Local Business and Commerce Grants

Applicants are invited to apply for the ARPA Aid to Nonprofits Grant (Round 5). Donor Name: United Way of Walworth County State: Wisconsin County: Walworth County (WI) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 06/14/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The United Way of Walworth County (UWWC) is an ARPA Subrecipient through Walworth County. UWWC is administering the disbursement of $48,442.29 in the ARPA Aid to Nonprofits Round 5 to local nonprofit (501c3 and 501c19) organizations to mitigate the negative economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic from March 3, 2021 – September 30, 2024. Funding Information Amount non-profit can request: $1,000 to $9,000. Eligibility Criteria  Agency is a 501(c)3 or 501(c)19 non-profit organization Agency’s principal place of business is in Walworth County Agency business is conducted in Walworth County Agency serves people within Walworth County Agency has a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number (or is actively working on obtaining UEI number, must have UEI number before any award checks are disbursed) Agency has experienced negative economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic from March 3, 2021 – September 30, 2024. For more information, visit UWWC.

The City of Somerville’s New Small Business Vitality Grant offers up to 12 months of rental support for physical storefronts. Donor Name: City of Somerville State: Massachusetts City: Somerville Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 05/15/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: Priority Applications During the review process, priority points will be given to: Businesses that have not received funding from the City or State previously (1 point) Businesses that are opening this storefront as a result of business displacement. Displacement is defined as: a business had to close its previous location as a result of the business storefront relocating from an “act of God” or extreme rental increase since April 2020. Documentation of rent increase from previous location required. Evaluation will be case-by-case as rent structures are varied (1 point) Immigrant-owned/women-owned/black, indigenous, people of color–owned (BIPOC)/ veteran-owned/lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBTQIA)-owned/disability-owned business enterprises (1 point) Businesses within a Qualified Census Tract (QCT) (1 point) Businesses with fewer than 5 full-time employees (1 point) Somerville resident-owned business enterprises  (1 point) Funding Information Funding will be up to $50,000 in rental support, covering both past and future rent expenses with a limit of 12 months. Eligibility Criteria Eligible Applicants Eligibility requirements for the New Small Business Vitality Grant include: The Business must be physically located in Somerville, Massachusetts. The Business must have opened a new storefront to the public on or after January 2023, or has leased a vacant space and is intending to open a new storefront in 2024. The Business must be a physical (brick-and-mortar) storefront; home-based businesses are not eligible. The Business must have fewer than 20 full-time employees. The Business must have a lease agreement for at least one year following the grant award. The Business must be operating in 5 or fewer locations. The Business must not meet the definition of formula retail – franchises, including independently owned locations, are not eligible for this Program. The Business must agree that if awarded, the Business will prioritize hiring local Somerville, MA residents, with a preference for low to moderate-income individuals when possible and suitable. For more information, visit City of Somerville.

The Community Engagement Cluster and the Office of Grants Management are soliciting grant applications under the County’s FY 2024 Place-Based Management Grants Program from qualified organizations that support economic growth and revitalization initiatives across the County’s commercial corridors, both nascent and established. Donor Name: Montgomery County Office of Grants Management State: Maryland County: Montgomery County (MD) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 05/08/2024 Size of the Grant: $100,000 to $500,000 Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: The focus of the grants program is to enhance bottom-up economic development efforts serving residents and businesses by using Place-Based Management strategies aligned with the Main Street Approach. Generally, activities are envisioned to fall into the following two categories: Provision of assistance to commercial areas to retain, expand, and attract neighborhood-serving retail and other small businesses; and Unification and strengthening of commercial corridors through events, promotion, marketing, maintenance, and diverse stakeholder engagements. All activities are required to actively engage with stakeholders, including residents, businesses, and the Montgomery County Government. Funding Priorities Priority in awarding funding will be given to projects which provide services or meet needs that fall under at least three of the four points of the Main Street Approach: Economic Vitality focuses on capital, incentives, and other economic and financial tools to assist new and existing businesses, catalyze property development, and create a supportive environment for entrepreneurs and innovators that drive local economies. Design supports a community’s transformation by enhancing the physical and visual assets that set the commercial district apart. Promotion positions the downtown or commercial district as the center of the community and hub of economic activity, while creating a positive image that showcases a community’s unique characteristics. Organization involves creating a strong foundation for a sustainable revitalization effort, including cultivating partnerships, community involvement, and resources for the district. Funding Information Montgomery County Government anticipates awarding $400,000 through approximately two to five awards. It is anticipated that each grant award may range between $25,000 and $200,000. The final amount will be dependent upon grant activities and final negotiation and may be lower or higher than the range. The duration of any grant award under this solicitation is expected to be 12 months with possibility for renewal for up to three total years contingent on satisfactory performance and funds availability Eligible Expenses  Eligible expenses under this grants program include operating costs defined as costs that support ongoing expenditures associated with projects. Illustrative operating expenses include but are not limited to: Administrative expenses to fund a Program Manager and support staff Community or business outreach Implementation of neighborhood economic development activities Neighborhood place making and place management. Target Populations The target populations for this grant are businesses and residents of the identified commercial corridor. Eligibility Criteria  Applicants must meet all the following conditions: The organization must have a Federal 501(c)(3), 501(c)(6) tax-exempt status or be a collaboration between two or more entities with at least one having this status; The organization must be currently registered and in Good Standing with the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT); All activities and expenditures under this grant program must be provided in Montgomery County OR be exclusively for Montgomery County residents if activities and expenditures occur outside of the County; Current Montgomery County contract or grant award winners must be current on all reporting obligations for other awards and those reports must reflect substantial progress towards the goals of their awards; Proposed expenses must be for a new activity, expansion of existing activities, or a combination of both. County funding cannot be used to supplant other funding for already planned activities; Applicants may only submit one application per organization under this NOFO; Organizations that were funded under this program last year are eligible to apply. If submitting a multi-year application, please note that FY23 counts as Year 1. As such, they may submit applications that request funding for up to two more years. For more information, visit Montgomery County Office of Grants Management.

