The Headwaters Competitive Grant Fund is administered by Humboldt County, California, to support projects that enhance the region’s competitive economic advantage. This initiative aligns with the Humboldt County Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS), which identifies six business clusters and four major industries as priorities for growth. The program favors proposals that contribute to sustainable job creation, especially those that offer compensation at or above the area’s median income. It also supports initiatives that improve quality of life, foster healthy communities, and safeguard the natural environment.
The grant program is open to projects that demonstrate clear potential for business expansion or job generation within Humboldt County. Applicants are encouraged to align their proposals with the economic goals and industry sectors defined in the CEDS. The competitive nature of the fund means that priority will be given to projects that not only meet basic eligibility but also show strong potential for long-term economic impact and alignment with the county’s strategic vision.
The application window for the Fiscal Year 2024-25 round opens on December 20, 2024, and closes on February 1, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. Letters of intent (LOIs) are optional but recommended. Submitting a LOI allows staff to provide early feedback regarding eligibility issues before the application review period begins. Full applications will only be reviewed after the close of the submission window.
The Headwaters Fund Board will conduct its initial review of submitted proposals at its meeting scheduled for February 11, 2025. Award announcements are expected in June 2025. All materials, including the application form and LOI template, are available on the Headwaters Grant Programs webpage. For questions or guidance related to the application process or future funding rounds, applicants can contact the Economic Development Coordinator via email or phone.
The Headwaters Competitive Grant Fund is not a rolling program; it follows a fixed annual application cycle. While the program does not currently require matching funds, applicants should prepare comprehensive proposals that clearly articulate the project’s anticipated economic impact, sustainability, and alignment with community and environmental values.
Submit a Letter of Intent for early feedback on eligibility.
