Workforce Development Grants

The City of Philomath's Transient Lodging Tax (TLT) Grant Program is designed to reinvest collected transient lodging taxes and other tourism-related funds into amenities and services that cater to tourists and support economic development within the City. The annual grant program provides support to organizations that align with the City’s established tourism objectives. While the program's explicit "foundation mission alignment" and "theory of change" are not detailed as separate entities, the grant program itself serves as a mechanism to achieve the city's strategic goals for tourism, acting as the operational arm of its economic development and tourism promotion strategy. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant program are verifiable non-profit organizations, service organizations, or businesses that contribute to the development and improvement of Philomath’s economy through the enhancement, expansion, and promotion of the tourism industry. Individuals are explicitly not eligible to receive funding. The overarching impact goal is to foster economic growth and improve tourism-related services and infrastructure within Philomath, ultimately benefiting both tourists and residents by enhancing the city's appeal and economic vitality. Current funding priorities dictate that 100% of the funds received through the City’s TLT and the County’s allocation to the City will be used to fund tourism promotion or tourism-related facilities. Out of these funds, 50% will be reallocated to the Tourism Grant Program, to be awarded to eligible organizations through an annual application process. The remaining 50% will be used for tourism-related projects identified in the Philomath Strategic Plan. Recipients of funding are also expected to incorporate practices of equity, inclusion, and diversity, as well as responsible stewardship of Philomath’s land, air, and waters, indicating a focus on sustainable and equitable tourism development. Expected outcomes and measurable results, while not quantified with specific metrics in the provided text, include the enhancement and expansion of the tourism industry, the promotion of Philomath as a tourist destination, and the development of tourism-related facilities. The program also aims to leverage private investment from hotels, motels, restaurants, retailers, private transport, and other tourism-related amenities and services, suggesting that a successful program will demonstrate an increase in private sector engagement and investment in tourism infrastructure. The periodic review of needs and update of priorities by the City Council indicates an adaptive strategic approach to achieve these outcomes.

The Regional Arts Commission’s Artist Support Grant provides funding for the career advancement of individual artists in St. Louis City and County, Missouri. This grant directly aligns with the foundation's mission to foster the creative life of the artist and contribute to the vibrant artistic culture of St. Louis. It is designed to be flexible, accessible, and to encourage creativity, innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustained commitment to artistic work across all artistic disciplines. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are individual artists aged 18 or older who are current residents of St. Louis City or County and have maintained primary residence for at least one year. These artists must also have created and presented their original work(s) to the public or performed for the public in the past three years. The grant's impact goals are to enable diverse artists to advance their careers, complete creative projects, and ultimately enrich the St. Louis community through culturally and artistically significant practices. The grant prioritizes proposals that demonstrate cultural and/or artistic essentials (40% weight), community benefit (30% weight), and artistic/practice capacity and sustainability (30% weight). Key focuses include the artist's clear plans, contribution to their practice, innovation in their artform, and thoughtful use of funds. Additionally, the grant emphasizes broad community benefit, considering diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, as well as the artist's ability to demonstrate community participation and connection. For capacity and sustainability, realistic budgeting, diverse revenue streams, a strong artistic resume/CV, and relevant work samples are crucial. Expected outcomes include the completion of individual artist projects, enhanced artistic skills and craft, and increased innovation in the arts. Measurable results are tied to the funding criteria, such as the provision of essential information, artist statements, proof of residency, clearly articulated plans, and descriptions of intended audiences and DEIA efforts. The budget also serves as a measurable component, requiring a realistic and balanced approach. The maximum funding an individual artist can receive is $7,500, supporting projects and needs occurring from November 2024 through May 2025.

NetWork Kansas, in partnership with K-State 105, is offering a one-time grant of $100,000 to $500,000 to support new or early-stage projects focused on entrepreneurship and small business development, with a maximum funding request of $125,000 per project and a 25% match required, open to for-profit businesses, nonprofits, community organizations, and municipalities in Kansas.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to organizations that assist socially and economically disadvantaged individuals and very small businesses in Northern Illinois, helping them access capital and improve their financial readiness through legal, accounting, and advisory services.

