Grants for Small businesses - Business and Commerce

Leap Funding, provided by Main Street Ventures, offers equity-free funding ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 to promising, revenue-generating businesses. The primary goal of this program is to help these businesses scale their community impact and enhance their long-term survival prospects. Main Street Ventures' mission, as evidenced by this grant, is to foster economic growth and community development by supporting local enterprises, particularly within the Greater Cincinnati region. This aligns with a strategic priority to strengthen local economies through direct investment in businesses that demonstrate strong potential and customer demand. The target beneficiaries of Leap Funding are established business entities, specifically C-Corps, S-Corps, or LLCs, that possess a Federal Tax ID (EIN). The program focuses on businesses within key industry areas, including retail storefronts (restaurants, coffee shops, retail shops), manufactured goods (consumer packaged goods, clothing, sporting goods), and technology companies (hardware, software). A critical geographical focus is the Greater Cincinnati region, encompassing specific counties in Ohio (Hamilton, Butler, Clermont, Warren), Kentucky (Boone, Campbell), and Indiana (Dearborn). Grant requests from outside this region are explicitly not considered. The program prioritizes funding for specific growth projects rather than general operating expenses. Main Street Ventures defines a growth project as a step that will accelerate business expansion. Suitable direct expenses include key equipment, packaging support, and technology product development. Conversely, general operating expenses such as existing payroll, rent, insurance, marketing, and legal fees are not eligible for grant funds. Businesses are also required to demonstrate customer demand and consistent progression since their founding, ensuring that the funding supports businesses with a proven track record and clear growth trajectory. Expected outcomes include accelerated business growth, increased community impact, and improved long-term survival rates for the funded enterprises. Measurable results would likely include job creation, increased revenue for the businesses, expansion into new markets, or enhanced product development. Special consideration is given to women and minority-owned businesses, as well as those that can secure matching funds from other sources, reflecting a strategic priority to promote diversity and leverage additional investment. The foundation's theory of change appears to be that by providing targeted, equity-free capital for specific growth initiatives, they can empower local businesses to expand, thereby creating a ripple effect of economic benefit and community resilience within the Greater Cincinnati area.

This grant provides $20,000 to women entrepreneurs in the U.S. to help them grow their early-stage businesses without giving up equity.

The Dubois County Chamber of Commerce quarterly business grant aims to bolster the local economy by supporting and promoting businesses that are current chamber members and contribute to the community's vitality. The Chamber's mission, though not explicitly detailed in the provided text, is implicitly aligned with fostering a robust local business environment, creating jobs, and enhancing the overall economic well-being of Dubois County. This grant serves as a direct mechanism to achieve those objectives, ensuring that financial support is directed towards entities committed to the area's prosperity. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are locally owned businesses situated within Dubois County. This includes businesses with no more than 50 full-time employees, including franchised businesses that are locally owned and operated, but explicitly excludes subsidiaries of larger corporations and publicly traded companies. The impact goal is to strengthen the foundational elements of the local economy by empowering these businesses, preventing their absorption by larger entities, and fostering an environment where local entrepreneurship can thrive. The grant prioritizes businesses that demonstrate a commitment to local operation and compliance with state regulations. Key focuses include ensuring that recipients are registered and in good standing with the Indiana Secretary of State, or have proper sole proprietorship documentation. Additionally, businesses must disclose any pending litigation, highlighting a focus on responsible and ethical business practices. These criteria aim to channel funds to stable and compliant businesses that are genuinely invested in the Dubois County community. The expected outcomes of this grant program are multifaceted. By providing financial support, the Chamber anticipates increased stability and growth among local businesses, leading to job creation and retention within Dubois County. Measurable results could include tracking the number of businesses supported, the reported growth in their employee base, and their continued good standing within the community. The Chamber's strategic priority is to act as a catalyst for local economic development, with this grant program serving as a core component of that strategy. The underlying theory of change is that by directly investing in and empowering local businesses, the Chamber can cultivate a resilient and prosperous economy that benefits all residents of Dubois County.

