrian amenities like outdoor seating, planters, awnings, and lighting, as well as the installation of new façade elements and the restoration of storefronts. Other focuses include painting murals, repairing and replacing windows and doors, repointing brick, and implementing green building improvements such as solar panels and electric vehicle charging stations. Projects are expected to result in visible improvements to properties, increased pedestrian traffic, and a more positive perception of the Innes Street area. Measurable results could include the number of completed projects, the total investment leveraged through matching funds, and qualitative assessments of improved aesthetics and public engagement. The City of Salisbury's strategic priorities for this grant center on urban revitalization and creating a more attractive and sustainable downtown area. The theory of change is that by offering financial incentives for property enhancements, the city can stimulate private investment, which in turn leads to a cumulative positive effect on the district's economic vitality and quality of life for residents and visitors. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to foster community pride and encourage a vibrant local economy through targeted improvements that enhance both functionality and visual appeal.

The City of Wickliffe's reimbursement grant program aims to enhance the appearance of commercial storefronts for non-franchised property and business owners. This initiative directly aligns with the City's broader mission to foster economic growth and prosperity by encouraging reinvestment and restoration of commercial properties. The program is designed to improve the exterior aesthetics of commercial buildings, thereby contributing to a more vibrant and attractive business environment within Wickliffe. The primary beneficiaries of this program are commercial, non-franchised property owners and business owners within the City of Wickliffe. The program's impact goals include supporting locally-owned businesses, attracting new businesses, and retaining existing ones. By providing financial assistance for property improvements, the City seeks to create a more appealing commercial landscape that benefits both businesses and the community as a whole. The program prioritizes projects that enhance the visible aspects of commercial properties, including front exterior façades, signage, parking lots, and street-visible hardscaping. Specific focuses include new or restored front doors and windows, painting, siding, tuck pointing, awnings, outdoor cafes, company signage, seal coating or resurfacing of parking lots, and perennial plantings as part of larger hardscape projects. The maximum grant amount for parking lot funding is $1,000, and for annual plantings, it is $200. Expected outcomes include a measurable improvement in the overall aesthetics of commercial properties, increased reinvestment in the commercial sector, and enhanced economic vitality in Wickliffe. The program offers reimbursement assistance of up to 50% of total eligible project costs, with a maximum reimbursement of $10,000, ensuring that significant improvements can be undertaken. The duration of the grant is stated as more than 10 years, suggesting a long-term commitment to these strategic priorities and a theory of change that posits sustained investment in commercial aesthetics will lead to lasting economic benefits and community development.

This program provides financial assistance to employers in Austin, Texas, to implement innovative strategies that encourage employees to use alternative commuting methods and reduce traffic congestion.

The Northgate Boulevard Storefront Improvement (NBSI) Grant Program is designed to empower small business owners along the Northgate Boulevard commercial corridor by providing financial assistance for exterior property enhancements. This initiative aligns with a broader mission to foster local economic vitality and community pride. By focusing on physical improvements such as new paint, signage, lighting, windows, doors, and awnings, the program directly addresses the aesthetic and functional needs of small businesses, thereby contributing to a more vibrant and appealing commercial district. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are small, for-profit retail or service establishments with street frontage on Northgate Boulevard. These businesses must be independently and locally owned and operated, with a principal office and owners domiciled in the greater Sacramento region. Furthermore, eligible businesses must have 100 or fewer employees or earn $18 million or less in average annual gross receipts over the last three tax years. Tenants are also eligible, provided they secure property owner consent and have a current lease with at least three years remaining, or an assurance of a lease extension. The program explicitly excludes non-profit entities and franchises, ensuring its focus remains on supporting truly local and independent enterprises. The program's impact goals are multifaceted, aiming to support the retention and growth of existing businesses, deter vacancies, attract more visitors to the corridor, and spur new investment. The strategic priority is to enhance the physical appearance of storefronts, which is viewed as a catalyst for broader economic and community benefits. The theory of change posits that by improving the visual appeal and functionality of individual businesses, the entire commercial corridor will become more attractive, leading to increased foot traffic, customer spending, and business stability, ultimately contributing to a more resilient local economy. Eligible activities encompass a range of exterior improvements, including painting, installation or repair of façade elements, restoration of original architectural features, and removal of exterior clutter. Exterior security enhancements are also permitted, with the caveat that they cannot exceed 25% of the total grant award, must comply with City design standards, and be proposed in conjunction with other beautification efforts. Additionally, applicable professional service fees related to design, architectural, electrical, engineering, or construction plans (up to 25% of the award) and City/State permitting fees (up to 10% of the award) are covered. The program has a total of $200,000 available, with minimum funding requests of $5,000 and maximum requests of $15,000 per application, over a project period of one year. These measurable results, coupled with the improved physical appearance of storefronts, will indicate the program's success in achieving its stated objectives.

