Local Grants

The Chelsea Neighborhood Market & Food Business Grant Program aims to bolster the local food economy in Chelsea, MA, in response to increased food insecurity and economic turbulence exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds, the program provides $100,000 over three years to support Chelsea residents who are first-time entrepreneurs and food business owners interested in becoming vendors at Chelsea Neighborhood Market. The market, intended to create entrepreneurial opportunities and expand food retail options, will be located near residential areas and accessible by public transport. Eligibility is determined based on residency in Chelsea, operation or intention to operate a Chelsea-based food business, and a commitment to being a market vendor for at least three months. APPLY BY APRIL 9, 2024 FOR FIRST CONSIDERATION. APPLICATIONS ARE ACCEPTED ON A ROLLING BASIS UNTIL FUNDING IS EXPENDED.

Capacity Building Grant Program Overview: The Capacity Building Grant Program is a biennial initiative alternating with the Special Projects Grant Program. The fiscal year 2025 (FY25) Building Capacity grant application period commences on April 2, 2024. Purpose: The Arts & Culture Capacity Building Grant Program aims to provide funding for initiatives fostering sustainable and efficient organizational development. Eligible organizations can request grants of up to $8,000 to support capacity-building endeavors. Definition of Capacity Building: As per the National Council of Nonprofits, capacity building encompasses activities essential for elevating a nonprofit's operational, programmatic, financial, or organizational maturity. It's a continuous improvement strategy geared towards establishing sustainable and effective organizations. Examples of Capacity-Building Initiatives: Strategic planning Development of fundraising strategies Marketing/communications enhancements Improvements in donor experience Nonprofit 101 training for staff/board members Leadership development Project/program development and management Volunteer management Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion (DEAI) training Eligibility Requirements: Eligible Applicants: Arts and culture organizations meeting grant guidelines Nonprofit 501(c)(3) entities with at least two years of programming documentation and two Form 990s Official business address within Dubuque city limits Service provision to Dubuque residents within city limits Clean compliance record and good standing with City of Dubuque’s Arts and Culture Grant Program(s) Ineligible Applicants: For-profit entities, businesses, or sole proprietors Educational institutions (K-12 schools, colleges, universities, community colleges) City of Dubuque government departments/entities Individual artists Non-arts and culture nonprofits (e.g., social service, religious institutions) Organizations with delinquent City of Dubuque Arts and Culture Grant Program Final Reports Fiscal agent/sponsor usage is prohibited Funding Guidelines and Timeline: Funding Guidelines: Grant requests ranging from $4,000 to $8,000 accepted Requests below $4,000 will not be considered 1:1 cash match required; personnel time ineligible for cash match FY25 Grant Timeline: April 2, 2024: Informational webinar available; online application opens May 10, 2024, by 11:59 p.m.: Grant applications due via Slideroom July 9, 2024: Award notification August 2024: Anticipated fund disbursement Application Process: Applications submitted via SlideRoom, exclusively through the online portal Deadline for FY25 applications: May 10, 2024, by 11:59 p.m. Late, incomplete, or ineligible applications will not be considered Resources:

The City of Marion has established a Hotel/Motel Grant Program funded by a seven percent room tax on overnight stays. This program redistributes these funds through the annual budget process and grants to organizations that aim to boost tourism in Marion. Eligible entities are those working towards increasing local tourism, including City of Marion events, commissions, and partners, which receive allocations during the annual budget process and do not require separate grant applications. A committee assesses applications to recommend funding allocations to the council. Funds are granted for the fiscal year only, with unclaimed funds reverting to the Hotel/Motel Fund. Marion City Council has budgeted $50,000 for the Hotel/Motel Grant Program for FY24-25. The grant application process will open on Tuesday, April 2, 2024. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual opening: April

This funding opportunity provides financial support to various organizations in Denver that are working to reduce fossil fuel transportation and promote cleaner travel options to help combat climate change.

