Local Workforce Development Grants

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is offering a Business Resiliency program, funded by federal Community Development Block Grant-Coronavirus (CDBG-CV) Funds. This grant aims to support the construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation, or acquisition of property for homeless shelters, with the goal of increasing their capacity to pre-COVID levels. The program is federally funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and requires all awarded projects to demonstrate a connection to the prevention, preparation, and response to the coronavirus. The primary objective is to provide stable, safe, and adequate housing for individuals experiencing homelessness, aligning with the broader mission of community development and support for vulnerable populations. The target beneficiaries are homeless individuals, with the impact goal of increasing the capacity of shelters to serve more people and improve living conditions. This program directly addresses the critical need for enhanced housing infrastructure in the wake of the pandemic, ensuring that communities are better equipped to handle homelessness. A key priority of this grant is to fund projects that meet the National Objective of Low to Moderate Income for the benefiting businesses, ensuring that the assistance reaches those most in need. The program also emphasizes robust collaboration among local entities, requiring letters of support from a minimum of five community homelessness support services. This fosters a coordinated approach to addressing homelessness and ensures comprehensive service delivery. Expected outcomes include an increase in the number of available shelter beds and improved facilities for homeless individuals. While the total funding amount is yet to be precisely determined, it will be at least $15 million, with individual awards ranging from $500,000 to $2 million. The number of grants will be based on the amounts requested. The project period is anticipated to run from January 1, 2025, through December 31, 2026, allowing for a substantial duration to achieve the program's objectives. Measurable results will be tied to the increased capacity of shelters and their ability to provide stable and safe housing. Eligibility criteria require entities to be registered in the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) Grantee Portal, possess valid FEIN and UEI numbers, have current and public SAM.gov registrations, and be in good standing with state and federal lists. Eligible applicants must also be units of local government receiving "Entitlement" CDBG funding, have a current Shelter Funding Strategy, and remain compliant with all applicable nondiscrimination laws.

This program provides funding to small businesses and commercial property owners in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, for improving their storefronts and interiors to boost economic growth and community revitalization.

Grant Opportunity: City of Long Beach Neighborhood Micro Grant Program Donor: City of Long Beach, California Type: Grant Deadline: Ongoing Grant Size: Up to $1,500 Duration: 12 months The Development Services Department Housing and Neighborhood Services Bureau is seeking proposals from established Long Beach neighborhood associations to host neighborhood events and improvement projects. The Neighborhood Micro Grant Program (NMGP) aims to support events and projects that enhance neighborhood spirit, collaboration, and revitalization efforts. NMGP will provide up to $1,500 for goods and services to support approved events and projects focused on blight reduction, financial or employment training, crime awareness, fair housing, health services, and mental health services citywide. Eligible public service events/projects must have the support of the neighborhood organization’s governing body and the affected neighborhood. The grants will be disbursed directly to neighborhood associations with a tax ID number or fiscal agent. All events/projects must be completed within twelve months of the Notice of Funding Availability. For more information, visit City of Long Beach website.

The FY24 Arizona Automobile Theft Authority (AATA) Grant programs offer funding for Law Enforcement, Training, and Theft Prevention projects. These programs are available to Arizona Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice agencies, aligning with the AATA's mission to reduce automobile theft through these key areas. The funding aims to support initiatives that enhance the capabilities of agencies in combating vehicle theft and educating the public on prevention. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are Arizona Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice agencies, which in turn benefit the broader Arizona community by reducing auto theft. The impact goals include a decrease in the incidence of vehicle theft, improved training for law enforcement personnel, and increased public awareness regarding theft prevention strategies. These goals contribute directly to public safety and economic well-being within the state. The AATA Grant program prioritizes projects focused on Law Enforcement, Training, and Theft Prevention. This includes supporting direct enforcement efforts, professional development for officers, and community outreach programs designed to deter theft. Grant applications require approval from the AATA Board of Directors, ensuring that funded projects align with the authority's strategic priorities and theory of change, which is to foster a safer environment by proactively addressing vehicle crime. Expected outcomes include a measurable reduction in auto theft rates across Arizona, an increase in successful theft investigations and prosecutions, and a more informed public equipped with prevention knowledge. Grantees are required to submit monthly or quarterly financial and performance reports within the Ecivis Grant Management System, allowing for the tracking and measurement of these results against the program's objectives. Funding for FY24 is available prior to June 30, 2024, with extensions possible for procurement and program implementation, emphasizing timely and effective utilization of resources.

The Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln offers Junior League of Springfield Capacity Building Grants to support nonprofit staff and board attendance at trainings and professional development programs. The grants are strategic investments that strengthen management, governance, and leadership in eligible organizations across the region. Funds may be used for workshop or conference registration, consultant fees for customized training, and associated travel, meals, lodging, and related costs. Eligible applicants include registered 501(c)(3) organizations, faith based organizations offering non religious community services, public or private schools for projects beyond regular budgets, and units of government or municipalities. The program serves organizations in Cass, Christian, Logan, Macoupin, Menard, Montgomery, Morgan, and Sangamon counties. Grants are generally up to 1,500 dollars and may support participation by staff or board members in targeted professional development opportunities. Projects should clearly describe expected outcomes and how the training will strengthen organizational effectiveness. Applications are due May 3, 2024. Additional information is available from the Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln.

This program provides financial support to projects that enhance economic resilience, diversity, and sustainability in the Cape Cod region, targeting local organizations and initiatives focused on housing, entrepreneurship, workforce education, infrastructure, and climate resilience.

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.

This grant provides funding to support a collaborative workforce development program aimed at equipping middle and high school students, particularly young men of color in Fayette County, Kentucky, with essential skills and experiences for high-wage career opportunities.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations in Mecklenburg County that provide essential services to residents, focusing on community connectivity, economic opportunities, health, and safety.

The City of South Lake Tahoe's Cannabis Revenues Grant Program aims to provide funding opportunities to local public agencies and nonprofit organizations. This program is designed to mitigate potential negative impacts of the cannabis industry within South Lake Tahoe, while also promoting the strategic priorities outlined in the City's 2023-2028 Strategic Plan. The initiative aligns directly with the City's broader mission to foster community well-being and responsible economic development, utilizing cannabis tax revenues for the benefit of its residents and environment. The target beneficiaries for this grant program are local public agencies and nonprofit organizations operating within or serving the South Lake Tahoe community. The overarching impact goal is to address and reduce any adverse effects associated with the cannabis industry. Simultaneously, the program seeks to advance the City’s Strategic Priorities, which include Built Environment, Recreation and Equitable Access, Community for All, Economic Development, and Core Services & High Performing Government. The program's priorities and focuses are clearly defined: proposals must be centered on efforts to mitigate potential impacts of the cannabis industry in South Lake Tahoe and actively promote the aforementioned strategic priorities. This ensures that funded projects are directly relevant to the City's objectives and contribute to a healthier, more equitable, and economically vibrant community. Expected outcomes include a measurable reduction in cannabis industry-related impacts and tangible progress towards the City's strategic goals. While specific measurable results are not detailed in the provided text, the requirement for past-year recipients to submit a detailed report on how previous awards were expensed suggests an emphasis on accountability and tracking of funds. The grant duration of one year also implies a focus on projects with clear, achievable objectives within that timeframe. The City of South Lake Tahoe's strategic priorities, which serve as the foundation's "theory of change," are multifaceted. By investing in areas like the Built Environment, Recreation and Equitable Access, Community for All, Economic Development, and Core Services & High Performing Government, the City believes it can create a more resilient and thriving community. This grant program specifically channels cannabis revenues to support this holistic approach, demonstrating a commitment to responsible governance and community development. Grant amounts range from $1,000 to $50,000, with funds required to be expended within one year. Eligibility criteria include having a current City of South Lake Tahoe Business License and meeting all requirements outlined in the City’s Financial Policies Granting Funds for Community Benefit and Enhancement.