The Cultural STAR Capital Project program provides grants to acquire or upgrade physical assets such as buildings and equipment. Such activities must have the potential for significant or long-term impact and the expenditures must be depreciable. Donor Name: City of Saint Paul State: Minnesota City: Saint Paul Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 05/15/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: 2 Years Details: The purpose of the Cultural STAR fund is to promote cultural vitality and economic growth, particularly in the downtown Cultural District, by strengthening the arts and culture community. Cultural STAR dollars are intended to: Build and diversify audiences; Promote a broad range of cultural offerings; Produce a long-term impact; and Leverage additional financial support. The Cultural STAR Program will achieve the purpose by making grants and loans for projects and programs that: Attract audiences; Develop and improve cultural facilities; and Build capacity of artists and cultural organizations. Geographic Focus – Cultural District At least 80% of Cultural STAR funds will be awarded to nonprofit organizations that are located within the targeted area known as the Cultural District of downtown Saint Paul. The remaining 20% of funds may be allocated to: For-profit businesses located in the Cultural District for projects that enhance visitor enjoyment of the Cultural District; or Nonprofit organizations located in Saint Paul but outside of the Cultural District. The Cultural District is defined as the geographic area bordered by Interstate 94 to the north, the Lafayette Bridge to the east, Harriet and Raspberry Islands to the south, and Chestnut Road to the west. Located in the Cultural District includes: An organization that is registered with the Minnesota Secretary of State with an address that falls within the Cultural District; or An organization which owns property in the Cultural District for purposes directly related to its Cultural STAR project; or An organization has secured a lease or rental agreement within the Cultural District for the purposes directly related to its Cultural STAR project; or An organization has secured a permit or contract for the use of Public Venues in the Cultural District for the purpose directly related to its Cultural STAR Project. Located in Saint Paul includes: An organization that is registered with the Minnesota Secretary of State with an address that falls within Saint Paul; or An organization that owns property in Saint Paul for purposes directly related to its Cultural STAR project; or An organization that has secured a lease or rental agreement within Saint Paul for the purposes directly related to its Cultural STAR project; or An organization has secured a permit or contract for the use of Public Venues in Saint Paul for the purpose directly related to its Cultural STAR Project. Loans and grants are available for capital projects; grants alone are available for organizational development and special projects. Funding Information Estimated Available Funding in 2024: In Cultural District: $796,366 Outside Cultural District, and For-profit businesses with projects in the Cultural District: $199,091 The minimum grant request is $5,000. Project Period Earliest Project Start Date: August 1, 2024  Latest Project End Date: July 31, 2026 Eligibility Criteria Eligible applicants may apply for only one of the following Cultural STAR funding types during each funding round: Special Projects Grant; Organizational Development Grant; or Capital Project Grant. Grants can be received only once per calendar year. Saint Paul-based nonprofit arts and cultural organizations located outside of the Cultural District may apply twice per round and may receive funding up to two times per calendar year – once for projects taking place outside of the Cultural District and once for projects taking place in the Cultural District. Applicant groups must be one of the following: Nonprofit arts and cultural organizations that are located within the City of Saint Paul Any public, private or nonprofit entities that are located within the City of Saint Paul City departments or divisions are eligible when applying in partnership with an eligible organization The following are not eligible to apply Churches or religious organizations Political parties and related political action groups Federal, state, and county agencies and departments Organizations that received funding in the first funding round of the calendar year. For more information, visit City of Saint Paul.

