Grants for Small businesses - Private

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

Main Street Ventures offers Launch Funding to emerging, pre-revenue businesses that have a prototype or product. This grant program aims to support the growth and scaling of businesses within the Greater Cincinnati region, aligning with the foundation's mission to foster economic development and innovation in the area. The funding is specifically designed to cover key direct costs associated with growth projects, rather than general operating expenses, reflecting a strategic priority to provide tangible support for business acceleration. The primary target beneficiaries are business entities (C-Corp, S-Corp, or LLC) with a Federal Tax ID (EIN) located in the Greater Cincinnati region, which includes specific counties in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. Businesses must demonstrate customer demand and strong progression since their founding. The program focuses on specific growth projects that will accelerate business growth, with examples of suitable direct expenses including key equipment, packaging support, and technology product development. This targeted approach ensures that the grant funds directly contribute to measurable business expansion. Special consideration is given to women and minority-owned businesses, as well as businesses that can show matching funds from other sources. This reflects the foundation's strategic priorities to promote inclusivity and leverage additional investment, thereby maximizing the overall impact on the regional economy. The expected outcomes include the scaling of businesses, job creation, and increased economic vitality within the Greater Cincinnati region, with successful applicants demonstrating a clear impact of the grant funds on their business or the region. The Main Street Ventures' theory of change is rooted in providing early-stage, direct financial assistance to promising businesses to help them overcome critical growth hurdles. By focusing on direct costs and specific growth projects, the program aims to create a ripple effect, enabling these businesses to achieve significant milestones that would otherwise be out of reach. The emphasis on local businesses and underrepresented founders further amplifies the foundation's commitment to building a robust and equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Greater Cincinnati area. The grant duration of three years allows for sustained support and monitoring of the businesses' progress.

The Wells Fargo Equitable Access Boost Camp, presented in partnership with Hello Alice and the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN), is a program designed to support the growth of for-profit businesses. While the "foundation mission alignment" and "foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change" are not explicitly detailed as belonging to a specific "foundation" in the provided text, the program itself aligns with a mission of fostering entrepreneurship and providing equitable access to resources for business development. Hello Alice, as a donor and partner, likely brings its own mission of empowering entrepreneurs to the program. The target beneficiaries of this program are entrepreneurs who are leading executives (Founder, President, CEO, CFO, COO, or similar) of for-profit businesses located and registered in the fifty United States, the District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico. Officers must be legal residents and 18 years or older (19 in AL and NE). The businesses must also demonstrate a need for business coaching to support growth, indicating a focus on accelerating established or growing ventures rather than nascent startups. The program's priorities and focuses are centered around providing business coaching through a virtual 12-week Business Accelerator and a 12-week virtual business Boost Camp. The emphasis on a "Boost Camp" suggests a concentrated effort to provide intensive support to accelerate business development. The eligibility criteria, particularly the requirement for a demonstrated need for business coaching, underscore the program's focus on businesses ready to leverage structured guidance for expansion. Expected outcomes and measurable results, while not explicitly quantified in the provided text, can be inferred from the program's structure. The participation in a 12-week Business Accelerator and Boost Camp is expected to lead to business growth, improved strategic planning, and enhanced operational capabilities for the participating businesses. The "Equitable Access" in the program title further suggests an aim to reduce disparities in business success by providing resources to a broad range of eligible entrepreneurs. Ultimately, the program aims to empower businesses to achieve their growth potential through dedicated coaching and support.

Gener8tor is inviting applications for its gBETA Social Impact Accelerator Program, a free, seven-week virtual initiative offering coaching, mentorship, and resources to early-stage companies focused on equity in education or criminal justice reform, with the aim to prepare them for investment accelerators or seed funding rounds.

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

The Douglas Community Fund offers competitive grants specifically aimed at supporting medical and other various needs within Douglas County. With its origins in funding a regional medical facility, the fund places a high priority on the medical needs of the community. Grants range from $2,000 to $10,000, with some reaching $15,000-$20,000. Applicants are notified of their status in late March to early April. This grant program does not support multiyear funding requests. Grant renewed every year. Grant annual opening/ closing deadline: December 1st to January 16th

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations, government entities, and select for-profits for programs addressing substance use disorders in West Virginia, focusing on areas such as foster care, youth prevention, recovery housing, and workforce development.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to underrepresented entrepreneurs in the U.S. who have shown business success, helping them to grow and improve their operations.

This grant provides financial support ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 to small businesses owned by minorities, women, and veterans in Boone, Campbell, and Kenton counties in Northern Kentucky, helping them with various business improvement expenses.

This program provides financial assistance to Maryland farmers and watermen for purchasing and installing cold storage equipment to improve product quality and expand their operations.

This funding opportunity supports various mentoring and intervention programs aimed at reducing violence and fostering positive relationships among youth and families in the community.

LIA Foundation Small Business Support Program The LIA Foundation, in partnership with the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce (LIAACC) and Long Island Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (LIHCC), is continuing to expand the Small Business Support Program by directly funding 25 businesses in Nassau County and 25 businesses in Suffolk County. These grants aim to provide financial resources to support growth, expansion, and contribute to the revitalization of downtown areas. Program Details: Grant Provider: LIA Foundation Funding Source: Generous grant from Optimum Business Grant Amount: $5,000 per selected business Application Deadline: May 1, 2024 Notification: Selected businesses will be notified in the summer of 2024 after review by a Selection Committee. Eligibility: Small businesses in Nassau County and Suffolk County No consideration of membership status with LIA, LIAACC, LIHCC, or Optimum Business in the evaluation process. Additional Information: Non-members of the Long Island Association will receive a six-month complimentary membership upon application submission. Optimum Business provides world-class Internet, phone, TV, security, and managed services with a commitment to small and mid-sized business success. Application Process: Submit applications by May 1, 2024. The Selection Committee will review applications. Successful applicants will receive notification in the summer of 2024. Note: Membership with LIA, LIAACC, LIHCC, or status as an Optimum Business customer will not influence the evaluation of applications.