The Monroe County Community Foundation, in partnership with the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio, is seeking grant applications to benefit Monroe County residents and communities. This program aligns with the foundations' missions to foster community well-being and development by providing financial support to local initiatives. The grants are designed to advance opportunities across five key areas, known as the Pillars of Prosperity: arts and culture, community and economic development, education, environmental stewardship, and health and human services. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are individuals of all ages within Monroe County, as well as nonprofit organizations, schools, and public organizations that serve them. The primary impact goal is to support projects that create opportunities, meet pressing needs, and unleash the potential within the county. This focus ensures that funding addresses critical local challenges and promotes a brighter future for residents. The program prioritizes initiatives that fall under the five Pillars of Prosperity, with an emphasis on projects led by individuals who are actively working to improve their communities. While funding requests generally range from $500 to $2,500, larger requests will be considered based on their potential for significant impact. This flexibility allows for support of both smaller, grassroots efforts and more ambitious projects that promise substantial benefits. Expected outcomes include tangible improvements in the quality of life for Monroe County residents across the various pillars. Measurable results could involve increased participation in arts and cultural events, new local businesses or job creation, enhanced educational programs, improved environmental conditions, and better access to health and human services. The foundations' strategic priorities are clearly rooted in a theory of change that posits by investing in these key areas, they can empower local leaders and organizations to drive positive, sustainable change within the community.

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.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and government agencies in Hawaiʻi to develop projects that boost the local film and creative industries, fostering economic growth and community benefits.

This funding opportunity, the FY25 Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force Annual Grant, is offered by the Arizona Automobile Theft Authority (AATA). Its primary mission is to provide funding to the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZ DPS) to administer the statewide Vehicle Theft Task Force. This directly aligns with the AATA's foundational mission of combating automobile theft within Arizona, by empowering a key state agency to lead enforcement and prevention efforts. The target beneficiaries of this grant are the residents of Arizona, who will benefit from reduced vehicle theft rates and enhanced public safety. The impact goal is to significantly deter and reduce vehicle theft across the state, thereby protecting property and reducing the associated financial and social costs. This is achieved through the operationalization of a dedicated task force focused on vehicle theft. The grant prioritizes the ongoing operation and administration of the statewide Vehicle Theft Task Force by the AZ DPS. This focus includes the resources necessary for the task force to conduct investigations, apprehend offenders, and implement prevention strategies. The AATA's strategic priority is to ensure a robust and effective response to vehicle theft, and this grant is a direct mechanism for achieving that. Expected outcomes include a more efficient and effective statewide response to vehicle theft, leading to a measurable decrease in theft incidents. Grantees are required to submit monthly or quarterly financial and performance reports within the Ecivis Grant Management System. These reports serve as the primary measurable results, allowing the AATA to track the task force's activities, expenditures, and impact on vehicle theft statistics, thereby demonstrating the success and accountability of the program. The theory of change is that by consistently funding and monitoring a dedicated Vehicle Theft Task Force, the state will see a direct and positive correlation in the reduction of vehicle theft and an increase in related enforcement actions.

The City of Rockford’s Business Growth Program offers forgivable loans to for-profit businesses to advance business operations. The program's core mission aligns with fostering business development and growth, specifically targeting job creation for low-to-moderate income individuals. While not explicitly a "foundation," the city acts as the funding entity with a clear strategic priority: local economic development through business support and employment opportunities for specific demographics. The program serves as a tangible mechanism to implement this theory of change by providing financial incentives for growth that directly contribute to job creation. The primary target beneficiaries are for-profit businesses legally established and operating within the City of Rockford’s municipal boundaries, specifically those in commercially or industrially zoned properties, and established by May 1, 2024. A key focus is on businesses located in eligible census tracts, ensuring that the benefits of the program are directed towards areas identified as needing economic upliftment. The impact goal is to stimulate business expansion, leading to increased employment opportunities for low-to-moderate income individuals within the city. The program prioritizes projects that involve the purchase of equipment and operating expenses associated with business expansion. This includes inventory, employee salaries, rent, and advertising/marketing expenses. These priorities directly support businesses in their growth phases, addressing common financial hurdles they may face when expanding operations. By focusing on these areas, the program aims to maximize the potential for businesses to scale up and, consequently, create more jobs. Expected outcomes include a tangible increase in business development and job creation for low-to-moderate income individuals. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond "up to $25,000 in gap funding" and "job creation," the implied metrics would be the number of businesses supported, the total value of loans disbursed, and the number of new jobs created for the target demographic. The city's strategic priority is to strengthen its local economy and reduce unemployment among its low-to-moderate income residents, with this program acting as a direct tool to achieve those measurable results.