The Re+ Circular Economy Grant Program supports projects that minimize waste, keep materials in use longer, and regenerate natural systems. Donor Name: King County Solid Waste Division (SWD) State: Washington County: King County (WA) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 05/29/2024 Size of the Grant: $100,000 to $500,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Focus Areas  The success of Re+ relies on both upstream prevention and downstream recycling actions, while also reducing inequities that persist in King County. Recognizing the need for a whole system approach, the Re+ Circular Economy Grant has two focus areas: Prevention and Reuse: This includes projects that reduce materials used or purchased, create infrastructure to use reusable products, increase food rescue, and promote sharing or donating items. Recycling: This includes projects that create or expand markets for recycled material (including organics) currently produced in the King County solid waste system. Grants could also support projects that improve the quality, increase the quantity, or increase the availability of recycling in residential or business communities. Priority materials Projects that address the following materials will be awarded higher points in the evaluation process: Plastic Paper Organics (includes food waste, yard waste, and wood). Funding Information Approximately $2.2 million in grant funding is available for the 2024-25 grant cycle. Minimum request amount: $20,000. Maximum request amount: $300,000. Project Eligibility To be eligible, projects must: Demonstrate an impact on King County’s solid waste system by reducing materials generated or being sent to Cedar Hills Regional Landfill. King County’s solid waste system serves all unincorporated areas and cities, excluding Seattle and Milton. Be implemented in King County and/or support communities in King County, excluding Seattle and Milton. Address materials that are otherwise disposed of, provide a higher use of materials, or focus on waste prevention. Projects that are not eligible include but are not limited to: Routine operation and maintenance costs Collection of garbage or household hazardous waste items Environmental clean-up of illegal activities (i.e. trash and litter cleanup) Environmental compliance remediation Lobbying and attempts to influence legislation Below are examples of projects that may be funded. This list is not all-inclusive. Projects that increase food rescue for human consumption. Projects that increase diverting food scraps for animal consumption. Projects that stimulate demand for reused or recycled materials and products. Projects that increase access to reuse programs or build reuse infrastructure and systems. Projects that increase the collection or processing capacity of recyclable materials. Projects that commercialize technologies to replace materials with recycled content to grow demand for utilizing recycled materials. Projects that research or develop new uses for recycled materials that demonstrate future diversion potential. Projects that increase access to recycling infrastructure. Projects that create or expand markets and supply chains for recycled materials. Who should apply? Nonprofit organizations Fiscally sponsored organizations Businesses Self-employed individuals Tribal governments Universities/colleges. For more information, visit King County Solid Waste Division (SWD).

The Doral Façade Improvement Grant Program provides financial assistance to businesses, homeowner associations and commercial property owners in Doral in order to stimulate private sector investment, beautification, economic growth and job creation in the City, by improving the appearance of the buildings within City boundaries. Donor Name: City of Doral State: Florida City: Doral Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 05/10/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The Doral Façade Improvement Program was initially created in 2012 to provide financial assistance to businesses and commercial owners to improve the appearance of buildings within the Doral Decor District. The program originally provided financial assistance by contributing 25% of the costs, in an amount that would not exceed $ 5,000 per project. In 2018, the geographical limits of the program were expanded by Mayor and City Council to cover the entire City of Doral and include the publicly visible entry features of homeowners’ associations. Funding Information The maximum amount of the grant was also increased to a 50% reimbursement of eligible renovation costs up to $ 10,000 per project. Eligible Improvements The program provides financial assistance for the following external “facelift” improvements: Siding/Stucco Walls/Fencing/Railings ADA improvements Pedestrian amenities Windows/Doors Awnings/Canopies Lighting Painting (no Building permit required) Signage Detached monument signs (Planning/Zoning review required) Sidewalks/Surface Parking  (Public Works permit required) Landscape/Xeriscape. For more information, visit City of Doral.

The Wichita County Community Foundation (WCCF), an affiliate of the Western Kansas Community Foundation, is seeking grant applications to enhance the quality of life in Wichita County. Donor Name: Wichita County Community Foundation State: Kansas County: Wichita County (KS) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 05/01/2024 Size of the Grant: Not Available Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The Foundation restricts its support to 501(c)(3) or other exempt organizations/groups or the government equivalent (i.e. public schools, city/county/state entities, churches, etc.), who serve Wichita County, Kansas. The Foundation encourages grant requests that: Will have a broad impact on the quality of life for a large number of people within the WCCF service area. Propose ways to address community issues and problems. Leverage other sources of support. Stimulate others to participate in addressing community issues. Are innovative, a new initiative, or an enhancement of an existing program. Are responsive to changing or emerging community needs. Are sustainable over time. Are collaborative with other organizations for a broader impact. Funding Ineligibility The board will not give consideration to: Grants to individuals. Operating or maintenance expenses (including salaries). Medical or scholarly research. Membership fees. Banquet or luncheon expenses. Ticket sales for charitable fund-raising efforts. Religious organizations for religious purposes. Travel expenses for groups, such as school classes, clubs, or sports teams. Capital debt reduction. Political lobbying or legislative activities. Use of and payment for services of a fiscal agent. Endowment establishment or enhancement. Umbrella funding organizations that would distribute requested funds at their own discretion. Marketing tools, such as water bottles, t-shirts, pens, etc. Give-away items for prizes/incentives. For more information, visit Wichita County Community Foundation.

