Grants for Small businesses - Capacity Building

The Small Grant Initiative (SGI) by the Alachua County Commission aims to foster the development and growth of non-governmental, grassroots organizations and emerging small businesses within Alachua County. This program aligns with the commission's mission to support its residents, particularly those living at or below 150% of the federal poverty level. The initiative is designed to strengthen the capacity and infrastructure of these organizations, thereby enhancing their ability to serve the community effectively. The primary beneficiaries of the SGI are Alachua County residents who are economically disadvantaged. The program seeks to achieve significant impact by addressing critical community needs in areas such as safe, affordable housing, adequate food, quality healthcare, and quality childcare and education. By supporting organizations focused on these areas, the initiative intends to improve the overall quality of life and well-being for vulnerable populations within the county. The SGI prioritizes one-time capacity building or infrastructure improvements. This focus ensures that the funded projects create lasting changes that enhance the organizational effectiveness and service delivery of the grant recipients. The program is specifically interested in proposals that demonstrate a clear strategy for addressing one or more of the identified priority areas, with a maximum award limit of $15,000 for individual proposals. Expected outcomes include strengthened local organizations, improved access to essential services for low-income residents, and tangible advancements in housing, food security, healthcare, and education within Alachua County. Measurable results could include an increase in the number of individuals served by recipient organizations, improved quality or accessibility of services, and the successful completion of capacity-building projects or infrastructure upgrades. The grant period, running from October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025, provides a clear timeframe for the implementation and evaluation of these projects.

The Kansas City Outdoor Dining Enhancement Grant Program, under the leadership of Mayor Quinton Lucas and Councilman Wes Rogers, offers financial support to enhance permanent and multi-season outdoor dining spaces for restaurants in Kansas City, Missouri. The program aims to foster a vibrant restaurant industry, contributing to a thriving local economy and community-oriented neighborhoods. Eligible restaurants can receive grants of up to $15,000 for outdoor dining enhancements such as building structures, infrastructure improvements, and the purchase of furniture and coverings. Eligibility criteria include being a private, for-profit, full-service restaurant located in Kansas City, Missouri, possessing necessary licenses and permits, and having been in business for at least one year. Applications are accepted from July 29 to August 16, 2024, with selections announced in September 2024.

The WeHo Community Arts Grant, offered by the City of West Hollywood, aims to support nonprofit arts organizations, individual artists, or artist collectives that have a history of supporting LGBQ, BIPOC, and/or female artists and audiences. This grant aligns with the City's mission to enhance the community through art-centered presentations and participatory programs, fostering cultural equity and providing access to specific communities. The overall strategic priority is to use the arts as a tool for community engagement, cultural recognition, and economic development within West Hollywood. The target beneficiaries of this grant are LA County-based artists, collectives, or non-profit arts organizations that meet specific criteria, including a history of supporting underrepresented groups in the arts. The grant specifically focuses on engaging West Hollywood residents and visitors, expanding arts audiences, and recognizing local cultural resources. The impact goals are to increase access to quality arts programming that is financially and geographically accessible, boost revenues for local businesses through arts-business partnerships, and generally increase participation in the arts through education. The grant prioritizes art-centered presentations and workshops that support community goals through cultural equity. Eligible projects must take place within West Hollywood or immediately adjacent areas and applicants must demonstrate a marketing and outreach strategy targeting West Hollywood residents. The City's theory of change appears to be that by investing in accessible and inclusive arts programming, they can create a more vibrant, engaged, and culturally equitable community, leading to broader social and economic benefits. Expected outcomes include increased engagement of residents and visitors with the arts, expanded arts audiences, and the discovery of new places for artmaking. Measurable results could include an increase in attendance at arts events, a rise in local business revenues attributed to arts programming, and a greater number of individuals participating in arts education. The total available funding for this category is $30,000, with a maximum award of $6,000 per organization, demonstrating a commitment to funding multiple impactful projects within the community.