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA) is offering grants under the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) program. This program aims to transform the food system by increasing options, improving access, and creating new and better markets for small and mid-size producers. The core mission is to build a more diversified, distributed, and local food system to enhance its resilience and benefit consumers, producers, and rural communities. The RFSI program targets a broad range of beneficiaries, including agricultural producers and processors (or groups thereof), nonprofit organizations, for-profit entities, local government entities, tribal governments, and institutions such as schools, universities, or hospitals. The primary impact goal is to strengthen the middle of the food supply chain in Pennsylvania. Expected outcomes include increased production capacities for food processors, improved storage for produce and grains, and enhanced aggregation points like food hubs and farmer cooperatives. Funding priorities are aligned with addressing critical gaps in Pennsylvania's middle food supply chain. Specifically, the program prioritizes projects that establish or enhance aggregation points, improve food processing infrastructure (including equipment upgrades and moves to licensed spaces), and expand storage facilities, particularly cold storage in urban areas and storage for identity-preserved grains and dry beans. The USDA also encourages projects that benefit underserved farmers and ranchers, new and beginning farmers, veteran producers, and businesses owned by socially disadvantaged individuals. The grant program offers Simplified Equipment-Only Grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, which do not require cost sharing or matching. These are fixed-price grants solely for equipment purchases, with funds to be awarded no earlier than July 1, 2024, and projects completed by June 30, 2026. This focused approach on equipment aims to directly support tangible improvements in the food system's infrastructure, enabling producers and processors to expand and diversify their operations.

The Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC) is offering the Torrington Grant Program, a grant designed to foster the growth of businesses located in Torrington, Connecticut. This initiative aligns with the WBDC's mission to support and empower businesses, particularly by providing crucial financial assistance that can contribute to economic development within the targeted city. The program specifically excludes the use of funds for operating expenses, real estate improvements, reimbursement for past purchases, or debt repayment, emphasizing a focus on growth-oriented investments rather than day-to-day operational costs. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are for-profit businesses situated in Torrington, Connecticut, that meet specific criteria. These businesses must have been in operation for at least two years with a record of sales, demonstrate annual sales/revenue between $25,000 and $2,000,000 in the last twelve months, be registered in Connecticut, and hold a zoning permit from the City of Torrington. Additionally, they must be in good standing with the CT Department of Revenue Services, possess an established business checking account, and utilize a formal digital bookkeeping/financial system. The owner must also be at least 18 years old. The impact goal is to stimulate economic vitality and stability within Torrington by supporting established local businesses. The program prioritizes businesses that are poised for growth and are operating within a structured financial framework. There is a clear focus on financial transparency and stability, as evidenced by the requirement for digital bookkeeping systems and good standing with the Department of Revenue Services. Certain types of businesses are explicitly ineligible, including childcare businesses (though WBDC offers other programs for them), businesses that have previously received a WBDC grant, current WBDC vendors or contractors, and a range of businesses such as medical marijuana, liquor stores, adult businesses, vape/tobacco shops, gambling-related businesses, gun stores, cash advance/pawn shops, and collection agencies. This selectivity ensures that the grants are directed towards businesses that align with the WBDC's strategic vision for community development and ethical business practices. Grants will range from $2,500 to $10,000. The expected outcomes include a measurable increase in the capacity and reach of the recipient businesses, contributing to job creation and sustained economic activity within Torrington. By providing financial resources to qualifying businesses, the WBDC aims to strengthen the local business ecosystem and encourage long-term prosperity. This grant program is a direct manifestation of the WBDC's strategic priority to support local economies through targeted financial aid, operating under the theory of change that direct investment in compliant, established businesses will lead to enhanced economic stability and growth.

This grant provides matching funds to commercial property owners and businesses in specific zoning districts of Libertyville, Illinois, to improve the appearance and condition of their buildings and sites.