The Organizational Development program provides grants for projects designed to strengthen the management, administration, or operations of the recipient organization Donor Name: City of Saint Paul State: Minnesota City: Saint Paul Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 05/15/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: The intent of the program is to challenge the organization, infuse new thinking, develop new systems, or strengthen existing systems to further the group’s growth and development. The purpose of the Cultural STAR fund is to promote cultural vitality and economic growth, particularly in the downtown Cultural District, by strengthening the arts and culture community. Such activities must 1) advance the mission of your group, and 2) have the potential for significant or long-term impact.  Cultural STAR dollars, are intended to: Build and diversify audiences; Promote a broad range of cultural offerings; Produce a long-term impact; and Leverage additional financial support. The Cultural STAR Program will achieve these purposes by making grants for projects and programs that: Attract audiences; Develop and improve cultural facilities; and Build capacity of artists and cultural organizations. Geographic Focus  At least 80% of Cultural STAR funds will be awarded to nonprofit organizations that are located within the targeted area known as the Cultural District of downtown Saint Paul. The remaining 20% of funds may be allocated to: Businesses located in the Cultural District for projects that enhance visitor enjoyment of the Cultural District; or Nonprofit organizations located in Saint Paul but outside of the Cultural District. The Cultural District is defined as the geographic area bordered by Interstate 94 to the north, the Lafayette Bridge to the east, Harriet and Raspberry Islands to the south, and Chestnut Road to the west. Located in the Cultural District includes:  An organization that is registered with the Minnesota Secretary of State with an address that falls within the Cultural District; or An organization which owns property in the Cultural District for purposes directly related to its Cultural STAR project; or An organization has secured a lease or rental agreement within the Cultural District for the purposes directly related to its Cultural STAR project; or An organization has secured a permit or contract for the use of Public Venues in the Cultural District for the purpose directly related to its Cultural STAR Project. Located in Saint Paul includes: An organization that is registered with the Minnesota Secretary of State with an address that falls within Saint Paul; or An organization owns property in Saint Paul for purposes directly related to its Cultural STAR project; or An organization that has secured a lease or rental agreement within Saint Paul for the purposes directly related to its Cultural STAR project; or An organization has secured a permit or contract for the use of Public Venues in Saint Paul for the purpose directly related to its Cultural STAR Project. Loans and grants are available for capital projects; grants alone are available for organizational development and special projects. Funding Information Estimated Available Funding in 2024: In Cultural District: $796,366 Outside Cultural District, and For-profit businesses with projects in the Cultural District: $199,091 The minimum grant request is $5,000. Project Period Earliest Project Start Date: August 1, 2024 Latest Project End Date: July 31, 2025 Eligibility Criteria Eligible applicants may apply for only one of the following Cultural STAR funding types during each funding round: Special Projects Grant; Organizational Development Grant; or Capital Project Grant or Loan. Grants can be received only once per calendar year. Saint Paul-based nonprofit arts and cultural organizations located outside of the Cultural District may apply twice per round and may receive funding up to two times per calendar year – once for projects taking place outside of the Cultural District and once for projects taking place in the Cultural District. Applicant groups must be one of the following: Nonprofit arts and cultural organizations that are located within the City of Saint Paul Informal and/or unincorporated arts-focused groups, individuals, and onetime arts projects that have associated with nonprofit arts and cultural organizations that are located within the City of Saint Paul and will serve as a fiscal and contract sponsor, provided that: (1) 100% of the project takes place in the Cultural District; and (2) such nonprofit arts and cultural organization enter into a contract with the City of Saint Paul Businesses in the Cultural District may apply for projects that enhance visitor enjoyment of the district City departments or divisions are eligible when in partnership with, or supported by, an eligible organization The following are not eligible to apply: Churches or religious organizations Political parties and related political action groups Federal, state, and county agencies and departments Organizations (other than those that have associated with informal and/or unincorporated arts-focused groups, individuals, and one-time arts projects, to serve as fiscal and contract sponsor as described in these Guidelines) that have received Organizational Development and/or Special Project grants in three consecutive grant cycles (calendar years) Organizations (other than those that have associated with informal and/or unincorporated arts-focused groups, individuals, and one-time arts projects, to serve as fiscal and contract sponsor as described in these Guidelines) that received funding in the first funding round of the calendar year. For more information, visit City of Saint Paul.