The James City County Stormwater and Resource Protection has initiated the Clean Water Heritage Grant program, aiming to promote the proper maintenance of privately owned neighborhood drainage systems and private stormwater management facilities, also known as Best Management Practices (BMPs). This program is designed to support the safety and general welfare of all County residents by ensuring these systems are well-maintained. The grant is open to a range of applicants, including Non-HOA Neighborhoods, HOAs with Public Roads, and HOAs with Private Roads within James City County, Virginia. The core mission of the Clean Water Heritage Grant aligns with safeguarding both citizens and property from the negative impacts of runoff. By focusing on drainage systems that move runoff safely through residential areas and stormwater management facilities that reduce runoff quantity and improve water quality, the program directly addresses critical environmental and public safety concerns. The target beneficiaries are residents and property owners within James City County, with the overarching impact goal of fostering a healthier and safer community through improved water management and infrastructure maintenance. The program prioritizes addressing non-routine maintenance and repairs for both drainage systems and BMPs. It offers several types of grants: Inspection Grants, which support inventorying, mapping, and inspecting existing drainage structures for operational condition; Repair & Maintenance Grants for general drainage system upkeep; and BMP Repair & Maintenance Grants specifically for stormwater management facilities. This structured approach ensures that both preventive and corrective measures are supported, allowing for comprehensive care of these vital systems. Expected outcomes include a more resilient local infrastructure capable of effectively managing stormwater, leading to reduced flooding and improved water quality across the county. Measurable results will be seen through the number of inspected and repaired drainage systems and BMPs, the documented improvements in their operating conditions, and the extent to which these efforts contribute to overall community safety and environmental health. The funding structure, with varying award limits and cost-sharing percentages (e.g., up to $6,000 for inspections with a 75%-25% JCC-Owner split, and up to $50,000 for maintenance and repairs with a 50%-50% split), further encourages shared responsibility and investment in these critical infrastructure improvements.

The Thrive Business Grant (TBG) is a program by the Trophy Club Economic Development Corporation aimed at supporting local businesses through reimbursable matching grants. The initiative focuses on enhancing the visual appeal and competitiveness of businesses in Trophy Club, driving economic growth and community prosperity. In 2023, the EDC allocated $300,000 to launch this program, supporting projects like façade improvements, interior renovations, and equipment purchases to maintain the town's charm and stimulate customer growth. Eligible applicants include property owners and tenants in Trophy Club who meet specific criteria such as being current on taxes, having no municipal liens, and adhering to local and state regulations. The application process involves Town Council approval, with a timeline starting on May 28, 2024, and deadlines on September 30, 2024, for applications, followed by reviews and tentative approval dates in December 2024. Projects must start within six months of grant receipt and funds are provided as reimbursements post-completion.

The "2024 Workplace Safety Grants for Health Care Entities" program is designed to enhance safety in healthcare environments through grants supporting projects focused on training staff in de-escalation and positive support services and increasing safety measures. Authorized by 2023 Session Law, Chapter 70, Article 4, Section 109, it aims for long-term improvements in safety and stability for both staff and patients. The program will distribute funds competitively, with anticipated multiple funding cycles depending on fund availability. The total program funding allocated is $4,400,000, with this cycle's estimated amount at $1,500,000 aimed to support around 30 awards.

This grant provides financial support to individuals, businesses, and organizations in Denver to create projects that promote active living, such as improving walkability and bikeability in their neighborhoods.

This funding opportunity is designed to help organizations create or expand clean energy training programs, particularly for individuals from disadvantaged communities and those facing employment barriers.

The Alachua County Small Farmer Grant Program is a mini-grant initiative funded by the County Commission, designed to support Alachua County-based small farms and ranches. The program aims to promote local food system economic resilience and equity, particularly for marginalized communities. This grant differs from traditional reimbursement models by offering an immediate infusion of funds upon award, recognizing that small producers may lack the immediate cash flow for capital equipment. The total funding available for this mini-grant is approximately $100,000, with individual grant requests not exceeding $5,000. The primary target beneficiaries are small producers (farms, ranches, or other agricultural operations) within Alachua County that produce foodstuffs for human consumption and have annual gross cash income between $1,000 and $250,000. There is a strong prioritization for small producers with an annual gross cash income of no more than $75,000. Furthermore, the program specifically prioritizes black, women, indigenous, and persons-of-color owned agricultural operations, aligning with broader goals of economic equity and community support. The program's key priorities and focuses include assisting Alachua County residents and supporting the immediate acquisition of capital infrastructure and equipment. This direct funding approach is intended to enhance the farm's productive capability and financial expansion, addressing a critical need for small producers who may struggle with upfront costs. The grant is not a cost reimbursement grant, emphasizing its role in providing immediate financial support. Expected outcomes and measurable results revolve around improving the economic viability of these small producers and increasing the resiliency of local food production. The program also aims to expand the production of related value-added farm products. Ultimately, these efforts are designed to achieve the Board's policies related to economic development, specifically by increasing economic prosperity, economic equity, and fostering a diverse tax base within Alachua County.