The Porter County Community Foundation seeks to strengthen the community through lasting generosity and leadership by offering grants for humanitarian, cultural, educational, and environmental purposes. While the foundation acknowledges the importance of general operating support for nonprofits, it prioritizes funding requests that build organizational capacity, enhance efficiency, expand successful programming, or foster cooperation and collaboration among organizations for innovative initiatives. This approach aligns with their mission to ensure long-term growth and vitality within the community by strategically investing in projects with clear, impactful goals. The foundation targets organizations serving Porter County, Indiana, with a focus on proposals that demonstrate the potential for significant community benefit. Grants are awarded through an open process, and the committee considers several factors when making difficult choices due to limited funds. These factors include support from sources other than the foundation, evidence of meaningful financial support from the organization's board, the overall financial strength of the organization, and the request's impact on enhancing the organization's capacity to better serve Porter County. Key priorities for funding include initiatives that increase organizational capacity through planning, training, and professional development (excluding recurring annual conferences), as well as projects that enhance efficiency through equipment acquisition and extraordinary expenses difficult to budget for. The foundation also prioritizes expanding successful programming to reach new audiences and facilitating cooperation and collaboration among organizations for new, innovative programming. These focuses aim to foster a stronger, more efficient, and interconnected network of community service providers. Expected outcomes include increased organizational efficiency and sustainability, improved capacity to serve Porter County residents, and the successful expansion of programs to new audiences. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed for each funding area, the foundation's emphasis on "increased efficiency and sustainability" and "capacity to better serve Porter County" implies a focus on quantifiable improvements in service delivery, outreach, and operational effectiveness. The maximum grant amount is $10,000, and the foundation generally does not fund annual appeals, event sponsorships, multi-year grants, sectarian programs, political organizations, endowment campaigns, debt reduction, individuals (except scholarships), completed programs, travel for groups, camp scholarships, or re-granting organizations.

The City of Frederick's Department of Economic Development has launched a new grant opportunity called “ACCESS GRANTED.” This initiative is designed to support small minority and women-owned businesses, both start-up and established, by providing access to capital for specific projects aimed at scaling their operations. The program aligns with the city's mission to foster a supportive and inclusive business environment, enabling entrepreneurs to achieve their full potential. The primary beneficiaries of the "ACCESS GRANTED" program are small minority and women-owned businesses within The City of Frederick limits. The impact goal is to empower these businesses by providing financial assistance that will facilitate their growth and development. This initiative aims to address the challenges these businesses face in accessing capital, thereby contributing to a more equitable and robust local economy. The program prioritizes small minority and/or women-owned businesses that are physically located within The City of Frederick limits. Eligibility criteria include being a registered for-profit business, being in good standing in the state of Maryland, and having no more than 25 full-time equivalent employees. These criteria ensure that the funding reaches businesses that are genuinely in need of support and are poised for growth within the city. The City of Frederick has earmarked $400,000 for this program, with individual grant sizes ranging from $100,000 to $500,000. The expected outcome is a tangible increase in the capacity and scalability of participating businesses, leading to job creation, economic growth, and enhanced community vibrancy. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the financial allocation, the program's success will likely be evaluated by the number of businesses supported, the scale of projects undertaken, and the overall economic impact on the community.

The Main Street Micro Business Startup Grant Program, funded by Main Street Oakland County and Genisys Credit Union, offers grants between $1000 to $10,000 to support the creation, relocation, or expansion of small businesses in specific Main Street Districts, covering costs such as location renovations, rent assistance, equipment purchases, and other relevant expenses.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations in Erie County, Ohio, to address community needs in areas such as job training, mental health, childcare, and access to healthy food.

