Grants for Small businesses - Business and Commerce

This program provides financial assistance to startups and small businesses in Northwest Michigan for purchasing essential assets that will help them grow and improve their operations.

The Restaurants Care Resilience Fund, a program of the nonprofit California Restaurant Foundation, aims to support independent restaurants in California. This initiative is a clear alignment with the foundation's mission to strengthen the restaurant community by providing crucial financial aid. The fund, powered by generous gifts from PG&E, SoCalGas, and SDG&E, is set to award 278 independent restaurants with grants of $5,000 in 2024. The primary beneficiaries of this program are independently owned, for-profit restaurants or commercial caterers in California. Specifically, eligible entities must be owned by a CA resident, operate 1-5 units, earn no more than $3 million in annual gross revenue (combined for all units), and be a commercial customer of either PG&E, SoCalGas, or SDG&E, while currently being open and active for business. Franchises, home businesses, food trucks, and meal prep companies are not eligible, ensuring the grants directly support small, independent operators. The impact goal is to bolster the resilience and sustainability of these businesses, particularly in areas of operational improvement, employee welfare, and recovery from unforeseen hardships. The fund prioritizes several key areas for grant utilization. These include investments in energy-efficient kitchen equipment, which also qualify for rebates, thereby maximizing the grant's value. Technology upgrades are another focus, supporting the adoption of essential systems like POS, website, accounting, HR, inventory management, and loyalty programs. Employee training, covering areas like program design, ServSafe certifications, and participation in industry training councils, is also a priority, recognizing the importance of a skilled workforce. Additionally, the grants can be used for retention bonuses to reward employees and for addressing unforeseen hardships such as robbery, vandalism, fire, flood, or natural disasters experienced within the last 12 months. The expected outcomes are a more resilient and modern independent restaurant sector in California. Measurable results will include the number of restaurants receiving grants, the types of investments made (e.g., number of energy-efficient equipment purchases, technology upgrades implemented, employees trained, or retention bonuses distributed), and the number of businesses recovering from hardships. While not explicitly detailed as a strategic priority or theory of change within the provided text, the foundation's approach appears to be a direct intervention model, providing financial resources to address immediate needs and foster long-term stability and growth for small businesses within the restaurant industry. This strategy directly contributes to economic stability and community welfare by supporting a vital sector.

The Clackamas County Public Health Division (CCPHD) Tobacco Prevention and Education Program (TPEP) is offering a grant opportunity to independently owned convenience stores in Clackamas County, Oregon. The program's core mission is to mitigate the adverse public health effects of tobacco by incentivizing retailers to cease tobacco sales and transition to a business model that actively supports community health. This initiative aligns with broader public health goals of reducing tobacco use and promoting healthier environments, reflecting a strategic priority to leverage economic incentives for positive health outcomes within the community. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are independently operated convenience stores located in Clackamas County that are not part of a corporate franchise. These stores must hold a valid Oregon Tobacco Retail License and actively sell tobacco products as of the application deadline. The impact goal is to transform these retailers into pillars of community health by fostering environments that offer healthier product choices and reduce access to tobacco. This change is expected to lead to improved public health indicators within Clackamas County, particularly concerning tobacco-related illnesses and youth access. The program prioritizes supporting the transitioning retailers through various mechanisms. In addition to grant funding of up to $20,000, TPEP offers ongoing technical assistance from LivelihoodNW for business plan development, assistance with becoming authorized to accept SNAP and WIC benefits, connections to local producers for new product categories, professionally designed promotional materials, and earned media/community outreach. These comprehensive support services are designed to ensure the long-term success and sustainability of the new, healthy business models. Expected outcomes include retailers experiencing increased profits from higher mark-up products, an expanded customer base, savings on tobacco licenses, and enhanced public perception. Measurable results will likely involve a reduction in tobacco sales outlets in Clackamas County, an increase in the availability of healthy food options in participating stores, and heightened community awareness of the benefits of healthy retail. The theory of change posits that by empowering individual retailers with financial incentives and robust support, a ripple effect will occur, positively influencing community health and inspiring other businesses to consider similar transitions.