The City of Mukilteo’s Co-Sponsorship Grant process is designed to promote, support, and expand existing and new special events, activities, and programs within the city, as well as to publicize and support economic development initiatives. A key alignment with the city's mission is the support of activities that foster the general health and well-being of the community. This grant primarily functions by waiving facility rental fees for the use of City Facilities, thereby reducing a significant barrier for organizations looking to host beneficial events and programs. The target beneficiaries of this grant program include a broad range of public and private organizations. Specifically, qualifying organizations encompass non-profit volunteer groups, neighborhood groups, educational organizations, public agencies, and chambers of commerce. The ultimate impact goal is to enhance the quality of life for Mukilteo residents through increased access to cultural arts, recreation, youth and adult activities, and improved community safety. Furthermore, the program aims to stimulate economic growth through events and activities that promote job creation and business attraction and retention. The grant program prioritizes projects that are open to the public and offer enhanced opportunities in areas such as culture and arts, recreation, youth or adult activities, and community safety. Another key focus is on projects that promote job growth or promote business attraction and retention within Mukilteo. While the grant is generally open to Mukilteo-based organizations, there are limited exceptions for organizations outside the city that can clearly demonstrate the necessity and direct public benefit of their service to the Mukilteo community. The expected outcomes from this program are multifaceted. By waiving facility rental fees, the City of Mukilteo anticipates an increase in the number and diversity of special events, programs, and activities offered to its residents. Measurable results could include the number of events supported, the estimated attendance at these events, and the reported community engagement. From an economic development perspective, success could be measured by the number of jobs created or retained, and the growth of businesses attributed to grant-supported initiatives. The grant's duration is not specified, but projects must be accomplished by December 31st, 2025, suggesting a focus on near-term impact.

The Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority’s Tourism Product Development Fund (TPDF) aims to provide financial assistance for major tourism capital projects. Its core mission is to increase patronage of lodging properties and further economic development within Buncombe County. The fund aligns with the broader goal of fostering sustainable growth and enhancing the region as a desirable destination. The target beneficiaries of the TPDF are non-profit organizations and government entities that develop major tourism capital projects. The impact goals are to create jobs, foster entrepreneurial opportunities, provide amenities for both residents and visitors, and ultimately increase overnight lodging stays in Buncombe County. Projects that directly increase lodging stays or support larger initiatives to do so are evaluated equally. The TPDF prioritizes capital investments, focusing on "brick and mortar" projects. Operational expenses are not considered for funding, though design fees already expended can count towards the required 1-to-1 funding match. Projects must be principally located in Buncombe County, demonstrate the ability to increase lodging patronage, and not solely benefit a single lodging owner or property. Applicants must also have legal control of the property and show how they will achieve a minimum 1-to-1 funding match. Expected outcomes include enhanced financial stability for requesting organizations, successful and sustainable project operations, and effective sales and marketing plans that draw visitation. The TPDF also seeks projects that differentiate the destination through brand alignment, uniqueness, and innovation, and those that promote the local creative sector. Measurable results are assessed by the ratio of overnight lodging generated to funding requested, and the project's ability to create new and incremental room nights, not just pull from existing visitors. Furthermore, the TPDF aligns with BCTDA’s strategic imperatives to deliver balanced recovery and sustainable growth by distributing visitors geographically and seasonally. Projects that encourage safe and responsible travel, and those that support engagement with and appeal to more diverse audiences, receive greater consideration. The overarching theory of change is that strategic capital investments in tourism infrastructure will lead to increased visitor numbers, economic benefits, and a more vibrant community, all while ensuring sustainable and equitable development.