The Route 66 Black Experiences Grant Program provides direct grant awards to African-American owned/operated businesses and attractions along Route 66, and funding to support research and programs designed to tell the stories of Black experiences related to Route 66. The program, celebrating the Route 66 Centennial, aims to help Black-owned businesses and attractions stay in operation, reopen, and expand, while also supporting research and storytelling efforts related to Black experiences on Route 66. Eligible applicants include Black-owned/operated businesses located along Route 66 with fewer than 20 employees. The 2024 grant round offers a total of $50,000 in awards, with applications due by July 14, 2024, and awards announced the week of August 5, 2024.

The Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling Prize is a grant opportunity for creative individuals, entrepreneurs, and businesses to address challenges in the lithium-ion battery recycling supply chain. The goal of this phased prize competition is to develop and demonstrate processes that can capture 90% of all discarded or spent lithium-ion batteries in the United States for recovery of key materials. The continuation of the prize will award a total of $7.4 million in cash prizes and voucher support over the next 3 years. This includes a new competition track for new competitors and previous participants, as well as additional support for Phase III winning teams. Breakthrough, a new public contest, aims to incentivize innovative solutions from battery industry entrepreneurs that align with the prize goal. Up to $2.4 million in cash prizes and voucher funding will be awarded to up to 10 winners. Winners will also have the opportunity to advance to Phase IV of the competition. Qualified lithium-ion battery recyclers and second-life testing organizations are also being sought as Evaluation Entities for Phase IV. More information about becoming an Evaluation Entity can be found on the American-Made website.

The City of West Haven's American Rescue Plan Act Storefront Façade Improvement Grant Program aims to enhance the character and attractiveness of the downtown area and other public shopping and pedestrian areas. This initiative seeks to improve West Haven’s overall aesthetic and vibrancy by preserving or upgrading existing storefront facades, contributing to the economic revitalization and community well-being of the city. While the prompt mentions "foundation mission alignment" and "foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change," the provided text describes a city-run grant program rather than a foundation. Therefore, the alignment is with the city's goal of urban improvement and economic development for its small businesses. The program primarily targets for-profit small businesses located within the City of West Haven, defined as having no more than 50 full-time employees and meeting the criteria of a small business concern as per the Small Business Act. These businesses must be in good standing with the City and the Connecticut Department of Revenue Service, and cannot have received alternate funding for the same intended costs. The grant also has specific eligibility for property owners or businesses with lease terms extending through June 2026 if they lease their space. The impact goals are centered on fostering a more inviting and safer urban environment, encouraging local commerce, and supporting the financial health and longevity of West Haven's small businesses. Key priorities and focuses of the grant program include exterior improvements such as new windows, doors, awnings, painting, attached signage, siding, brick appointing, and exterior lighting. It also covers HVAC installation/upgrades and outdoor dining/patio space (if affixed to the building). The program explicitly excludes work completed prior to agreement execution, new construction, temporary improvements, neon signs, interior improvements, roofs (unless part of a larger project), and the removal of architecturally significant features. This selective approach ensures that funds are directed towards improvements that directly contribute to the facade's visual appeal and the overall streetscape. Expected outcomes of the program include a noticeable improvement in the appearance of storefronts, leading to increased foot traffic and commercial activity in the downtown and other public shopping areas. The addition of safety measures like enhanced lighting is anticipated to create a more secure environment for pedestrians and patrons. By providing financial assistance for these upgrades, the City of West Haven expects to stimulate local economic growth, retain existing businesses, and attract new investments, thereby reinforcing the city's identity as a vibrant and thriving community for its residents and visitors.

Grant opportunity: Job Creation and Business Incentive Program in California offers forgivable loans to prospective and existing business owners for job creation. Eligible businesses include new ventures or existing ones looking to expand their floor area by 50% or more. The grants can be used for interior/exterior improvements, purchase of business equipment, furniture, fixtures, and working capital.