The Jonathan and Barbara Silver Foundation (JBSF) grant program aims to foster and support both emerging and established sculptors, as well as writers who engage with sculpture. The foundation's mission is directly aligned with encouraging fresh perspectives and critical thinking on the history, aesthetics, purposes, imagination, or situation of sculpture. This commitment is reflected in its alternating grant cycle, supporting writing in even years and sculpture in odd years, demonstrating a holistic approach to the art form and its intellectual discourse. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are individual writers who are citizens or permanent residents of the United States, or hold an O-1 Visa, and have had at least one piece of writing published for the first time within the last five years. The program specifically targets those generating new writing and thinking on sculpture, with supported categories including magazine, catalogue, and book essays, as well as research or manuscripts for books currently in process or nearing completion. The impact goals are to cultivate new scholarly and creative works that enrich the understanding and appreciation of sculpture. The program prioritizes writing that demonstrates strength and relevance to project proposals, accepting up to three published writing samples, with a maximum length of 2,500 words per sample. Emphasis is placed on original, independently produced work, excluding pre-publication material, collaborative writing, news reporting, social media posts, essays on one's own art, and student publications. This focus ensures that the grant supports independent thought and high-quality, impactful scholarship and criticism. The expected outcomes include the completion and publication of insightful essays and books on sculpture, contributing to the broader academic and artistic discourse. Measurable results would be the successful publication of works funded by the grant and the continued development of the grantees' careers. The JBSF offers one $20,000 grant per year, enabling writers to dedicate time to their projects by covering eligible expenses such as writer’s fees, research travel, living expenses (including childcare), image permission fees, reproduction costs, and editing, transcription, or translation expenses. The foundation's strategic priorities are to provide direct financial support that enables deep engagement with sculptural themes, fostering an environment where critical and creative exploration can thrive. Their theory of change posits that by investing in individual writers, they can stimulate intellectual growth and contribute to a richer public understanding of sculpture's multifaceted roles and meanings. This direct support for individuals, coupled with clear guidelines on eligible and ineligible expenses, ensures that the funding directly facilitates the creation of new works that align with the foundation's mission.

The City of Germantown's Neighborhood Grants Program aims to empower neighborhood leaders by supporting projects that foster community engagement, beautify surroundings, improve resident communications, and enhance well-being. This program directly aligns with a broader mission to strengthen local communities by providing resources to homeowner and neighborhood associations. It serves as a strategic initiative to cultivate active, connected, and well-maintained neighborhoods, reflecting a theory of change where targeted financial support for community-led projects leads to tangible improvements in quality of life and a heightened sense of belonging among residents. The primary beneficiaries of this program are Germantown homeowner and neighborhood associations, along with their constituents. The impact goals are multi-faceted, focusing on increasing neighborly interaction, improving the aesthetics and functionality of public spaces, enhancing communication channels within neighborhoods, and promoting a greater sense of safety and collective well-being. The program's strategic priority is to empower these local organizations to take ownership of community development, leveraging their intimate understanding of neighborhood needs to drive meaningful change. The program prioritizes projects falling into four key categories: Engagement, Communications, Beautification, and Safety. Engagement projects aim to bring neighbors together for social and recreational activities, such as block parties and movie nights. Communications projects focus on strengthening neighborhood organizations through initiatives like website development and newsletters. Beautification projects seek to enhance public areas with holiday decorations, landscaping, and art. Safety projects are designed to increase well-being through events like Germantown Night Out, seminars, and safety awareness campaigns. Expected outcomes include a more vibrant and connected community life, more effective neighborhood organizations, visually appealing and well-maintained public spaces, and a measurable increase in residents' sense of safety and well-being. The program anticipates awarding two maximum grants of $5,000 each per period, with additional microgrants ranging from $500 to $1,000, totaling $25,000 per fiscal year. Measurable results will be gauged through the documentation of events with photos and sign-in sheets, the provision of receipts for all expenditures, and the overall completion of approved projects by the June 30, 2025, deadline.

The Town of Avon offers the Support for Community Events Grant Program to provide financial aid to local festivals, special events, and community programs that deliver recreational or cultural opportunities and promote the town. The program gives special attention to events that enhance the attractiveness of Avon as a place to visit or live, celebrate local heritage, and enrich quality of life. Grant awards are capped at 25 percent of the event budget or 7,500 dollars, whichever is less. The funding window covers events occurring between July 1, 2024 and October 31, 2024. Preference is given to purchases or services that protect public health, safety, and welfare, such as emergency medical services, sanitation, lighting, security, and transportation. Eligible applicants must be tax exempt organizations under a 501(c) category and events must be held within town limits. Events must be free and open to the public, not financially dependent on town support, and not organized as for profit ventures. Funds may not support regular operating costs, and only one grant will be awarded per event. Applications are due May 3, 2024. Additional information is available from the Town of Avon.

