Grants for Small businesses - Education

This funding opportunity supports innovative cancer research projects that explore new treatments, diagnostics, and strategies to reduce disparities in cancer care, targeting a wide range of researchers and institutions.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to organizations that empower young leaders in Southeast Asia to tackle climate change and environmental challenges through leadership training, collaboration, and capacity-building initiatives.

The Greenhouse Accelerator Program Juntos Crecemos Edition is a five-month, mentor-guided initiative designed to accelerate emerging Hispanic food and beverage innovations. This program, an extension of the initial Greenhouse Accelerator launched in 2018, is a collaborative effort with PepsiCo Juntos Crecemos, which is part of PepsiCo’s Pep+ transformation agenda. The overarching mission is to provide both short-term and long-term support to Hispanic small businesses, aligning with PepsiCo's broader strategic priorities of driving growth for Hispanic founders within the food and beverage industry in the U.S. and fostering a positive impact through its PepsiCo Positive Strategy. The primary target beneficiaries of this program are up to eight high-potential, emerging Hispanic-owned food and beverage consumer packaged goods small businesses operating in the United States, with net-revenues between $100,000 to $2,000,000 USD in their last financial year. The impact goals are centered on fostering the growth and scalability of these businesses. By providing grants, expert guidance, networking opportunities, and mentorship, the program aims to accelerate pathways for these businesses to launch, scale, and grow their breakthrough innovations, ultimately contributing to the economic empowerment of Hispanic founders. The program prioritizes businesses that demonstrate a clear go-to-market strategy, are post-prototype and ready for review with a multinational corporation, exhibit uniqueness in the market, and possess balanced gender and ethnic diversity. A strong emphasis is also placed on a clear and active social responsibility mission that aligns with PepsiCo’s Juntos Crecemos Strategy and the broader PepsiCo Positive Strategy. The selection committee will also look for scalable business models, indicating the program's focus on long-term sustainability and impact. Expected outcomes include a guaranteed $20,000 USD grant for each finalist, with the winner receiving an additional $100,000 USD, providing crucial financial support. Beyond monetary grants, participants are expected to benefit from expert guidance through learning modules across all aspects of business development, hands-on mentorship for refining business models and strategies, and enhanced impact. The program also offers invaluable access and exposure to the extensive PepsiCo network, industry experts, VCs, and investors, as well as the unlocking of potential collaboration opportunities with PepsiCo. These measurable results collectively aim to strengthen and expand Hispanic-owned businesses in the food and beverage sector.

The Energy CLASS (Champions Leading the Advancement of Sustainable Schools) Prize is a grant opportunity offered by the U.S. Department of Energy State and Community Energy Program Office (SCEP). The prize aims to support local education agencies in establishing and training energy managers to identify, plan, and implement efficiency and health upgrades in schools. With $80 million available, the grant will help schools across the country lower utility costs, improve indoor environmental quality, and reduce carbon emissions. The Energy CLASS Prize consists of two phases. In Phase 1, up to 25 selected LEAs will receive $100,000 in cash prizes to support participation in a 12-month training program. In Phase 2, participants will undergo 80-160 hours of online educational courses and receive one-on-one support and coaching related to building upgrades. At the end of Phase 2, participants can submit a progress report and a plan for future building upgrades for a chance to win a $50,000 bonus prize. To apply, LEAs need to submit a statement of need, letters of support, and demonstrate their commitment to making building energy upgrades. Interested applicants should review the official rules for complete application instructions. For updates or questions, applicants can subscribe on the HeroX platform or contact the Energy CLASS Prize team directly at [email protected].

This funding opportunity supports research projects aimed at improving the management of multiple chronic diseases in low- and middle-income countries and American Indian/Alaska Native populations in the U.S. through innovative, community-centered healthcare strategies.

This funding opportunity supports research to improve cancer care and outcomes for sexual and gender minority survivors by addressing their unique challenges and engaging community partners in the process.

