Pennsylvania Business and Commerce Grants

This program provides funding to local governments, nonprofits, and community organizations in Pennsylvania to support various projects that revitalize neighborhoods, enhance community livability, and stimulate economic growth.

This program provides funding to support projects that promote business retention, expansion, and attraction by marketing the state as an investment destination and highlighting regional assets.

The Northeast SARE Professional Development Grant program aims to advance sustainable agriculture practices by enhancing the knowledge, awareness, skills, and attitudes of agricultural and other service providers. This directly aligns with the foundation's mission to support sustainable agriculture through education and professional development. The grant focuses on empowering professionals who work with farmers, enabling them to teach, advise, or assist in the adoption of sustainable methods. The program seeks to create a ripple effect, where trained service providers then apply their learned expertise to help farmers improve their agricultural practices, fostering a more sustainable food system within the Northeast region. The primary beneficiaries of this program are agricultural service providers, including those in non-profit organizations, colleges, universities, Cooperative Extension, and other entities that serve the farming community. Additionally, the program extends its reach to other service providers such as real estate agents, bankers, and attorneys, who can indirectly influence farmers. The overarching impact goal is to cultivate a more resilient and sustainable agricultural landscape in the Northeast by equipping these professionals with the necessary tools and knowledge. Expected outcomes include increased adoption of sustainable and climate-smart agricultural practices by farmers, improved ecological and economic resilience to climate change, and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. The program prioritizes a wide array of topics, encompassing marketing and business, crop production, raising livestock, aquaculture, social sustainability, urban and Indigenous agriculture, and traditional ecological knowledge. A significant focus is placed on climate-smart agriculture practices, which are intended to improve ecological, social, and economic resilience to climate change. This includes practices such as reduced and no-till farming, cover cropping, prescribed grazing, ruminant feed management, manure management, fertilizer management, and on-farm energy efficiency. The program's strategic priorities are clearly aligned with addressing contemporary agricultural challenges through education and practical application. Northeast SARE actively encourages projects from, or in collaboration with, women, the LGBTQIA+ community, and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). Furthermore, it encourages proposals from Minority Serving Institutions and other organizations in the Northeast that work with historically underserved communities, demonstrating a commitment to equity and inclusivity in agricultural development. The theory of change behind these priorities is that by supporting a diverse range of voices and institutions, the program can foster more innovative and equitable solutions for sustainable agriculture, leading to broader and more effective adoption of sustainable practices across the region. The expected measurable results include an increase in the number of service providers trained in sustainable agriculture, a documented increase in farmers adopting climate-smart practices, and the successful implementation of projects that demonstrate improved ecological, social, and economic resilience. Awards typically range from $30,000 to $150,000, with project lengths usually spanning 2 to 3 years, and a maximum allowed duration of 3.5 years. The program's geographical focus is exclusively on the Northeast region, which includes Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, West Virginia, Vermont, and Washington, D.C., ensuring targeted and localized impact within this specific area.

The EQT Foundation Grant program is designed to support nonprofits that demonstrate positive, needed, and trusted impacts within their communities. The foundation is deeply committed to fostering education and training for both children and adults, developing diverse and livable communities, and preserving natural environments. This mission aligns with their belief in meaningful community engagement and responsible corporate citizenship, emphasizing trust-based philanthropy to ensure resources directly contribute to community stability and, in turn, support successful business operations in their operational footprint. The foundation's funding strategy prioritizes organizations and programs that directly impact community residents. They seek proposals grounded in analysis that demonstrate creative approaches to addressing critical issues. The target beneficiaries include children and adults receiving education and training, residents of diverse and livable communities, and those benefiting from natural environment preservation efforts. The impact goals revolve around creating positive and needed change, fostering community stability, and contributing to the overall well-being of the areas where EQT Corporation operates. The EQT Foundation focuses on three core areas: Community Enrichment, Education & Workforce, and Environment. Community Enrichment encourages the development of diverse, safe, healthy, and sustainable communities, with examples ranging from food banks and libraries to arts programs and community festivals. Education & Workforce aims to promote STEM proficiency for youth and create a skilled future workforce through initiatives like in-school STEM curricula, computer camps, and career planning. The Environment focus supports natural resource preservation and educates communities on conservation techniques, including community gardens, watershed conservation, and green space restoration. Beyond these thematic priorities, the EQT Foundation also seeks evidence of a geographic setting that aligns with EQT Corporation’s business locations, effective management of available resources, and outreach that garners solid public recognition and support for the nonprofit, its programs, and sponsors. While specific expected outcomes and measurable results are not detailed, the emphasis on "positive, needed, and trusted impacts" and "creative approaches to addressing critical issues" suggests a commitment to tangible community benefits. The foundation's theory of change appears to be that by strategically investing in education, community development, and environmental preservation in their operational areas, they contribute to the long-term stability and success of these communities, which in turn supports their business operations.