The Harford Strides Fund has $220,000 available as a temporary grant for up to two consecutive years to help tourism-related organizations, which are in the infancy stage of program development. Donor Name: Harford County Office of Economic Development State: Maryland County: Harford County (MD) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 05/03/2024 Size of the Grant: $100,000 to $500,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Eligibility Criteria  Must be a Harford County 501(c)3 or 501(c)6 in good standing with Maryland’s State Department of Assessment and Taxation AND a registered organization as a Maryland charitable organization. Must articulate successes, lessons learned, and other best practices in its business model, demonstrating how the organization is building toward a model for long-term sustainability as an easily identifiable tourism-related, collaborative program or operation that draws its audience from OUTSIDE the borders of Harford County and encourages overnight hotel stays. Must clearly articulate the intent of the applicant’s program or operations is to drive overnight hotel stays in Harford County. Must clearly document hardship that puts program or operations in jeopardy “but for County funding” and demonstrates that “but for this County contribution,” the organization would be unable to execute the program or operations as described for this year. Must clearly demonstrate the ability to pursue additional funding sources, other than Harford County Government, that support the program or event through sponsorship, another grant donor, fundraising efforts, etc. Must demonstrate a niche role in offering tourism-related program or operation. Must not have submitted an application for the Partnership Fund. For more information, visit HCOED.

The Department of Commerce launched the PHL Made Grant, a fund that contributes to the growth of manufacturing companies located in Philadelphia and promotes innovation in the industry. Donor Name: City of Philadelphia State: Pennsylvania City: Philadelphia Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 05/04/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: For the purpose of this grant program, the manufacturing industry is defined as companies engaged in the production of goods using tools, labor, and machinery. This includes but is not limited to companies producing consumer goods, industrial goods and medical devices. Funding Information Applicants can apply for a matching grant award amount of up to $30,000 per company. Eligibility Criteria  Company must be located in Philadelphia. Company must have been in operation for at least one year. Company must be engaged in the manufacturing of goods. Company must have funds to match grant requested. Funding Consideration   Companies that have a clear plan for how they will use the grant funds to improve their business operations, increase efficiency, and/or bring new products to market. Companies that maintain and/or create jobs with a commitment to hiring Philadelphia residents. Past PHL Made Grant awardees are eligible to apply if they have not received over $10,000 in PHL Made Grant funds in the last three years. For more information, visit City of Philadelphia.

Working with the Community Foundation of Otsego County, the group created a field of interest fund, the Advocates for Springfield Fund, to support the health and well-being of the Springfield community. Donor Name: Community Foundation of Otsego County State: New York City: Springfield Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 05/15/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: A local grassroots group created Advocates for Springfield to promote good land uses in its town. Since it began in the early 2000s, Advocates for Springfield has successfully encouraged the Town to adopt a comprehensive plan, a zoning ordinance, and other land use laws.  As the vision and actions of the Town’s governing bodies have aligned with the goals of the Advocates for Springfield, the group found it had worked itself out of a reason to exist. The group wanted its remaining financial resources to be put to good use for the benefit of Town residents. Funding Information Awards up to $500. The Community Foundation has allocated up to $1,500 for awards for 2024. Eligibility Criteria  Support for local nonprofit organizations that add to the fabric of the community, such as the volunteer fire department and the Library Funds to supplement summer jobs that benefit the community, especially in childhood education. Groups fiscally sponsored by a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization are eligible but must submit evidence of the sponsorship. They do not fund: direct grants to individuals. direct grants to businesses. For more information, visit CFOC.

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.

This grant provides financial support for property owners in the Village of Calumet to improve their buildings and enhance the downtown area's economic vitality through significant renovations.

On March 26, the Cook County/Grand Marais Economic Development Authority (EDA) and the Northland Small Business Development Center (SBDC) jointly announced the launch of a Promise Act grant opportunity tailored for business owners in northeastern Minnesota. Pat Campanaro, serving as the Cook County consultant for the Northland SBDC, expressed her pride and happiness regarding the collaboration between the EDA and SBDC. The competitive Promise Act grant initiative, sanctioned during the 2023 legislative session, aims to extend assistance to businesses and communities grappling with economic adversity induced by the pandemic. The Northland SBDC has allocated $1.1 million in grants for eligible small businesses and certain nonprofits in northeast Minnesota. The grant application criteria for businesses are delineated as follows: Grants are accessible to currently operating businesses with gross annual revenues ranging from $10,000 to $750,000, as substantiated by their 2021 and 2022 tax returns or Forms 990. Grant amounts will be determined based on 2022 revenues, with the following tiers: Revenues of at least $10,000 but not exceeding $100,000 may qualify for a $10,000 grant. Revenues ranging from at least $100,000 to $350,000 may merit a $25,000 grant. Revenues between $350,000 and $750,000 may be eligible for a $50,000 grant. Preference will be given to applicants who did not receive substantial COVID-19 relief funding exceeding $10,000 from the State of Minnesota. Additionally, according to the Northland Foundation, nonprofit organizations may apply, provided they derive 30 percent or more of their revenue through non-tax-deductible sales or dues in a fee-for-service model. Grant applications opened on March 26 and will be accepted until May 21. The application form for the Promise Act grant program can be accessed through the provided link. To facilitate the application process and address queries, Campanaro and Theresa Bajda, the executive director of the EDA, announced weekly open office hours at the EDA office in Grand Marais, located at 425 W Hwy 61, Suite B. Bajda mentioned the availability of morning, afternoon, and evening sessions to accommodate diverse schedules. Interested individuals can find the scheduled office hours by contacting 218-387-3112 or reaching out to Campanaro via email at [email protected]. Campanaro emphasized their shared goal of fostering economic opportunity in Cook County and expressed satisfaction in collaborating with Bajda to advance this objective and inform businesses about available services that can positively impact their opportunities for growth. WTIP’s Kalli Hawkins conducted an interview with Pat Campanaro, the Cook County Northland SBDC consultant, and Theresa Bajda, the executive director of the EDA, discussing the Promise Act grant opportunity. The audio recording of the interview is accessible below.