The Town of Olathe has received a Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI) grant from the Department of Local Affairs (DOLA), aimed at revitalizing its Main Street and supporting local retail businesses. This grant directly aligns with a mission to foster economic development and community prosperity in rural areas by providing financial assistance for critical business improvements. The program’s focus on storefront enhancements and accessibility modifications is designed to create a more vibrant and economically robust town center, ultimately benefiting the entire community. The target beneficiaries for this grant are businesses located in the 200 and 300 blocks of Olathe’s Main Street, as well as retail businesses along Highway 50 Business Loop. The primary impact goal is to stimulate local commerce, attract more customers, and enhance the overall aesthetic appeal and functionality of the town’s commercial core. By supporting these businesses, the grant intends to create a more attractive and accessible environment for residents and visitors alike, fostering sustained economic growth. The grant prioritizes a range of physical improvements, including awning repair or replacement, new or updated business signs, and comprehensive façade improvements such as storefront repairs, window replacement, and the rehabilitation of historic architectural features. Additionally, modifications to improve business accessibility are a key focus, ensuring that the revitalized spaces are inclusive for all patrons. The grant explicitly excludes roof and foundation work, directing funds toward highly visible and impactful street-level enhancements. Expected outcomes of the REDI grant include increased foot traffic and sales for participating businesses, a significant improvement in the visual appeal of Main Street and the Highway 50 Business Loop, and a strengthened local economy. Measurable results will likely involve tracking the number of businesses that undergo improvements, the types of improvements made, and potentially, local sales tax revenue increases or new business establishments in the targeted areas. The strategic priority is to leverage this funding to create a ripple effect, encouraging further private investment and community engagement in Olathe’s ongoing revitalization efforts.

The Women's Entrepreneur Grant Opportunity aims to support women-owned businesses in Fairfax City by providing consultation and capacity-building services to facilitate their growth, expansion, and development. Eligible businesses can receive services valued at up to $5,000, which cover areas such as marketing, operations, accounting, and finance. The grant funds will be awarded upfront, and recipients will be notified by September 20, 2024, with recognition at the Women’s Entrepreneur Empowerment Luncheon on September 25, 2024. To be eligible, businesses must be at least 51% owned and controlled by women, licensed within Fairfax City, and can be home-based or have one or more locations within the city. Start-ups and expanding businesses are also eligible, while non-profits are not. The application process involves verifying eligibility, completing and submitting the application form, identifying required services, obtaining quotes, and undergoing a review based on merit.

This program provides matching funds to small businesses in Decatur, Georgia, to improve their digital marketing efforts and enhance their online presence.

The Border-to-Border Broadband Development Grant Program and the Low-Density Population Pilot Program, established by the Minnesota legislature in 2014 and continued in 2023, are aimed at promoting broadband infrastructure expansion in Minnesota's unserved or underserved areas. Managed by the State of Minnesota, Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), these programs provide grants to assist broadband providers with the costs of infrastructure installation. The 2024 grant application cycle, announced by DEED, will open on March 12, 2024, with an application deadline of May 10, 2024. Applicants must register and submit applications via DEED’s Grants Management System, following the detailed instructions on DEED's website. The announcement of awards is anticipated in Summer 2024, with project completion required by December 31, 2026. DEED also hosts an information webinar to guide applicants through the application process.