The 2024 BLOOM Grant Program aims to support small businesses in York County, Pennsylvania, by providing grants to improve productivity, expand services, or enhance their operations. Eligible applicants must be for-profit businesses located in York County, have generated revenue as of January 1, 2024, and employ no more than 50 full or part-time employees. Grants, ranging from $500 to $1,500, are intended for tangible business improvements such as renovations, equipment upgrades, and marketing expenses. Funds must be utilized within six months, and applicants must match 10% of the grant's capital value. Priority is given to businesses that have not previously received a BLOOM grant, as well as those owned by women, veterans, and Black, Indigenous, or People of Color.

This program provides $145 million in financial assistance to hospitality businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic through county-established grant programs.

The City of Philadelphia Department of Commerce offers the PHL Made Grant to support manufacturing companies located in Philadelphia and to promote innovation in the sector. The program provides matching grants to help companies improve operations, increase efficiency, and bring new products to market. Applicants may request up to 30,000 dollars in matching funds. Consideration is given to clear plans for use of funds, job creation or retention with a commitment to hiring Philadelphia residents, and the introduction of new products or improved processes. Past awardees may apply if they have not received more than 10,000 dollars in PHL Made Grant funds during the prior three years. Eligible applicants must be manufacturing companies located in Philadelphia, in operation for at least one year, and able to provide matching funds. The program welcomes applications from companies producing consumer goods, industrial goods, and medical devices, among other manufactured products. Applications are due May 4, 2024. Additional information is available from the City of Philadelphia Department of Commerce.

The Somerset County Tourism Grant Program, funded by GO Laurel Highlands, offers grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 to nonprofit or for-profit businesses in the tourism and hospitality industry in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, for marketing initiatives and visitor center operations aimed at boosting tourism and overnight stays in the region.

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is offering Alternative Fuels Incentive Grants (AFIG) with approximately $5 million in funding. This program aims to support school districts, municipalities, nonprofit organizations, and businesses in Pennsylvania in their transition to cleaner fuel transportation. The grant's mission aligns with environmental protection efforts by promoting the adoption of alternative fuels such as electricity, compressed natural gas, liquefied natural gas, propane, hydrogen, hythane, biodiesel, ethanol, methanol, and other advanced biofuels, ultimately working towards reducing emissions and improving air quality. The AFIG program targets a broad range of beneficiaries across Pennsylvania, including public and private entities. Specific eligible organizations include counties, townships, municipalities, municipal authorities, public school districts (including charter schools), 501(c)3 organizations providing services to vulnerable populations (seniors, low-income individuals and families, individuals with disabilities, veterans, or medical services), businesses registered as Small Diverse Businesses with the Commonwealth, and county/local government-supported or contracted organizations providing similar services. The program intends to impact environmental health and economic development by fostering a cleaner transportation infrastructure and supporting diverse businesses. The program prioritizes businesses headquartered or with principal operations in Pennsylvania, zero-emission vehicle projects, medium-duty and light-duty fleet refueling infrastructure projects, renewable natural gas vehicle and infrastructure projects, and projects located in or predominantly serving environmental justice areas. Additionally, minority-, veteran-, or woman-owned businesses are also prioritized. These priorities reflect a strategic approach to maximize environmental benefits, support local economies, and promote equity in the transition to alternative fuels. Expected outcomes of the AFIG program include a significant increase in the adoption of alternative fuel vehicles and associated refueling infrastructure across Pennsylvania. Measurable results will include the number of vehicles retrofitted or purchased to operate on alternative fuels, the installation of new fleet- or home-refueling equipment, and the advancement of research and development in alternative fuel technology. The program's strategic priorities and theory of change are centered on catalyzing a widespread shift towards cleaner transportation options, driven by financial incentives and targeted support for innovative projects and underserved communities, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and healthier Pennsylvania.

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.

This funding initiative provides financial support to regional partnerships of economic development organizations in Pennsylvania to enhance collaboration and deliver effective services that promote business growth and strengthen local economies.

This funding provides financial support to Pennsylvania counties, cities, and local governments to aid in COVID-19 response, economic recovery, and public health improvements.

The Fayette County Tourism Grant Program, administered by GO Laurel Highlands, offers grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 to nonprofit or for-profit businesses in the tourism and hospitality industry in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, for marketing, tourism enhancement, operational expenses, and visitor center operations, with the aim of boosting tourism and economic activity in the region.