The Illinois Energy Transition Navigators Program, funded by the state's Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, aims to establish a network of community-based providers throughout Illinois to facilitate community education, outreach, and recruitment. These providers will connect individuals to clean energy workforce and contractor development programs, with a focus on equity investment eligible communities and individuals. The program has a budget of $6 million and expects to award 13 grants ranging from $250,000 to $600,000. It targets specific hub regions and operates on a rolling, first-come, first-served basis.

This funding opportunity supports new entrepreneurs in small businesses by providing resources for their career development and research efforts, helping them to grow their skills in technology development and healthcare delivery.

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.

This funding opportunity supports partnerships between Minnesota educational institutions and MedTech businesses to develop training programs focused on AI and advanced technologies, enhancing workforce skills and job opportunities in the sector.

U.S. Embassy Lilongwes Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) is pleased to announce that we are accepting proposals for our Small Grants Program. This announcement is an Annual Program Statement outlining our funding priorities, the strategic themes on which we focus, and the procedures for submitting funding requests. Please read this document carefully and follow all instructions. This notice is subject to the availability of funding. Purpose of Small Grants: PDS invites proposals for projects that strengthen ties between the United States and Malawi through programming that highlights shared values and promotes bilateral cooperation. All programs must include an American cultural element or connection with American expert/s, organization/s, or institution/s in a specific field that will promote increased understanding of U.S. policies and perspectives in Malawi. Examples of programs implemented through the PDS Small Grants Program include, but are not limited to: • U.S. experts conducting lectures, seminars, or speaking tours with Malawian audiences • Artistic and cultural workshops, joint performances, and exhibitions • Professional and academic exchanges and programs • Cultural heritage conservation and preservation programs • Programs developed by an alumnus/a of a U.S. sponsored or supported educational or professional exchange program • Initiatives aimed at maintaining contact with alumni of U.S. exchange programs • Projects to promote English language teaching skills or widen access to books and other sources of information about the United States Priority Program Areas: • Promote good governance and rule of law • Facilitate and encourage growth of entrepreneurship • Promote gender equality to increase participation in education and improved health decision-making by adolescent girls and young women • Increase transparency of government activities through a more capable media • Support and improve conditions for vulnerable and marginalized citizens, such as the disabled, people living with albinism, and those subject to stigma or persecution • Prevent gender-based violence and trafficking in persons • Promote stronger, more numerous university partnerships between U.S. and Malawian universities PDS will ONLY consider proposals that contain a significant American component or aspect. This could include, but is not limited to, an American expert as a speaker, using curriculum developed by a U.S. institution, or screening an American film.

The Roddenberry Prize is a $1 million grant awarded to early-stage scientific or technology ventures using AI and machine learning to contribute to a more equitable and prosperous world, with a focus on solutions that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

This grant provides funding to Maine-based agricultural producers, processors, and organizations to enhance the capacity and resilience of the food supply chain through the purchase of essential equipment.

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.

This funding opportunity is designed to empower emerging leaders in the space sector across the Middle East and North Africa by providing training and resources to enhance collaboration with the United States in space policy and commerce.

This funding opportunity supports experienced laboratory scientists engaged in cancer research within NCI-funded projects, providing salary support and travel funds to enhance their contributions without requiring them to become independent investigators.

The Rural STEM Network Grant VI, administered by the Nevada Governor’s Office of Science, Innovation, and Technology (OSIT), aims to support innovative initiatives that help develop a diverse workforce in Rural Nevada with the skills and education needed by STEM industries. Projects should address increased participation in high-quality STEM programs from underserved groups, raise awareness about STEM opportunities, and ensure high-quality STEM education with engaged business partners across all counties, cities, and districts. Funding is available up to $50,000, with applications due by June 28, 2024. Eligible projects include pilot programs, scaling up existing programs, or extending successful initiatives from other regions.