Groundwork Grants, developed in partnership with Myriad Consulting & Training and funded by the California State Library, aims to provide essential financial support to institutions that document the experiences of individuals, groups, and communities whose contributions to California's history and culture have been historically underrepresented. This program directly aligns with a broader mission to safeguard California's cultural heritage in its most inclusive form for future generations. By focusing on underrepresented narratives, the grant supports a more complete and equitable understanding of the state's diverse past and present. The target beneficiaries for this grant program are organizations that document historically underserved and underrepresented communities. This includes, but is not limited to, African American, Asian American, Hispanic/Latinx, Native American groups, persons with disabilities, those experiencing poverty or homelessness, veterans, farmworkers, LGBTQ+ individuals, senior residents, immigrants, refugees, and rural communities. The program's impact goals are to address identified needs related to emergency readiness within these institutions, reduce response and recovery costs in the event of a disaster, and ultimately ensure the long-term preservation of invaluable cultural heritage assets. The grant prioritizes institutions that represent or document these historically underserved communities. Additionally, priority is given to organizations that have recently undergone preservation assessments, particularly those incorporating disaster readiness, through a Ready or Not consultation or other qualified preservation consultants. This focus on both inclusive representation and proactive disaster preparedness ensures that the most vulnerable and vital cultural heritage assets are protected. Expected outcomes include improved emergency readiness among cultural institutions, a reduction in the economic burden of disaster response and recovery, and the enhanced safeguarding of California's cultural heritage. Measurable results will stem from the allocation of over $1 million in competitive funding for the first round, with maximum individual awards of $15,000. Support options include assistance in disaster plan development, disaster recovery and spill kits, preservation supplies, environmental monitoring equipment, staff training, consultations with facilities specialists, and supplies for minor building maintenance or security needs. The emphasis on practical support aims to directly address and mitigate risks to cultural heritage.

ACCESS GRANTED is a grant initiative aimed at supporting and empowering small minority and/or women-owned businesses in Frederick, Maryland. The program targets both start-ups and established businesses needing capital for specific projects that will promote business growth. The City of Frederick has allocated $400,000 for these grants, as part of the American Rescue Plan Act's State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (ARPA-SLFRF). Eligible businesses can apply for up to $40,000 to cover project costs such as equipment, renovations, inventory, professional services, marketing, and more. The goal is to enhance revenue, profitability, and business opportunities without replacing lost revenues. The application process for ACCESS GRANTED opens on July 15, 2024, and closes on August 12, 2024. Applications will be reviewed competitively, with awards distributed by early fall 2024. To be eligible, businesses must be registered for-profit entities in Maryland, in good standing, and have no more than 25 full-time equivalent employees. Preferences will be given to minority and women-owned businesses located within The City of Frederick. Award recipients must submit interim and final reports on the project's impact.

This grant provides $25,000 to U.S.-based small businesses in the professional services sector to improve their operational flexibility and address challenges related to remote work and shipping efficiency.

This program provides financial support to Native-led arts and cultural organizations in the U.S. to strengthen their operations and promote Indigenous arts and culture.

This program provides financial support to New Mexico-based small businesses with federal SBIR or STTR grants, helping them commercialize innovative technologies and grow their market presence.

Focuses on funding new initiatives or expanding existing workforce training programs and studies in the offshore wind sector, with an emphasis on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEIJ) principles.

The Black Equity & Excellence Fund, established by the Central New York Community Foundation, is dedicated to supporting community-based projects that foster self-sufficiency and enhance the physical and economic well-being of the Black community in Central New York. This initiative aligns with the Foundation's broader mission to strengthen race-related matters and promote social and educational growth within the community. By investing in projects that directly address the unique needs and challenges faced by Black residents, the fund aims to create a more equitable and thriving environment, reflecting the Foundation's strategic priority of community development and social justice. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are organizations and projects that explicitly serve the Black community, particularly in Onondaga and Madison counties. The overarching impact goal is to improve the quality of life for Black individuals and families through various interventions. The program aims to empower the Black community by building upon existing capabilities and addressing systemic disparities. This is achieved by focusing on specific interest areas that have been identified as crucial for community advancement and well-being. The fund prioritizes projects within several key focus areas, including Black Creatives, Black Leadership + Advancement, Black LGBTQIA+, Black Mental Wellness, Black Legacy + Generational Wealth, Black Business, Black Maternal Health, Black Civic Engagement, Black Youth + Students, and Black Tech. These areas reflect the Foundation's theory of change, which posits that targeted investments in these sectors will lead to holistic development and greater equity. Projects are encouraged to contribute to dialogue that strengthens race-related matters and supports social and educational growth, indicating a strategic approach to fostering long-term, sustainable change. Expected outcomes include increased self-sufficiency, improved physical and economic conditions, and enhanced community well-being within the Black community. Measurable results are tied to the types of projects funded, with different funding levels supporting various initiatives, from grassroots efforts and pilot programs to the expansion of existing projects and large capital projects. The eligibility criteria, which mandate Black leadership in senior executive positions and at least 51% Black board membership, further ensure that the projects are community-led and responsive to the needs of the Black population, thereby maximizing impact and fostering authentic community empowerment.