The City of West Hollywood is pleased to offer the Transgender, Gender Diverse, Intersex (TGI+) Arts Grant, a category initiated by the City Council in 2013 intended to support and enhance the presentation of artworks in West Hollywood by artists, artist collectives or groups, and non-profit organizations that have demonstrated a significant commitment to and involvement with the transgender, non-binary, intersex, and gender non-conforming community. Donor Name: City of West Hollywood State: California County: Los Angeles County (CA) City: West Hollywood Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 07/01/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Individual artists, artist collectives or groups, and non-profit organizations with a history of supporting transgender, gender diverse, and/or intersex artists are all welcome to apply. Proposed projects may take place in June but will not be included as part of the WeHo Pride Festival and should be considered as separate from both the WeHo Pride Weekend as well as the WeHo Pride Arts Festival. The City of West Hollywood and Grantees in the Arts Project Grant category can expect to: Engage residents and visitors with the arts; expand arts audiences. Recognize and champion local cultural resources; discover and explore new places for artmaking. Provide a variety of quality arts programming that is financially and geographically accessible for the residents of West Hollywood; increase access to arts experiences. Increase revenues for local businesses; support arts-business partnerships. Encourage transgender artists and organizations to create innovative programming and artwork. Support transgender artists with specific professional and business development activities that will aid in building capacity and maintaining sustainability. Amplify transgender voices, express trans and gender non-conforming experiences, and explore identity and culture through the artistic process. Funding Information $30,000: Total amount of available funding in this category. $6,500: Maximum award per artist/organization. Eligibility Requirements  To be eligible for consideration, organizations must satisfy all the following requirements: Applicants must plan to hold an art exhibit, performance or screening somewhere within the City of West Hollywood or immediately adjacent (within 5 blocks of the border of West Hollywood) within the calendar year 2025 and demonstrate marketing and outreach strategies targeting West Hollywood residents and constituents. The proposed project should be 1 (one) presentation, as opposed to a series of projects over an extended period. Applicants must be able to demonstrate significant commitment to and involvement with the transgender, non-binary, intersex, and gender non-conforming community. Applicants must be based in LA County and must submit an on-line application by the application deadline. Applicants who are organizations must be a registered 501 (c)(3) nonprofit and active nonprofit or provide evidence that they are under a fiscal sponsorship agreement with another nonprofit organization. Applicants may only receive funding from one grant category each calendar year. If the applicant is already receiving funding from another City Division or Department, or is cosponsored by a City Council office, they are not eligible for an Arts Grant for that same project or program. City of West Hollywood elected and appointed officials, its employees and their immediate family members are not eligible to apply. For more information, visit City of West Hollywood.

The City of West Hollywood is pleased to offer the WeHo Community Arts Grant intended to support nonprofit arts organizations, individual artists, or artist collectives, with a history of supporting LGBQ, BIPOC and/or female artists and audiences. Donor Name: City of West Hollywood State: California County: Los Angeles County (CA) City: West Hollywood Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 07/01/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Proposed programs can include art centered presentations or participatory programs (workshops) which enhance the community. The purpose for the grant is to fund art presentations that support community goals through cultural equity. This category supports art centered presentations and/or workshops that provide access and education to specific communities. The City of West Hollywood and Grantees in the Community Arts Grant category can expect to: Engage residents and visitors with the arts; expand arts audiences. Recognize and champion local cultural resources; discover and explore new places for artmaking. Provide a variety of quality arts programming that is financially and geographically accessible for the residents of West Hollywood; increase access to arts experiences. Increase revenues for local businesses, and support arts-business partnerships. Increase access to and/or participation in the arts through education. Amplify, express, explore, address, and celebrate identity, experience, and culture. Funding Information $30,000: Total amount of available funding in this category. $6,000: Maximum award per organization. Eligibility Requirements  To be eligible for consideration, organizations must satisfy the following requirements: Eligible organizations are LA County-based artists, collectives, or non-profit arts organizations with a history of supporting LGBQ, BIPOC and/or female artists and audiences. Applicants must have at least 1 year of art presentation history and be able to provide 2 work samples. Proposed projects must take place in West Hollywood or the immediate West Hollywood immediately adjacent (within 5 blocks of the border of West Hollywood). Applicants must demonstrate a marketing and outreach strategy targeting West Hollywood residents and constituents. Applicants may only receive funding from one grant category each calendar year. If the applicant is already receiving funding from another City Division or Department, or is cosponsored by a City Council office, they are not eligible for an Arts Grant for that same project or program. City of West Hollywood elected and appointed officials, its employees and their immediate family members are not eligible to apply. Proposed projects may not include fundraisers, capital campaigns, murals, or religious-based programs/events. Applicants must submit an application online by the deadline. For more information, visit City of West Hollywood.