The Travel Oregon City grant program invites applications from non-profit and for-profit organizations to fund public events that attract tourists, support local businesses, and enhance the community's tourism brand, with a focus on transparency, financial stability, visitor attendance estimation, vendor involvement, and annual application for funding.

The City of West Hollywood's Arts Project Grant offers funding to eligible nonprofit arts organizations for projects taking place within the city and serving its community. This program aligns with the city's broader mission to enrich the lives of its residents and visitors through cultural engagement. The grant aims to foster a vibrant arts scene, recognize and champion local cultural resources, and discover new places for artmaking, directly supporting the city's commitment to cultural development and community well-being. The primary target beneficiaries are the residents and visitors of West Hollywood, with a focus on increasing their access to quality arts programming. The program seeks to engage diverse audiences and expand participation in the arts, particularly making experiences financially and geographically accessible. Beyond cultural enrichment, the grant also intends to support local businesses by increasing revenues and fostering arts-business partnerships, contributing to the economic vitality of the West Hollywood community. Key priorities for this grant include presenting one artistic presentation per year, as opposed to a series of projects, ensuring focused and impactful events. The program prioritizes organizations that can demonstrate artistic experience, an understanding of West Hollywood's unique cultural diversity, and a commitment to serving the general public within the city or immediately adjacent areas. Projects that do not include fundraisers, capital campaigns, murals, or religious-based programs are eligible, maintaining a clear focus on public arts presentations. Expected outcomes and measurable results are centered on increasing engagement with the arts, expanding arts audiences, and enhancing the accessibility of arts experiences for West Hollywood residents. The program also aims to strengthen local cultural resources and generate economic benefits for local businesses through arts-related activities. While specific quantitative metrics are not detailed in the provided text, the emphasis on "increasing access," "expanding audiences," and "increasing revenues for local businesses" indicates the desire for demonstrable positive impacts in these areas. The City of West Hollywood's strategic priorities for this grant reflect a theory of change that postulates that by investing in local arts organizations and projects, the city can foster a more engaged, culturally rich, and economically robust community. The grant's focus on accessibility, local relevance, and partnership building suggests a belief that widespread participation in the arts can lead to a stronger sense of community, increased quality of life for residents, and tangible economic benefits for local enterprises. This aligns with a broader strategy of leveraging cultural assets for comprehensive community development.

The Greater Franklin Chamber of Commerce is offering a small business capacity-building grant program through its Franklin Chamber Foundation. This initiative aims to strengthen the economic and social growth of the Franklin community by supporting local small businesses, which are considered the foundation of the city. The program aligns with the Chamber's mission to assist in fortifying these essential businesses within the community. The target beneficiaries for this program are small businesses in Franklin with 10 or fewer full-time employees. The grant seeks to impact these businesses by providing financial assistance for various capacity-building initiatives. The overall goal is to enhance the resilience and growth potential of these small enterprises, thereby contributing to the broader economic vitality of Franklin. The program prioritizes initiatives that expand physical space, improve online presence, or bolster marketing efforts. Examples of capacity building include the development of user-friendly online shopping platforms, enhancement of point-of-sale systems, updating websites, increasing physical spaces, and implementing innovative marketing strategies. These focus areas are designed to provide tangible improvements that directly contribute to business growth and sustainability. The Franklin Chamber Foundation plans to award 12 grants, each valued at $2,500, to local small businesses. The expected outcome is that these grants will enable recipient businesses to implement crucial capacity-building projects, leading to increased operational efficiency, broader market reach, and ultimately, greater economic stability. While specific measurable results are not detailed beyond the number and amount of grants, the underlying theory of change is that direct financial support for strategic improvements will empower small businesses to thrive, reinforcing the community's economic fabric.