The Small Grant Initiative (SGI) by the Alachua County Commission aims to foster the development and growth of non-governmental, grassroots organizations and emerging small businesses within Alachua County. This program aligns with the commission's mission to support its residents, particularly those living at or below 150% of the federal poverty level. The initiative is designed to strengthen the capacity and infrastructure of these organizations, thereby enhancing their ability to serve the community effectively. The primary beneficiaries of the SGI are Alachua County residents who are economically disadvantaged. The program seeks to achieve significant impact by addressing critical community needs in areas such as safe, affordable housing, adequate food, quality healthcare, and quality childcare and education. By supporting organizations focused on these areas, the initiative intends to improve the overall quality of life and well-being for vulnerable populations within the county. The SGI prioritizes one-time capacity building or infrastructure improvements. This focus ensures that the funded projects create lasting changes that enhance the organizational effectiveness and service delivery of the grant recipients. The program is specifically interested in proposals that demonstrate a clear strategy for addressing one or more of the identified priority areas, with a maximum award limit of $15,000 for individual proposals. Expected outcomes include strengthened local organizations, improved access to essential services for low-income residents, and tangible advancements in housing, food security, healthcare, and education within Alachua County. Measurable results could include an increase in the number of individuals served by recipient organizations, improved quality or accessibility of services, and the successful completion of capacity-building projects or infrastructure upgrades. The grant period, running from October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025, provides a clear timeframe for the implementation and evaluation of these projects.

This grant provides funding to Maine-based agricultural producers, processors, and organizations to enhance the capacity and resilience of the food supply chain through the purchase of essential equipment.

This fellowship program supports entrepreneurs in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area who are developing innovative solutions for climate change mitigation, adaptation, and resilience.

This program provides financial assistance to commercial businesses and property owners along Western Avenue in Rancho Palos Verdes for visible storefront improvements to enhance the area's appearance and economic vitality.

The Storefront Improvement Program (SIP) is a discretionary reimbursement grant established by the City of Soldotna in 2012. Its primary goal is to revitalize commercial areas within Soldotna by stimulating private investment, fostering economic growth, and enhancing the overall visual appeal and vitality of the city's commercial districts. This program aligns with the City's long-range plan, Envision Soldotna 2030, specifically addressing goals such as promoting downtown development, encouraging redevelopment in key areas like the river and major highways, supporting diverse local businesses for a healthy economy, and improving the streetscape along major routes. The SIP targets property owners and business lessees within Soldotna’s commercial areas, with the aim of boosting traffic, increasing property values, and improving the city's aesthetic. The program prioritizes exterior improvements to business facades visible from the street, including elements like storefronts, windows, exterior lighting, canopies, awnings, painting, masonry work, permanent landscaping, decorative signs, and accessibility improvements. The emphasis is on transformative changes, and projects incorporating multiple elements receive greater weight during the competitive application process. Expected outcomes include a more vibrant and attractive commercial landscape, increased foot traffic for local businesses, and an uplift in property values. By sharing the cost of beautification, the program seeks to empower local business owners to invest in their properties, contributing to a more prosperous local economy. While routine upkeep, maintenance, or required updates (e.g., signage due to change in ownership) are not eligible, the program encourages proactive improvements that enhance the architectural character and functionality of commercial buildings. Measurable results could include an increase in the number of beautified storefronts, a rise in new business openings or expansions in commercial areas, and potentially an increase in sales tax revenue for the city. The program's theory of change posits that by directly incentivizing aesthetic and functional improvements to business exteriors, the city can create a more inviting environment that attracts both residents and visitors, thereby stimulating economic activity and supporting the long-term health of its commercial sectors. The competitive application process ensures that funding is directed towards high-impact projects that best align with the program's objectives.

This program provides funding to small businesses and commercial property owners in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, for improving their storefronts and interiors to boost economic growth and community revitalization.

This program provides financial assistance to businesses and property owners in Portsmouth for improving and renovating commercial spaces to enhance the local streetscape and attract more interest in the area.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to organizations training electricians in California to install electric vehicle charging infrastructure, with a focus on increasing access for disadvantaged and rural communities.

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 supports early-stage university-affiliated startups developing dual-use technologies that can benefit both commercial markets and the Department of Defense, providing funding, mentorship, and resources to help them engage with defense opportunities.

The Arizona Water Protection Fund (AWPF) is a competitive state grant program that provides funding to interested parties for the development and implementation of measures to protect water of sufficient quality and quantity to maintain, enhance, and restore river and riparian resources throughout Arizona (including projects that benefit fish and wildlife that are dependent on these important resources), and measures to increase water availability and supply. Financial Notes: Matching funds are not required to be eligible for AWPF funding; however, projects that do include matching funds typically receive higher consideration.   Administrative costs must be limited to a maximum of 5% of the total AWPF project funds requested.  Subcontractors or consultants working on your project must also conform to the 5% administrative cost limit if you are paying them out of AWPF funds.   Payments are made on a cost reimbursement basis.  Appropriate documentation (e.g., receipts, invoices, reports, data, and photographs) will be required in order to receive reimbursement.   Adequate accounting practices and record keeping will be required.

This funding opportunity provides financial assistance to counties, municipalities, tribal governments, and weed management entities in Minnesota for projects aimed at controlling and eradicating harmful noxious weeds.

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.