The City of Augusta allocates funding to the Greater Augusta Arts Council (GAAC) to distribute to the non-profit arts community through the FY25 Annual City Arts Grant Program. This program aligns with the city's mission to sustain a wide variety of artistic disciplines and expressions, recognizing the importance of public financial support for the arts. The GAAC acts as the primary donor, ensuring that funds reach eligible non-profit arts organizations within Richmond County, Georgia. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are non-profit organizations dedicated to the performance, exhibition, and/or presentation of arts and cultural programming within the Augusta-Richmond County community. These organizations must have a mission statement reflecting their focus on arts and culture, be a 501(c)3 non-profit for at least one year, and have a physical headquarters in Richmond County. The program's impact goals are multifaceted: to provide programming and educational opportunities, promote Metro Augusta as a cultural destination, build the capacity and stability of Augusta's arts organizations, and enhance the city's economic development through the arts. For fiscal year 2025, the program prioritizes funding for General Operating Expenses, with up to $7,000 available, and specific Art Projects, with up to $5,000 available. This dual approach allows for both the sustained operation of arts organizations and the execution of distinct artistic endeavors. Organizations are expected to demonstrate excellence in programming, provide accessible programs to the general public, consider the community's diversity, and articulate strategies for inclusiveness in their operations and programming. Expected outcomes include a more vibrant arts and cultural scene in Augusta-Richmond County, increased engagement from diverse community members, and a stronger economic impact derived from the arts. Measurable results would likely involve tracking the number of programs offered, audience attendance, the reach of educational opportunities, and the economic contributions of funded projects. The GAAC's strategic priority, in alignment with the City of Augusta, is to foster a thriving arts community that enriches the lives of its citizens and enhances the city's overall cultural and economic landscape. The theory of change suggests that by providing financial support to qualified arts organizations, the city can achieve these broad community and economic development objectives.

The **Mardag Foundation** is now accepting applications for its **2024 Grant Program**, supporting organizations that promote equity, strengthen communities, and improve quality of life for Minnesotans. Rooted in collaboration and racial equity, the foundation’s approach emphasizes community-informed work that empowers marginalized populations and fosters lasting, inclusive change. Grant funding is available to organizations serving residents in **Greater Minnesota** and the **East Metro counties of Dakota, Ramsey, and Washington**. The foundation’s giving focuses on three primary areas. The first is **improving the lives of low-income children, youth, and families** who face barriers to opportunity. Priority is given to organizations serving marginalized communities—especially Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC)—and addressing intersections of education, mental health, basic needs, employment pathways, healthcare access, and housing stability. Projects that eliminate inequities and expand equitable opportunities for youth and families are especially encouraged to apply. The second focus area supports **older adults who face isolation, financial hardship, or barriers to full participation in community life**. Funding will prioritize organizations serving low-income older Minnesotans, particularly those who are also members of marginalized groups such as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ individuals, or people with disabilities. Grants may support efforts to meet basic needs, improve caregiving quality, promote mental health, reduce isolation, and enable aging in place through stable and safe housing. The foundation also welcomes programs fostering **intergenerational connections**, which enrich both older adults and younger participants through shared experiences. The third priority is **strengthening community vitality through arts and culture**. The Mardag Foundation believes that the arts play a vital role in honoring diverse cultures and fostering shared understanding. Funding will support arts and culture organizations that elevate underrepresented voices and amplify the creative contributions of BIPOC, low-income, disabled, and LGBTQIA+ communities. Through these efforts, the foundation aims to build stronger, more connected, and culturally vibrant communities across Minnesota. The foundation offers two types of grants: **General Operating Support** and **Capital Project grants**. General operating grants provide flexible funding to nonprofits that serve at least 50% of their beneficiaries in the East Metro or Greater Minnesota. Capital grants support facility improvements or equipment purchases for projects based in these same regions, typically distributed over multiple years. Eligible applicants include **501(c)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, government agencies, and religious organizations**. Preference is given to entities whose work is led or informed by the people most affected by the issues they address. The Mardag Foundation does not fund organizations using fiscal sponsors, those exclusively serving Minneapolis or the West Metro, scholarships, sectarian programs, or large-scale capital campaigns for private schools or universities. By focusing its support on community-led efforts that address inequality and strengthen social infrastructure, the foundation continues its mission of advancing opportunity, dignity, and well-being for all Minnesotans—especially those facing the greatest barriers to success.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to academic institutions for training and research in occupational safety and health, aiming to develop a skilled workforce to address workplace health issues.

The "Promoting a Just Transition for All Workers" grant is currently being developed to support fair changes in the workforce, with updates and further details to be provided via the Grants.gov subscription service.