The Town of Carrboro administers the Green Neighborhood Grant Program to support resident led projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance ecosystem resilience, and benefit the community. The program seeks to educate and empower neighborhoods, build capacity for climate action, strengthen partnerships, leverage town and neighborhood resources, and direct resources to low income communities and communities of color disproportionately affected by climate change. Projects must demonstrate shared benefits and aim to reduce emissions, improve ecosystem resilience, or increase climate action awareness and engagement. Projects must be initiated, planned, and implemented by community members, completed within six months of award, and comply with permitting and insurance requirements as applicable. The maximum grant amount is 2,500 dollars. Eligible applicants are neighborhoods located within Carrboro’s town limits. Applicants may apply for funding in two consecutive cycles, and those not previously funded may receive feedback to strengthen future applications. Contractors must carry required insurance and groups may be asked to obtain liability insurance when necessary. Applications are due May 1, 2024 through the town’s process. Funding duration beyond the six month completion requirement is not stated. Official information is available from the Town of Carrboro.

The Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center (NE-DBIC) has launched the Goat and Sheep Dairy Development Grant program to bolster the Northeast goat and sheep dairy sector. This initiative aligns with the NE-DBIC's broader mission to strengthen regional dairy industries by addressing critical areas such as business viability, market development, and innovative production methods. The program aims to enhance the growth and long-term viability of individual small ruminant businesses, while also tackling gaps in technical assistance, improving supply chain partnerships, and expanding market access. The program targets several beneficiaries, including dairy farmers (producers) currently or transitioning to producing goat or sheep milk, dairy processors transforming raw goat/sheep milk into edible products, dairy producer associations representing and promoting goat/sheep dairy products, and technical assistance providers working with these groups. The impact goals are to foster growth, increase profitability, improve herd/flock health and milk quality, reduce barriers to new markets, and expand distribution opportunities for goat/sheep dairy products within the Northeast region. The grant program focuses on two main project types: Individual Business Projects and Sector Enhancement Projects. Individual Business Projects support farmers and processors in making improvements to increase business viability, market development, or production innovations. Examples include engaging with technical assistance providers for business improvements, diversification and marketing efforts, research and development of innovative solutions, and purchasing specialized dairy equipment. Sector Enhancement Projects are designed to engage multiple dairy businesses in activities that improve or expand small ruminant production practices or dairy markets, strengthening relationships across the goat/sheep dairy supply chain. Examples include developing tools and resources, improving farmer access to resources, and initial investments to strengthen supply chain relationships. Funding priorities emphasize projects that address at least two of the following: developing resources to fill unmet technical assistance needs, increasing pay price for goat/sheep dairy farmers, producing deliverables for new or transitioning dairy farmers, including educational/information sharing components, fostering collaborative efforts, increasing profits for dairy businesses, improving herd/flock health/nutrition/milk quality, reducing barriers to new markets, developing market channels, and implementing innovative strategies to increase awareness and consumption of goat/sheep dairy products. The program's theory of change appears to be that by investing in these specific areas, both individual businesses and the sector as a whole will experience sustainable growth and increased competitiveness. Individual business grants range from $15,000 to $50,000, requiring a 25% cash and/or in-kind match commitment. Supply chain projects are eligible for grants between $25,000 and $75,000, also with a 25% match commitment. A total of $760,000 is available for this program. The expected outcomes include a more robust and resilient goat and sheep dairy sector in the Northeast, with enhanced business viability for producers and processors, expanded market reach for their products, and a stronger, more collaborative supply chain. The grant period for projects is between 8 and 12 months.