Name of Funding Organization: Cecil County, Maryland Contact Information: Not provided in the input Grant Program: FY24 Cecil County Route 40 Revitalization Grant Program Intent: The grant aims to assist businesses and organizations located along the Route 40 corridor in Cecil County, Maryland to improve their exterior visual appearance and function. The goal is to enhance the overall visual appearance and increase utilization of these businesses and organizations. Award Details: The maximum award per grant application is $25,000. Grant funds are intended to be used for exterior improvement projects visible from Route 40. Up to 20% of the grant funds may be used for specified interior improvements with prior approval. All funding is contingent upon funding from the State of Maryland and approval of Cecil County Council. Eligibility: Businesses and organizations, both for-profit and non-profit, located within Cecil County along the Route 40 corridor with a Route 40/Pulaski Highway address are eligible to apply. Applicants must be in good standing with the IRS, State of Maryland, and Cecil County. Other Relevant Information: - Applicants must match the funds they are applying for. - Project designs must be approved by Cecil County Government. - Demolition of derelict structures visible from Route 40 will be considered. - Disbursement of grant funding will only be made on a reimbursement basis. - Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis starting January 1, 2024. - Grant funds must be expended by June 30, 2024. Eligible Activities: Signage, Lighting, Roofing, Siding, Painting, Entrance, Porch/Deck, Fencing, Landscaping/Hardscaping, Sidewalks, Driveway, Parking, ADA Ramp, Demolition Ineligible Activities: Improvements to primary residence, Interior renovations, Improvements not visible from Route 40, Trash Removal Project Evaluation: The Grant Review Committee will evaluate applications based on criteria such as completeness, enhanced visual appearance from Route 40, stability of business/organization, positive impact on the business and community, clear explanation of how grant funds will be used, adherence to maximum limit of $25,000, identification of matching funds sources, preference

This award recognizes and honors small businesses in Nevada's agriculture, food, and beverage sectors that demonstrate exceptional contributions to the state's economy and community.

This program provides free, hands-on support to small business owners in Denver with two to five years of experience, helping them improve operations, marketing, and leadership skills to prepare for sustainable growth.

This program provides mentorship and resources to early-stage entrepreneurs and small businesses developing innovative products from sustainable West Coast groundfish, supporting both market readiness and economic growth in coastal communities.

Ohio's Premier Manufacturing Pitch Competition, sponsored by MAGNET, is a grant program designed to foster manufacturing innovation and support startups in Ohio. The program aligns with a mission to advance the manufacturing sector by providing crucial resources, including financial awards and expert consulting services, to promising entrepreneurs. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between innovative ideas and market-ready products, thereby strengthening Ohio's industrial landscape. The primary beneficiaries of this program are Ohio-based entrepreneurs who possess a physical product, an innovative idea, or a manufacturing innovation. The competition specifically targets startups that are poised for growth and can benefit from strategic support to reach their next milestone. The impact goals include stimulating economic development within Ohio, creating new job opportunities, and enhancing the state's reputation as a hub for advanced manufacturing. The program prioritizes a multi-faceted approach to support, focusing on engineering design assistance, operational services, lean operations, and sales and marketing. A notable focus is the Innovation Award, sponsored by Huntington, which provides up to $10,000 specifically for diverse founders, underscoring a commitment to inclusive growth and equitable access to opportunities within the manufacturing sector. Additionally, the competition offers exposure to The Advanced Manufacturing Fund and visibility to a judging panel of local service providers and investors, providing invaluable networking and funding opportunities. Expected outcomes include the successful development and commercialization of new manufacturing innovations, leading to increased revenue for participating startups and a stronger, more diversified manufacturing base in Ohio. Measurable results include the total amount of prizes awarded, which exceeds $75,000, and the provision of MAGNET’s manufacturing consulting services tailored to the specific needs of the companies. The program also aims to foster a collaborative ecosystem where entrepreneurs receive guidance from MAGNET's team of manufacturing experts, contributing to a robust pipeline of talent and innovation.

This program provides flexible funding to local governments to improve housing, infrastructure, and economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income individuals in their communities.

This program provides financial assistance to farmers in Orange County, North Carolina, to support innovative agricultural projects that enhance income and market access.