The three-phase $2.25 million Silicon Carbide (SiC) Packaging Prize—launched by the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) Office of Electricity—invites competitors to propose, design, build, and test state-of-the-art SiC packaging prototypes that move the industry beyond its current state. Donor Name: U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) State: All States County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 08/31/2024 Size of the Grant: $100,000 to $500,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: This prize establishes a final goal of developing 10-kV, 2,000-A rated SiC power modules that expand the state of the art in semiconductor packaging. Silicon carbide devices have become prime candidates for future high-performance power electronics due to their high breakdown voltage, low switching loss, and high-temperature operation. However, conventional packaging techniques limit the performance of SiC power modules because of parasitic inductance and heat dissipation issues. To enable grid-based applications, SiC power module capabilities need to be expanded to handle higher voltage and higher current than commercially available products. Toward this end, the DOE Office of Electricity established the American-Made SiC Packaging Prize as a three-phase contest to achieve the goals stated above. Program Goal Requirements Only submissions relevant to the goals of this program are eligible to compete. The Prize Administrator must conclude that all the following statements are true when applied to your submission: The proposed solution is related to the SiC Semiconductor packaging industry. The majority of activities that are described in and support the submission package are performed in the United States and have the potential to benefit the U.S. market. The proposed solution represents an innovation that will move the industry beyond its current state. The proposed solution is not dependent on new, pending, or proposed federal, state, or local government legislation, resolutions, appropriations, measures, or policies. The proposed solution does not involve the lobbying of any federal, state, or local government office The proposed solution is based on fundamental technical principles and is consistent with a basic understanding of the U.S. market economy The submission content sufficiently confirms the competitor’s intent to commercialize early-stage technology and establish a viable U.S.-based business in the near future with revenues that do not solely depend on licensing fees of intellectual property Phases and Prizes Phase 1 – Design Study Competitors will describe their team, their plan to make progress toward SiC packaging, showcase their current prototypes, and provide evidence of their current metrics that are in alignment with the goals of the prize. The goal of this phase is to develop a set of design documents for a Phase 2 prototype which adheres to the requirements set. Prizes- Up to 10 winners of $50,000 each Phase 2 – Initial Demonstration In Phase 2, winners from Phase 1 will showcase and demonstrate the advancements made during the prize competition in packaging solutions for SiC modules, meeting, exceeding, or making progress toward the Phase 2 performance metrics as outlined in the rules. This phase is designed to act as a milestone towards achieving the Phase 3 target with the goal of innovating towards an improvement over state-of-the-art packaging and creating transformative solutions. Prizes- Up to 4 winners of $250,000 each Phase 3 – Final Demonstration Competitors will demonstrate an advancement in packaging solutions for SiC modules, meeting or exceeding the Phase 3 performance metrics as outlined in the rules. The goal of the final phase is to achieve the high voltage and high current targets, while continuing to innovate towards an improvement over state-of-the-art packaging and creating transformative solutions. Prizes- Up to 1 winner of $750,000 Eligibility Criteria The competition is open only to private entities (for-profits and nonprofits); nonfederal government entities such as states, counties, tribes, and municipalities; academic institutions; and individuals, subject to the following requirements: Private entities must be incorporated in and maintain a primary place of business in the United States. Academic institutions must be based in the United States. An individual prize competitor or group of competitors who are not competing as part of an incorporated private entity must all be U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents. Individuals competing as part of an incorporated private entity may participate if they are legally allowed to work in the United States. DOE employees, employees of sponsoring organizations, members of their immediate families (e.g., spouses, children, siblings, or parents), and persons living in the same household as such persons, whether or not related, are not eligible to participate in the prize. Individuals who worked at DOE (federal employees or support service contractors) within 6 months prior to the submission deadline of any contest are not eligible to participate in any prize contests in this program. Federal entities and federal employees are not eligible to participate in any portion of the prize. DOE national laboratory employees cannot compete in the prize. Entities and individuals publicly banned from doing business with the U.S. government such as entities and individuals debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participating in federal programs are not eligible to compete. Individuals participating in a foreign government talent recruitment program1 sponsored by a country of risk2 and teams that include such individuals are not eligible to compete. Entities owned by, controlled by, or subject to the jurisdiction or direction of a government of a country of risk are not eligible to compete. Phase 2 Eligibility  Only winners of Phase 1 are eligible to compete in Phase 2. Phase 3 Eligibility  Only winners of Phase 2 are eligible to compete in Phase 3. For more information, visit DOE.

