Washington grants for Public and State controlled institutions of higher education

The Washington State Department of Commerce is launching an accelerated cohort of its Innovation Cluster Accelerator Program (ICAP 2.5). This initiative is an economic development strategy designed to bolster industry ecosystems and stimulate economic growth across the state. The program aims to assist organizations in expanding cluster operations, fostering innovation in key sectors, and drawing in talent and capital. While not explicitly detailed as a "foundation mission alignment," the program's objectives clearly align with broader state economic development goals, serving as a strategic framework to enhance Washington's competitive advantage in global industry sectors. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are industry-led consortia/clusters that demonstrate a commitment to building successful clusters. These consortia must include academic membership, evidenced by a letter of commitment from a major university or community college within Washington State. Furthermore, eligible clusters must demonstrate over $500,000 in investment, which can include prospective federal funding. The program prioritizes clusters that are truly industry-led, ensuring that funding supports initiatives with strong private sector engagement and a clear path to market-driven innovation and growth. The program's priorities and focus areas are multifaceted, designed to strengthen Washington's economic landscape. Key goals include establishing Washington as a global leader in critical industry sectors, supporting technology transfer and commercialization, accelerating the growth of new start-ups and scale-ups, and expanding existing businesses. A significant focus is placed on creating high-value jobs across Washington, increasing export opportunities, and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in both business ownership and the workforce. These priorities underscore a comprehensive approach to economic development that values innovation, job creation, and equitable growth. Expected outcomes and measurable results are integral to the ICAP 2.5. COMMERCE intends to award no more than 10 applications, with individual grants ranging from $50,000 to $150,000. The project period is tentatively set to commence around September 1, 2024, and conclude by December 31, 2024, indicating a short, high-impact performance window. The success of the program will be measured by its ability to drive cluster operations, innovation in key sectors, and the attraction of talent and capital, all contributing to the overarching goal of accelerating economic development and strengthening industry ecosystems. While a formal "theory of change" is not explicitly stated, the program's design implicitly operates on the theory that targeted investment in industry-led consortia will foster innovation, create high-value jobs, and ultimately establish Washington as a leader in key industry sectors, thereby increasing economic prosperity and global competitiveness.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to a variety of organizations in King County, Washington, to deliver community-based parenting programs, home-based family services, and developmental screening for families with children from prenatal stages to age five.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to local governments and federally recognized tribes in Washington state to improve the planning and permitting processes for clean energy projects like solar and wind, helping to reduce delays and enhance site readiness.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations and community initiatives in the Walla Walla Valley that promote belonging and regional thriving through capacity, community, and capital projects.

This funding opportunity is designed to support organizations that provide financial education initiatives in Washington State, helping to improve financial literacy among residents.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to local and regional organizations in Columbia, Garfield, Walla Walla, and Umatilla counties that are dedicated to serving their communities.

This program provides funding to eligible early learning facilities, including nonprofits and local governments, to expand and maintain licensed child care spaces for low-income families in Washington State.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to organizations in Seattle that offer culturally responsive and trauma-informed services to individuals affected by commercial sexual exploitation, including survivors of sex trafficking and related issues.

This funding initiative provides financial support to various organizations and groups that enhance community well-being in Mukilteo through public events and activities focused on arts, education, youth development, and economic growth.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to small organizations in King County that focus on professional development for those working with children from prenatal to age five, emphasizing early childhood development, mental health, and racial equity.

This funding opportunity supports innovative cancer research projects in Oregon and Washington, particularly those that aim to reduce health disparities and increase diversity in clinical trials.

This grant provides financial support for underprivileged youth in Chelan and Douglas counties to access skating lessons, shows, and related activities, promoting enrichment and skill development.

This grant provides funding for conservation projects that restore and enhance habitats for monarch butterflies and other native pollinators, targeting nonprofit organizations, government entities, tribal groups, and educational institutions.

This grant provides $10,000 to educators, schools, teaching artists, and organizations to create arts-integrated projects that promote creative and academic growth for preschool to 3rd grade students, focusing on equity and cultural relevance in arts education.

This grant provides financial support to medical research and social service organizations in the Puget Sound area, focusing on projects that improve health, education, and humanitarian services for low-income individuals and vulnerable populations.

This funding opportunity supports innovative cancer research projects in Washington State that aim to improve cancer care and outcomes while stimulating local economic growth.

This grant provides funding for King County-based nonprofit organizations, public agencies, and Tribal governments to acquire, construct, or renovate cultural, science, and technology facilities, with a focus on enhancing equity and community development.

This grant provides financial support to non-profit organizations, public agencies, and schools in Chelan, Douglas, Grant, and Okanogan counties to promote health, education, and arts initiatives that benefit the community.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations focused on community-driven projects that improve water quality and promote environmental stewardship in the Puget Sound region of Washington State.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations, public agencies, and small businesses in Vancouver, Washington, to create affordable housing, prevent homelessness, and promote economic stability for low- and moderate-income residents.