The City of Port St. Lucie, in partnership with the Florida Small Business Development Center at Indian River State College, launched the COVID-19 Small Business Grant Program to financially support businesses affected by the pandemic. This program serves as a reimbursement grant, providing up to $10,000 for business-related expenses such as mortgage, rent, utilities, insurance, reopening costs, safety measures, and payroll during closures. The initiative is funded by FloridaCommerce through its Community Development Block Grant Coronavirus Program, demonstrating a commitment to economic recovery and stability within the community. The program primarily targets small businesses with 0-50 employees that were in operation before March 1, 2020, and have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. A key focus is on businesses located within qualified low-to-moderate-income Census Tracts (QCTs) or owned by individuals whose household income qualifies as low or moderate. This targeting aligns with a broader mission of supporting vulnerable populations and fostering equitable economic recovery within the city. Prioritization is given to applications from small businesses that have not previously received COVID-19 relief funding, ensuring that support reaches those most in need of assistance. The program aims to mitigate the financial strain caused by the pandemic, allowing businesses to cover essential operating costs and implement necessary safety measures. The emphasis on current tax status and registration with the Florida Division of Corporations underscores a commitment to supporting legitimate and compliant businesses. With a total of $390,000 initially available, and approximately $165,000 remaining after 23 approved applicants as of mid-March, the program has already made a significant impact. Expected outcomes include the sustained operation of small businesses, retention of employment, and a more resilient local economy. By providing direct financial relief, the grant contributes to the overall stability and recovery of Port St. Lucie's small business sector, particularly in its low-to-moderate-income areas.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to municipalities and qualified charitable conservancies in Morris County, New Jersey, for the acquisition and preservation of open space and recreational areas.

The Lexington Fayette Urban County Government offers the Neighborhood Stormwater Quality Projects Incentive Grant Program to assist property owners, businesses, and organizations in implementing projects that improve water quality through innovation and education in Fayette County, Kentucky. The program is funded by the Water Quality Management Fee and administered by the Division of Water Quality. Projects must address at least one objective, including improving water quality in impaired streams, addressing stormwater on existing or developing parcels, reducing stormwater runoff and flooding, or providing public or private education on water quality. Examples include storm drain marking, stream cleanups, riparian planting, agricultural fencing, tree canopy expansion, rain barrels or rain gardens, educational seminars, and retention pond enhancements. Projects may be funded up to 120,000 dollars with a required 20 percent cost share in cash or in kind; the maximum grant award is 45,000 dollars. Eligible expenses include materials and supplies, rental equipment, consulting fees, construction costs, teacher stipends, and permitting fees. The grant period runs from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. Eligible applicants are incorporated neighborhood, community, and homeowner associations with a roster of elected officers. Applications are due May 3, 2024. Additional information is available from the Lexington Fayette Urban County Government.

The Naturally Lewis Building Business Fund aims to support business growth in Lewis County by providing matching funds for businesses to acquire necessary tools, both literal (equipment/machinery) and figurative (business services/professional services). This initiative is designed to bolster the local economy by facilitating the expansion or diversification of businesses, with an emphasis on projects that demonstrate a clear benefit to the community, including economic development, job creation, introduction of new products or services, and enhancement of cultural or recreational opportunities. Eligible projects may involve equipment, machinery, working capital, training, and workforce development, but cannot include construction or capital improvements. Applications open on July 1, 2024, with a deadline of September 26, 2024. Grant awards range from $10,000 to $50,000.

This program provides financial support to retail, service, and restaurant businesses in East Haddam and Haddam to help them recover from revenue losses caused by local construction disruptions.

This grant provides financial support to organizations hosting family-friendly events in Downtown Hagerstown to strengthen community ties and stimulate the local economy.

The Charlevoix County Community Foundation invites applications to its Community Priorities Grant cycle to enhance quality of life for residents of Charlevoix County, Michigan. The cycle offers eligible nonprofit partners and public entities an opportunity to seek support for projects and programs addressing local needs, and donor advisors may also recommend grants through the cycle. Proposals are evaluated for organizational impact and relevance, leadership and capacity, financial solvency, the extent to which funds strengthen the organization or the community served, the comprehensiveness of planning and proposed activities, and the expected duration of impact. The program is intended to reach a variety of needs in the county. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, units of government, and educational institutions from preschool through college that serve Charlevoix County residents and do not discriminate in hiring or service provision. Grant size and duration are not stated in the description. Applications are due May 1, 2024 through the foundation’s process. Applicants should consult the Community Foundation for official details and submission instructions.