The goal of the Façade Improvement Grant Program (FIGP) is to be a catalyst for improving the exterior of business-use properties that result in quality improvements and enhancements that benefit the business and the City. The improvements must enhance the appearance of the property and the environment in which the property is located. The FIGP has been established as a one-time program to provide grant funding for business owners and/or property owners of retail, commercial, industrial and office properties in the focus area to complete exterior improvements to business-use properties. The grant is not intended for new “ground up construction” but for improvement of existing large scale commercial buildings and the property around them. Funding Information The City anticipates awarding funds to 4-6 projects. Any awarded funding $100,000 and over will require a 10% match in private investment and a public hearing before the City Council. For example, if an applicant is awarded a grant for $150,000 in eligible improvements, the applicant is required to match $15,000 (10% of $150,000). In this example, a business or property owner can realize a total of $165,000 in improvements with a $15,000 investment. Private investment may exceed the matching grant portion of the project if, for example, interior improvements are included in the scope of work even though they are not eligible for the grant.  Purchase of the materials and services shall be funded in whole or in part by a grant from the U.S. Treasury and as such the recipient shall be required to abide by certain Federal provisions and requirements. The procurement regulations and guidelines require that all agreements with sub-recipients for projects using these funds adhere to all applicable requirements relating but not limited to non-discrimination, equal employment opportunity, training and business opportunity, and non-segregated facilities. Eligible Activities  The purpose of the FIGP is for significant and impactful façade improvements and renovations that includes improvements or renovations of existing buildings. For example, a cumulative number of eligible activities that may include a combination of several of the following: structural façade improvements, paint, awnings, signs, addition of architectural detail to façade, façade tile or stone accents, decorative entry walkway area, outside dining with decorative features, irrigated landscape/flower planters or pots, outside decorative lighting, and/or new windows. Eligible Applicants  Small Business – has no more than 500 employees or, if applicable, the size standard in number of employees established by the Administrator of the Small Business Administration for the industry in which the business concern or organization operates; and (2) Is a small business concern as defined in section 3 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632). Non-profit – a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code.  Impacted Industry – an industry or businesses within an “impacted” industry that experienced a negative economic impact during the pandemic including tourism, travel, and hospitality. If the industry is outside of travel, tourism or hospitality sectors, the industry is impacted if: 1) The industry experienced at least 8 percent employment loss from pre-pandemic levels, or 2) The industry is experiencing comparable or worse economic impacts as the tourism, travel and hospitality industries as of the date the ARPA Final Rule (published 12/6/2022).

The Business Development Grant Program, offered by the Town of Perryville, Maryland, is designed to stimulate economic development within the town's corporate limits. Its primary objectives are to foster new job opportunities, reduce the number of vacant storefronts, encourage business diversification, attract additional private sector investment, and promote in-fill business development. This program aligns with a strategic goal of local government to create a vibrant and sustainable economic environment, though specific "foundation mission alignment" beyond this general goal is not explicitly stated as this is a municipal program rather than a private foundation. The target beneficiaries of this program are new and existing small businesses located within the Town of Perryville. The program aims to support these businesses by providing funds necessary for operational needs, thereby ensuring their financial viability and encouraging growth. The ultimate impact goals include strengthening the local economy, increasing employment, and enhancing the overall business landscape of Perryville. The emphasis on filling vacant storefronts and encouraging diversification suggests a focus on revitalizing commercial areas and expanding the range of goods and services available to residents and visitors. The program prioritizes a broad range of eligible uses for funds, including building improvements, the purchase of machinery, equipment, furniture, fixtures, inventory, property acquisition or leasing, and advertising campaigns. This comprehensive approach reflects a strategic priority to support various aspects of business development and expansion. The eligibility criteria further refine the program's focus, requiring applicants to be in good standing with the Town, Cecil County, and the State of Maryland, and to operate within specific zoning districts (Neighborhood Business, Town Center, Highway Commercial, Residential Marine, Commercial Maritime, and for existing businesses, Residential districts). This indicates a deliberate strategy to concentrate development in designated commercial and mixed-use areas. Expected outcomes and measurable results include an increase in new job creation, a reduction in the number of unoccupied commercial properties, a more diverse local business sector, and a rise in private sector investment. While specific metrics are not detailed in the provided information, the program's objectives inherently suggest these as key performance indicators. The "theory of change" underpinning this grant is that by providing financial assistance for operational needs and growth initiatives, the Town of Perryville can directly stimulate business activity, which in turn will lead to economic growth and community benefits. This proactive approach by the municipality serves as its strategic priority for economic development.

The City of Naperville in Illinois is offering a Social Service Grant ranging from $500,000 to $1 million for a duration of one year, aimed at financially assisting non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations that provide services such as emergency assistance, senior care, self-sufficiency programs, support for special populations, and youth programs to benefit the Naperville community.