The 2024 Texas Rural Woman Grant, offered by Texas Woman's University, aims to foster economic development in rural Texas by empowering woman-owned small businesses to undertake innovative projects. This grant aligns with the university's mission to support women entrepreneurs and stimulate economic growth in underserved areas of the state. The program seeks to address the unique challenges faced by rural businesses, contributing to the overall economic well-being of Texas communities. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are existing rural, woman-owned small businesses in Texas. These businesses must be at least 51% directly owned and controlled by one or more U.S. citizen women who also reside in Texas. The grant focuses on for-profit corporations, partnerships, LLPs, LLCs, or sole proprietorships located and operated within eligible rural Texas counties. The impact goal is to encourage and enable these businesses to undertake new and innovative projects, thereby creating greater economic development activity in rural Texas. The grant prioritizes projects that involve the purchase of machinery, equipment, or technology; farm implements or machinery; the addition or acquisition of new inventory or raw materials; the purchase and installation of fixtures or display units; property improvements that will result in increased sales and revenue; and marketing or advertising campaigns. Any other business-related activity deemed aligned with the program's purpose by the Center for Women Entrepreneurs (CWE) is also eligible. This focus ensures that funding directly supports tangible growth and operational enhancements for the recipient businesses. The expected outcomes and measurable results include the successful implementation of new projects by ten woman-owned businesses, each receiving a $5,000 grant. Recipients are required to complete a small business training course, engage in three hours of small business advising/mentoring, and submit an approved business plan with three years of financials. These requirements are designed to not only provide immediate financial support but also equip business owners with the knowledge and resources for sustainable long-term success and growth, leading to increased sales and revenue for their businesses.

State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) Grant is available for small businesses in Colorado to support their international expansion efforts. The grant provides funding of up to $10,000 per year for activities such as attending trade shows, holding international business meetings, researching new markets, updating marketing materials for new markets, and compliance testing. Administered by the Global Business Development (GBD) division, this program is funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration.

The Arizona Innovation Challenge (AIC) is the largest business plan competition in the country, designed to advance innovation and technology commercialization opportunities in Arizona. Its mission aligns with supporting early-stage ventures in scaling their operations. The program is specifically structured to identify and nurture promising startups, providing them with the resources and guidance necessary to grow and succeed within the state's innovation ecosystem. The primary goal is to foster a vibrant technology and entrepreneurial landscape in Arizona, contributing to economic development and job creation. The target beneficiaries of the AIC are early-stage technology companies and startups based in Arizona. The program aims to support ventures that demonstrate potential for innovation and commercialization, helping them overcome common challenges associated with early-stage development, such as securing funding and gaining market traction. The impact goals include increasing the number of successful technology companies in Arizona, enhancing the state's reputation as a hub for innovation, and ultimately generating significant economic value through new businesses and advanced technologies. The AIC prioritizes ventures that are innovative and have a clear path to commercialization, focusing on sectors that can drive economic growth and technological advancement in Arizona. The program offers a two-tiered support system: semifinalists gain access to Venture Raise, a twelve-week hybrid accelerator designed to prepare startups for funding. This initial phase focuses on refining business models, pitch development, and investor readiness. Following Venture Raise, ten finalists are awarded $100,000 and enter Venture Scale, a six-month accelerator. This advanced phase provides customized support and one-on-one matching with ACA Entrepreneurs-in-Residence, focusing on strategic growth, market penetration, and long-term sustainability. The expected outcomes include a higher success rate for participating startups, increased investment in Arizona's technology sector, and the creation of high-quality jobs. Measurable results are tied to the number of companies funded, the amount of follow-on investment secured by participants, and the sustained growth of businesses emerging from the program. The Arizona Commerce Authority's strategic priority through the AIC is to build a robust and competitive innovation economy. Their theory of change posits that by providing targeted financial awards, comprehensive accelerator programs, and expert mentorship, early-stage ventures can significantly de-risk their growth trajectory and achieve commercial success. This, in turn, creates a virtuous cycle of innovation, attracting further talent and investment to the state and solidifying Arizona's position as a leader in technology and entrepreneurship.

