Grants to help Small Businesses throughout Washington

The Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA) is offering grants for the 2024-2025 period to support nonprofit Entrepreneur Support Organizations (ESOs) and similar organizations that provide business development services to microenterprises across Washington. This funding aims to strengthen the capacity of organizations that offer training, technical assistance, and access to financing to small businesses, particularly those with five or fewer employees. The program is intended to enhance economic development, social inclusion, and sustainability in various sectors, including agriculture, clean technology, the arts, and tourism. Funding levels for this grant are offered in three tiers—$20,000, $40,000, or $80,000—depending on the organization's experience and scope of services. Grants must be used for direct business support services, such as training programs, technical assistance, and microloan support. Organizations may also allocate funds to build their internal capacity, provided these activities directly improve services to microenterprises. However, funds cannot be used for equipment, direct financial aid to businesses, or other ineligible expenses specified in the guidelines. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit ESOs or quasi-governmental entities like Chambers of Commerce that provide business services. Organizations must demonstrate a focus on underserved groups, including BIPOC, veterans, women-owned businesses, LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs, and those from rural or historically marginalized communities. Organizations must also be listed as a Resource Partner on Evergreen BizLink, a business support network. Academic institutions are ineligible. The application is due by November 22, 2024, at 5:00 PM PST, with notifications by December 20, 2024. The project period ends June 16, 2025, with a final report required. Applicants are evaluated on their ability to impact underserved areas, deliver effective services, and demonstrate their potential to achieve outcomes such as business starts, job creation, or access to financing. WSMA will host information sessions, including an application portal walkthrough on November 14, 2024, to assist applicants. Technical assistance is available throughout the application period. Applicants should review eligibility criteria carefully and complete all required forms and narrative sections to provide a clear and actionable plan for using grant funds.