The City of Port St. Lucie, in partnership with the Florida Small Business Development Center at Indian River State College, launched the COVID-19 Small Business Grant Program to support eligible businesses financially affected by the pandemic. Donor Name: City of Port St. Lucie State: County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant | Reimbursement Deadline: All Time Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The Port St. Lucie COVID-19 Small Business Grant Program is designed for low- to moderate-income Census tract areas or individual business owner(s) whose household income qualifies as low or moderate income. Applications from small businesses that have not received prior COVID-19 relief funding will be prioritized.  The City had a total of $390,000 available to expend on grants of up to $10,000 per approved applicant. As of mid-March, 23 applicants had been approved for grants, leaving a total of approximately $165,000 remaining. Eligible small businesses may receive up to $10,000 in the form of a reimbursement grant, which can be used for business-related expenses, including mortgage, rent, utility, insurance premium costs, reopening costs, costs for safety measures and payroll during a business closure. The City received funds for the COVID-19 Small Business Grant Program from FloridaCommerce through its Community Development Block Grant Coronavirus Program. Eligibility Criteria  To apply, applicants must: Have between 0-50 employees. Have been in operation before the COVID-19 pandemic or before March 1, 2020. Be located within a qualified low- to moderate-income Census Tract (QCT) or the owner of the business must qualify as a low- to moderate-income household within the City. Be current on their federal, state, county and city taxes. Have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Be registered with the Florida Division of Corporations. For more information, visit City of Port St. Lucie.

The Neighborhood Stormwater Quality Projects Incentive Grant Program is to assist property owners, businesses, and organizations in the implementation of projects that serve to improve water quality through innovation and education throughout Fayette County. Donor Name: Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government State: Kentucky County: Fayette County (KY) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 05/03/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: The Incentive Grant Program is funded by the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government (LFUCG) Water Quality Management Fee (WQMF) and is administered by the Division of Water Quality (DWQ). The main goal of the Incentive Grant Program is the improvement of surface water quality in Fayette County. To accomplish this goal, the program provides financial assistance for projects that meet the following objectives: Improve water quality in the impaired streams through pollutant reduction or other means; Address stormwater concerns on existing, developing, or redeveloping parcels; Reduce stormwater runoff and flooding; or Provide public or private education related to these items. Funding Information Projects may be funded up to $120,000 with a required 20% cost share of total project cost in cash or in-kind donation. The maximum grant award is $45,000. Grant Period July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025. Eligible Expenses  Eligible expenses must be project-specific invoiced or cash expenditures. Examples include: Materials and Supplies Rental Equipment Consulting Fees Construction Costs Teacher Stipends Permitting Fees. Eligible Projects  Projects must fulfill at least one of the following goals: Install a feature that serves to improve water quality; Involve citizens in activities to improve water quality, reduce water pollution etc.; Educate citizens about water quality and stormwater-related issues; Install a feature that serves to reduce stormwater runoff. Innovative project ideas are encouraged. Potential project ideas include, but are not limited to: Storm drain marking; Stream cleaning; Planting of trees along a stream; Fencing off creeks in agricultural areas; Tree canopy establishment / expansion Installation of rain barrels at neighborhood homes; Installation of a local rain garden; Neighborhood targeted seminar and/or brochures on how to reduce stormwater pollution, such as proper use of lawn chemicals, etc.; Retention pond enhancement for water quality. Who is eligible to apply for funding? All Fayette County neighborhood, community, and homeowner associations that are incorporated with the Commonwealth of Kentucky and have a roster of elected officers are eligible to apply. For more information, visit LFUCG.

The Naturally Lewis Building Business Fund aims to support business growth in Lewis County by providing matching funds for businesses to acquire necessary tools, both literal (equipment/machinery) and figurative (business services/professional services). This initiative is designed to bolster the local economy by facilitating the expansion or diversification of businesses, with an emphasis on projects that demonstrate a clear benefit to the community, including economic development, job creation, introduction of new products or services, and enhancement of cultural or recreational opportunities. Eligible projects may involve equipment, machinery, working capital, training, and workforce development, but cannot include construction or capital improvements. Applications open on July 1, 2024, with a deadline of September 26, 2024. Grant awards range from $10,000 to $50,000.