This grant provides $5,000 to U.S.-based entrepreneurs and small business owners who submit a structured business plan to support their growth and development.

This funding opportunity provides financial support and promotional exposure to women entrepreneurs who own small businesses in the U.S., helping them grow and connect with their communities.

The Home for Dreams Initiative is a mentorship and grant program specifically designed to support Black-owned businesses. If your business is selected, you will receive a $25,000 grant, one-on-one meetings with Ariel Kaye – Parachute Founder, access to mentorship from other Parachute team members, and brand amplification through Parachute’s email and social channels. The application process requires filling out the provided information. Please note that all non-public business and financial information provided will be kept confidential. The Sponsor reserves the right to cancel or modify the Initiative at any time without notice. By participating in the Initiative, you agree to be bound by the Terms and Conditions outlined by the Sponsor. To apply for the Home for Dreams Initiative, please visit this link: [Application Link](https://www.parachutehome.com/mentorship-apply?gh_jid=6958311002)

Venmo Small Business Grant Program Terms & Conditions Void in Puerto Rico and where prohibited by law. 1. Eligibility: The Grant Program is open only to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and the District of Columbia who: Are at least eighteen (18) years old. Have a U.S. Venmo Account and valid business profile on Venmo in good standing, with a profile photo, background photo, and business description at the time of application and through the time of any grant award. Own a small business, defined as a business entity that is duly organized, validly existing, and in good standing under the laws of its principal place of business (within the U.S. or D.C.) and: Can promptly provide all government documentation requested by Sponsor or Administrator to show proof of business status. Is active and has sold at least $500 worth of goods or services within the three (3) months prior to the start of the Grant Program Period. Employs ten (10) employees or less and has less than $50,000 in annual sales. Establishing a U.S. Venmo Account and valid business profile on Venmo is free. Conducting transactions on Venmo is not an eligibility criterion for this Grant Program. Employees of PayPal, Inc., Merkle Inc., Global Entrepreneurship Network, Inc., Hello Alice, Inc., and their parent and affiliate companies, as well as the immediate family (spouse, parents, siblings, and children) and household members of each such employee, are not eligible. The Grant Program is void where prohibited by law. 2. Sponsor: PayPal, Inc., 2211 North First Street, San Jose, CA 95131. Administrator: Merkle Inc., 3000 Town Center, Floor 21, Southfield, MI 48075. 3. Agreement to Terms & Conditions: Participation in this Grant Program constitutes applicant’s full and unconditional agreement to these Terms & Conditions and Sponsor’s and Administrator’s decisions, which are final and binding in all matters related to this Grant Program. Receiving a grant, if selected, is contingent upon fulfilling all requirements set forth herein and any additional requirements disclosed by Sponsor. 4. Timing: The Grant Program begins on May 10, 2024, at 12:00 a.m. Eastern Time ("ET") and ends on May 31, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. ET (the "Grant Program Period"). Sponsor's servers are the official time-keeping device for the Grant Program.

Honeycomb Credit's Golden Summer Grant offers $5,000 to small businesses, providing an opportunity to expand menus, renovate storefronts, or invest in cutting-edge equipment. The grant aims to help small businesses unlock their potential and increase revenue. Eligible applicants must be small business owners, and applications are due by September 1, 2024. The winner will be announced by September 15, 2024, and will receive the grant in the form of a check or Visa gift card.