The City of Evanston's Small Business Recovery Program is designed to safeguard the local small business economy and preserve the city's economic and cultural fabric. While not explicitly a foundation, the City of Evanston's mission alignment with this program is evident in its commitment to supporting the independent businesses that define the city's identity. This initiative directly addresses the sustained negative economic impacts of the pandemic on these vital businesses. The program primarily targets existing small, independently owned brick-and-mortar businesses in Evanston, particularly focusing on minority, disadvantaged, and veteran-owned enterprises. To be eligible, businesses must have been operating on or before March 13, 2020, possess a physical Evanston location with proper registration/licensing, and have 50 or fewer employees. The overarching impact goal is to facilitate recovery from the pandemic's economic downturn, ensuring these businesses can continue to operate and contribute to the community. The program prioritizes a range of services and expenses to achieve its goals. These include facade improvements, rehabilitation/renovation of commercial properties, signage, professional services (accounting, tax, insurance, legal), marketing/communications technical assistance, capital expenditures (tools and equipment), training and certifications, relocation/expansion within Evanston (for qualified census tracts), and hiring/training of new employees. The maximum grant amount per applicant is $25,000, with other eligible expenses capped at $10,000. Priority will be given to M/W/D/EBE businesses or those located in qualified census tracts if applications exceed available funding. The expected outcomes include the revitalization of small businesses, job retention and creation, and an overall strengthening of Evanston's local economy. Measurable results will likely stem from the types of expenses funded, such as improved business appearance, enhanced operational efficiency through new equipment, increased marketing reach, and expanded workforces. The City's strategic priority is to prevent business closures and stimulate economic growth post-pandemic, operating on the theory that direct financial and technical assistance to vulnerable small businesses is the most effective way to achieve a resilient local economy and maintain its unique cultural identity.

The City of Burien offers the Burien Neighborhood Grants Program to support resident initiated projects that improve quality of life, build community, and create lasting public benefits. The program encourages participation from youth groups, neighborhood associations, and informal groups of neighbors. The city may provide up to 5,000 dollars per project, to be matched by volunteer labor, donated materials, professional services, or additional funds. Eligible projects include tree planting and maintenance, minor park or trailhead improvements, environmental or sustainability projects, public amenities such as benches or markers, and community based events that foster neighbor connections. Projects must be designed for low maintenance and provide broad public access and benefit. Projects must be located within Burien city limits and involve at least two residents from separate households. Applicants must demonstrate neighborhood support, obtain approvals from adjacent property owners as needed, involve residents in all phases, and meet project completion timelines and permitting requirements. Projects must be on publicly accessed property and be free and open to the public. Applications are due May 1, 2024. Grant duration is not stated. Additional information is available from the City of Burien.

The City of Evanston's "Sustain Evanston" Incentive Program is a funding tool designed to empower small business owners to implement sustainability measures. This initiative directly aligns with the City’s Climate Action & Resilience Plan, serving the foundational mission of fostering a more sustainable community. By offering financial assistance, the program aims to reduce operating costs for businesses while simultaneously enhancing their service to customers through environmentally friendly practices. This strategic alignment underscores the city's commitment to both economic vitality and ecological responsibility. The primary beneficiaries of this program include commercial property owners, tenants of commercial buildings, business districts, and coalitions of businesses within the City of Evanston. The impact goals are centered on improving the environmental footprint of local businesses, promoting sustainable infrastructure, and encouraging eco-conscious operations. Through these efforts, the program seeks to create a more resilient and environmentally sound local economy, benefiting both businesses and residents. The program prioritizes a broad range of sustainability measures, categorized into capital projects, equipment, services, and education materials. Key focuses include the adoption of heat pumps, EV charging infrastructure, solar PV, waste collection enclosures, green infrastructure like green roofs, and energy-efficient upgrades such as insulation and windows. Equipment priorities involve reusable containers, energy-efficient lighting, and appliances. Services like composting, recycling, energy/water benchmarking, and consulting are also emphasized, alongside educational signage and labels. These priorities reflect a holistic approach to sustainability, addressing various facets of business operations. Expected outcomes include a significant reduction in the operational costs for participating businesses due to increased energy efficiency and waste reduction. Measurable results will likely involve the number of businesses implementing sustainable upgrades, the amount of energy saved, the volume of waste diverted from landfills, and the expansion of green infrastructure within the city. The program's strategic approach is to incentivize tangible changes that collectively contribute to the City’s broader Climate Action & Resilience Plan, acting as a catalyst for widespread sustainable practices within the business community. This aligns with a theory of change where financial incentives drive behavioral and infrastructure changes, leading to a more sustainable and resilient urban environment.

This program provides financial assistance to new small businesses in Evanston, helping them cover essential operating costs and equipment expenses to foster job creation and sustainability.