The GO Laurel Highlands is offering a tourism grant ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 for marketing, enhancement of attractions, and special events aimed at increasing visitation and economic activity in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, with applications to be submitted by October 4, 2024.

This program provides up to $2,000 in professional services to support small farms and agribusinesses in Chester County, Pennsylvania, particularly those facing financial barriers and led by socially or economically disadvantaged individuals.

The BLOOM Grant Program, initiated in 2018 by the BLOOM Business Empowerment Center through the York County Economic Alliance (YCEA), aims to empower small businesses in York County. This initiative aligns with the YCEA's mission to foster economic growth and stability within the region by providing crucial financial support to businesses with tangible needs. The program's core objective is to help businesses improve productivity, expand services, or achieve the next level of growth, thereby contributing to the overall economic vitality of York County. Since its inception, the BLOOM Grant Program has demonstrated significant impact, distributing 235 grants totaling $480,000 to various small businesses and organizations. The program specifically targets small businesses in York County, including those in Downtown York and York County Trail Towns communities, with a particular focus on women-owned businesses, start-up entrepreneurs, and graduates of BLOOM classes. This broad reach reflects a commitment to inclusive economic development, ensuring that a diverse range of businesses can access vital resources for growth. Priority consideration for funding is given to businesses that have not previously received BLOOM grant funding, promoting equitable access and supporting a wider array of enterprises. The program also prioritizes businesses owned by Women, Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, and Veterans, aiming to address historical disparities and promote economic empowerment within these communities. Furthermore, businesses that commit to using local businesses for grant implementation are favored, reinforcing local economic cycles and fostering community collaboration. The program awards grants ranging from $500 to $1,500, with amounts determined by need and potential impact. These grants are intended to fund projects that demonstrably improve productivity, expand services, or facilitate business growth. Examples of previously funded projects include improving signage, physical improvements to business locations, marketing initiatives, training and certification for new services, and the purchase of new equipment. The expected outcome is a measurable increase in the operational efficiency, market reach, and overall growth of recipient businesses, contributing to job creation and sustained economic development within York County. This strategic approach reflects the YCEA's theory of change, which posits that targeted financial investment in small businesses, especially those in underrepresented groups, can lead to significant and sustainable regional economic benefits.

The Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center (NE-DBIC) is offering the New Dairy Processor Start-up Grant program to support new dairy processing projects across the Northeast. The core mission of this program is to foster competitive dairy processing businesses with long-term viability. This aligns with a broader strategic objective of strengthening the regional dairy industry by enabling operations of all sizes to successfully launch and sustain their products in the marketplace. By focusing on start-up operations and tangible implementation, the NE-DBIC aims to facilitate direct economic impact and product innovation within the dairy sector. The program targets several key beneficiaries, including dairy farmers ready to begin processing, value-added entrepreneurs with proven experience in dairy processing or business startups, and dairy processors established after January 1, 2023, who are in their start-up phase. The impact goals are centered on developing these businesses, supporting their entry into the market, and ultimately contributing to the economic vitality of the Northeast dairy industry. By providing financial assistance for start-up operations, the program seeks to create new opportunities for dairy-related businesses and products. The program's priorities and focuses are clearly on tangible implementation rather than earlier stages like research and development, concept development, or initial planning. This indicates a strategic emphasis on getting products to market and establishing sustainable business models. Eligibility criteria further refine this focus, requiring applicants to be headquartered or based in the Northeast, demonstrate proof of concept, have a robust business plan, obtain necessary licenses, and show commitment from buyers or distributors by the end of the grant period. Expected outcomes include the successful launch of new value-added dairy products, the establishment of competitive and viable dairy processing businesses, and increased market access for Northeast dairy products. Measurable results would likely include the number of new businesses launched, the volume of new products brought to market, and the economic growth generated within the participating dairy sectors. The NE-DBIC's strategic priorities, as evidenced by this grant, involve direct investment in the operational start-up phase, aiming for a theory of change where targeted financial support leads to the successful commercialization and long-term sustainability of dairy processing ventures in the region.

This program provides entrepreneurial training and resources to aspiring business owners in the Bradford, Pennsylvania area, helping them develop ventures that positively impact their community.

This program provides $200 million in competitive funding to improve broadband access in underserved areas lacking reliable internet service of at least 25/3 Mbps.

This initiative provides funding and support to nonprofit organizations, local governments, and Tribal governments in coal-impacted communities to develop and scale innovative economic projects that create job opportunities and foster local economic transformation.