The Legacy Business Recovery Grant Program, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocation to the City of Los Angeles, offers grants of up to $20,000 to eligible Legacy Businesses. This initiative is designed to provide crucial financial assistance to aid these businesses in their recovery from the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The program's core mission aligns with broader efforts to support local economies and preserve established community businesses, recognizing their historical and cultural value. It underscores a commitment to helping businesses adapt, reopen, and sustain operations in a challenging economic landscape. The primary beneficiaries of this program are Legacy Businesses listed on the Legacy Business Registry, operating within Los Angeles city limits, and functioning from commercial, industrial, or manufacturing locations with a valid commercial lease. Home-based businesses are not eligible, and annual revenue cannot exceed $3 million. The impact goal is to facilitate the recovery and continued operation of these vital businesses, ensuring their survival and contribution to the local economy and community fabric. Businesses must demonstrate how the funds will be used for COVID-19 recovery expenses, with a focus on necessary expenditures. Funding priorities emphasize equitable distribution across finalists, with a particular focus on City of Los Angeles geographic diversity and low-to-moderate income neighborhoods. Grant application submissions from businesses located in or owned by individuals in low- and moderate-income communities (50% and 80% of Area Median Income as defined by HUD) are more heavily weighted, as are businesses facing an imminent threat of displacement. This weighted selection process reflects a strategic priority to support businesses in areas with greater need and vulnerability, aligning with a theory of change that targeted investment can produce more equitable and impactful recovery outcomes. Expected outcomes include the sustained operation of Legacy Businesses, job retention, and economic stabilization within affected communities. Measurable results will be tied to how grant funds are utilized, with eligible uses encompassing employee payroll, rent, utilities, insurance, working capital for reopening or continued operations, adapting to new technologies, payment of outstanding business expenses incurred after March 3, 2021, adaptive business practices, and legal fees for lease negotiations. Grant amounts are tiered based on employee count: $10,000 for businesses with one to five employees and $20,000 for those with six or more. This structure ensures that assistance is tailored to the operational scale of the businesses, contributing to their effective recovery and resilience.

This funding opportunity is designed to support initiatives that promote tourism and enhance infrastructure in Delaware County, aimed at increasing visitor numbers and spending.

We are so excited to be offering the Applefest Business Grant again this year! There are some amazing opportunities for businesses to capitalize on funding for those projects that can boost your business! This is a first come first serve grant program. All applications are reviewed by a committee and grant workshops will be held to assist those who need help filling out the application or who have questions about qualifying purchases. All grants are due by noon on Friday, November 1. Late applications will not be accepted. Since this is a rolling grant, once the funding had been dispensed, the grant program will close; even if it is before November 1.

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.

The Level Up LB: Extreme Small Business Makeover and Grant Program aims to propel small businesses towards success and sustainability. This initiative offers entrepreneurs a unique opportunity to connect with essential support resources and participate in a 12-week series of comprehensive workshops aimed at crafting new business and marketing plans. Upon completion of the program, participants become eligible to apply for $10k grants, empowering them to expand their business capacity and enhance resilience. 25 businesses will be selected to participate in this program and receive grant awards upon completion. 10 additional businesses will be selected to participate in the workshop series only, and may be eligible for grant awards if funds become available. Program selection and awards will be determined by a selection committee based on the following criteria: • Representation of businesses across all parts of the city with priority for businesses located in low-to-moderate income areas • Representation of businesses across multiple sectors • Business readiness and potential impact of program participation This application will close on May 21st at 5pm. No late applications will be accepted. Applicants will be notified of selection decisions in late June. For assistance with this application, please contact BizCare at 562-570-4249 or [email protected].

This grant provides financial support to small and emerging arts organizations in Washington State, particularly those serving historically underrepresented communities, to help cover operational costs and enhance their programming.

This grant provides $50,000 to diverse-led small businesses in Pennsylvania and New Jersey that meet specific criteria, aiming to support underrepresented entrepreneurs in creating new jobs and fostering business growth.

The North St. Louis Commercial Corridor Grant Program in Missouri has been allocated $37 million of Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds for administration by the St. Louis Development Corporation. The program includes Community Need Grants for small businesses and nonprofits located in a HUD Qualified Census Tract within a neighborhood containing part of one of the North St. Louis Commercial Corridors, as well as Small Business Stabilization & Expansion Grants for operational support and business growth. Additionally, there is a Façade and Storefront Improvements Program aimed at enhancing the value of businesses and improving the quality of customer experience in North St. Louis neighborhoods.

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.