This program provides financial assistance to developers for constructing new housing in Iowa cities affected by recent disasters, focusing on permanent residences for sale or rent.

The 2025 Sharing Prince George Grants, announced by The Greater Washington Community Foundation, aim to support high-impact nonprofits serving Prince George’s County’s most vulnerable residents. This initiative aligns with the Community Foundation’s broader 10-year strategic plan, which is centered on addressing urgent community needs, advancing economic justice, and ultimately closing the racial/ethnic wealth gap. The fund prides itself on supporting organizations that have effectively responded to community needs, working in partnership toward a shared vision for a more equitable, just, and thriving Prince George’s County, directly reflecting the foundation's mission. The target beneficiaries are the low-income and most vulnerable residents of Prince George’s County. The grant program seeks to achieve significant impact by enabling people to chart pathways out of poverty and empowering them with the financial and social capital needed to build wealth. The ultimate goal is to enhance the health and stability of the entire community by mitigating the effects of the racial/ethnic wealth gap, fostering economic justice, and ensuring basic needs are met. The grant-making priorities for this year are threefold. First, economic mobility resources are prioritized, including access to higher education, training, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy. Second, the program focuses on individual and community wealth-building opportunities to help residents weather crises and pursue their dreams. Third, basic needs for low-income neighbors are addressed, encompassing access to health and mental health resources, food security, affordable housing, childcare, education, and interventions that facilitate a transition from crisis to recovery. For the FY25 cycle, Sharing Prince George’s will award up to ten one-time grants, each up to $50,000. These grants provide flexible general operating support, allowing nonprofits to allocate resources where they are most needed to advance their missions within Prince George’s County. Regional organizations receiving grants will have their funds specifically earmarked for efforts within the county, ensuring the direct impact on the intended beneficiaries and contributing to the foundation's strategic objective of fostering a more equitable and stable community.

The United Way Grant Program, spearheaded by the United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike Counties, aims to improve the quality of life for residents in Lackawanna, Wayne, and surrounding communities. The program is deeply aligned with the foundation's broader mission to serve as a catalyst for community problem-solving and to conduct efficient fundraising efforts to address compelling social problems. Specifically, it focuses on promoting quality education leading to graduation, stable employment, and sufficient income, while also advocating for good physical and mental health and a strong safety net during crises. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant program are non-profit, 501(c)(3) health and human service organizations that provide in-person, direct services within Wayne County. These organizations, in turn, serve the residents of Wayne and Pike Counties by supporting services specifically designed for them. The overarching impact goals are centered on achieving financial stability for families, ensuring access to quality education, fostering overall well-being, and building community resilience. The program's priorities and focus areas are broad, encompassing existing programs, new initiatives, program expansion, and even capital items, as long as they align with the United Way's mission. The emphasis is on addressing critical social challenges and improving outcomes in areas such as education, income stability, and health. The funds are a direct result of campaigns supported by individuals, businesses, and foundations dedicated to aiding Wayne and/or Pike County residents. Expected outcomes include an improvement in educational attainment, increased rates of stable employment and sufficient income for families, enhanced physical and mental health outcomes, and the establishment of robust safety nets for communities in times of crisis. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the general improvements in quality of life, the program's structure implies that the success will be evaluated through the direct services provided by the funded organizations and their impact on the target populations. The strategic priorities revolve around community problem-solving and effective resource allocation, operating under a theory of change that posits that by investing in key areas like education, health, and financial stability, the overall well-being and resilience of the community will be significantly improved. The grant sizes, ranging from $500 to $4,000 for individual grants to organizations, reflect a commitment to supporting a variety of initiatives that contribute to these comprehensive goals.

This funding opportunity supports innovative projects in Virginia Beach that aim to prevent and end homelessness by providing essential services like financial assistance, case management, and housing support for vulnerable individuals and families.

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 grant provides up to $3,000 in services and training to support small businesses in Bucks County that have been negatively impacted by the pandemic, with a focus on Veteran-owned, Minority-owned, and Woman-owned enterprises.

This grant provides financial support to artists in specific Minnesota counties to help them advance their careers through various projects, training, and creative endeavors.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations and government entities that help Jefferson County residents improve their job skills and secure better-paying employment to enhance economic stability.