Grant Opportunity: Outdoor Education Partnership III Description: The Chippewa Nature Center and U.S Fish and Wildlife Service are collaborating to restore wetland, grassland, and pollinator habitat as outdoor classrooms on school lands in the 22 County Saginaw Bay Watershed. County or city-owned lands can also be developed as outdoor education areas if local schools can incorporate them into their curriculum. The projects will be funded through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program, with an average cost of $2,000 per acre for restoration. Priority will be given to schools, and each project will include a customized curriculum guide, lessons, supplies, and teacher training. Grant Opportunity: Great Mural Project Description: The Downtown Saginaw Association is leading the Great Mural Project, which aims to transform eyesores or forgotten spaces in Saginaw with beautiful murals and community art installations. The project focuses on sustainability, the river system, non-motorized trails, and other WIN investment projects. WIN will provide a small advisory committee to support the project. Grant Opportunity: Places Create Stories : The Power of Nature Description: Heart of the Lakes and Little Forks Conservancy are partnering to develop a media project that highlights the value of nature from an economic and community perspective. The project aims to create three short videos that emphasize the importance of nature for community character, job retention/recruitment, and economic development. The videos will be distributed through land conservancies and can be tailored for different groups' use. Grant Opportunity: Nature Kindergarten Pilot Description: This grant supports the development of a nature-based kindergarten pilot project at Bullock Creek Schools in cooperation with Chippewa Nature Center. Building on the success of a nature-based preschool program at Chippewa Nature Center, this pilot project aims to incorporate nature-based learning into two kindergarten classrooms. Grant Opportunity: MI Great Bay Regional Tourism Marketing & Development Phase 1 Description: This project seeks funding

The NAACP x BACARDI are working together to provide dedicated support under-represented minorities in the beverage alcohol service, sales and hospitality industries. Backing the B.A.R. is an NAACP initiative that is awarding over $100,000 in acceleration grants, education, support and entrepreneurship solutions for minority-owned bars, restaurants, nightclubs, lounges, liquor stores and small businesses in the process of applying for a liquor license. If you are a minority-owned business owner with a liquor license or real liquor license aspirations - and you need financial, educational or mentorship support, please apply here. Ideal grant recipients are looking for support in accelerating their business for the future.

The National Press Foundation is offering the Covering Equitable Community Development Journalism Fellowship, an expenses-paid program designed to enhance journalists' ability to report on equitable community development. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission to support and educate journalists, specifically by equipping them to investigate the intersection of policy, public and private financing, and calls for equitable housing, parks, and other community assets. The program aims to address the critical need for comprehensive and nuanced reporting on how resources are allocated and what initiatives receive support within various regions. The target beneficiaries of this fellowship are U.S.-based journalists working across print, TV, radio, or online media, with a particular encouragement for those who cover race and metro beats. The program emphasizes diversity and welcomes applicants from across the nation. The impact goal is to empower these journalists to better understand and report on pervasive racial gaps and the policies and investments in their communities related to health, wealth, and overall community well-being. By providing specialized training, the fellowship seeks to foster a more informed public discourse on community development issues. The fellowship's priorities and focuses include an immersive exploration into community development issues, especially in the context of small and mid-sized cities. The program will delve into how financing and investing institutions—such as community development financial institutions (CDFIs), philanthropic impact investors, private banks, and other investors—prioritize projects. It will also examine how policymakers and public officials can actively involve residents in decision-making and ensure accountability for anti-racist practices in the community development sector. Other key topics include identifying conditions that lead to healthier, more equitable communities with access to essential resources like affordable housing, education, and healthcare, as well as addressing environmental justice as a community development issue. The expected outcomes and measurable results of this fellowship include equipping journalists with the knowledge and context to add breadth to their coverage of community development. By bringing together experts from health equity, nonprofit, policy, financing, and community organizing sectors, the program anticipates that fellows will gain a deeper understanding of complex issues. While specific measurable results are not explicitly stated as quantitative metrics, the qualitative outcome is a more capable and informed journalistic body that can investigate and report on community development effectively, potentially leading to increased public awareness and accountability in these areas.