The Innovate Alabama Supplemental Grant Program is designed to award funds to for-profit, Alabama-based companies that have received Federal Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) or Federal Small Business Technology Transfer Program (STTR) Phase I or Phase II awards. The program's mission aligns with fostering technological innovation, commercialization, and overall economic development within Alabama by supporting small businesses engaged in research and technology development. This initiative aims to bridge critical funding gaps, encourage the growth of high-quality companies, and create high-wage jobs across the state. The target beneficiaries are Alabama-based for-profit companies that have secured federal SBIR/STTR Phase I or Phase II awards. The primary impact goals include increasing the number and types of federal SBIR/STTR applications from Alabama, helping companies bridge the funding gap between Phase I and Phase II payments, and promoting the establishment and growth of businesses committed to Alabama's economic development, entrepreneurship, and innovation. The program prioritizes several key areas. It focuses on increasing commercial success for Alabama SBIR/STTR projects and establishing high-wage jobs in both moderately and highly skilled occupations. Funding is structured with caps: for Phase I awards, Innovate Alabama may grant up to 50% of the federal award or $100,000, whichever is less. For Phase II awards, the supplemental grant can be up to 50% of the federal award or $250,000, whichever is less. Expected outcomes and measurable results include a higher volume of SBIR/STTR applications from Alabama, a stronger pipeline of innovative companies transitioning from Phase I to Phase II, and a measurable increase in commercialized technologies and job creation within the state. The grant funds can be used for highly skilled new hires, business plan development, product testing, market research, intellectual property protection, and technical work, all contributing to the growth and sustainability of these businesses. Eligibility requirements dictate that applicants must meet all federal SBIR/STTR program requirements at the time of application. Additionally, within 12 months of receiving the grant, the applicant must have its primary place of business in Alabama, the majority of its top executives must reside in Alabama, and at least a majority of its employees must live in Alabama. Participation in the E-Verify program is also mandatory. The program is open to applicants whose federal Phase I or Phase II funding was active on or after July 1, 2023. This framework reflects Innovate Alabama's strategic priority of nurturing a robust innovation ecosystem and supporting a theory of change where targeted supplemental funding accelerates the growth and commercialization potential of promising Alabama-based businesses, leading to broader economic benefits.

The District of Columbia Child and Family Services Agency (CFSA) invites applications for funding to support community-based organizations in implementing place-based initiatives. The overarching goal is to improve the well-being and stability of families through community-driven efforts. This aligns with a mission to empower local communities by providing resources and services that directly address their specific needs and strengths, fostering self-sufficiency and improved family outcomes. The grant program aims to establish and support Family Success Centers, which will serve as accessible hubs for neighbors to utilize computers, access various resources and services, and participate in classes and trainings. Each center is designed to be unique, reflecting the specific strengths and goals of its community, ensuring that the support provided is relevant and impactful. This model focuses on localized solutions, recognizing that effective family support is best achieved when tailored to the community it serves. Target beneficiaries for these initiatives are families within the District of Columbia, with a particular focus on those who can benefit from enhanced access to resources and services that improve well-being and stability. The impact goals include fostering stronger, more resilient families and communities by addressing multiple aspects of family life. This approach seeks to create a network of support that is easily accessible and responsive to the evolving needs of residents. The program prioritizes non-profit, community-based organizations that can demonstrate their ability to meet identified needs and commit to implementing program measures over the grant period. Eligible organizations include non-profit, private, public, and faith-based entities. Partnerships between organizations are encouraged to facilitate comprehensive service delivery. Expected outcomes include increased access to vital resources, improved family well-being, enhanced community stability, and the development of sustainable, community-led initiatives. Measurable results will likely include metrics related to service utilization, program participation, and indicators of family and community stability and well-being. Funding information indicates that eligible organizations can receive up to $325,000 in the 12-month base year, with the potential for an additional $325,000 per year for up to four option years, for a maximum grant duration of five years. This sustained funding is intended to support the long-term implementation and impact of these place-based family support initiatives. The strategic priority is to invest in local organizations that are deeply embedded within the communities they serve, thereby leveraging existing community strengths and relationships to achieve lasting positive change.

The PeopleFund's BIPOC Small Business Accelerator is a program designed to empower underserved entrepreneurs in Texas. It provides capital, education, and resources to foster healthy business growth among its participants. PeopleFund's mission is aligned with this program by directly addressing the financial and educational gaps faced by BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) business owners, a critical component of economic equity and community development. The program emphasizes practical support through a structured curriculum and ongoing mentorship. The program targets BIPOC entrepreneurs located in Texas, specifically those who are in low to moderate-income areas, or whose individual address or household income falls within these classifications. It is open to both start-up and existing businesses that demonstrate the ability to support a loan payment through available global cash flow and meet PeopleFund's credit and lending qualifications. This focus ensures that the program reaches individuals and businesses most in need of support to overcome systemic barriers to business success. Key priorities of the accelerator include providing access to business planning software like LivePlan, an online curriculum, and expedited loan packaging and application support. Participants commit to an orientation, virtual training sessions, and assigned "homework," demonstrating a dedication to their business development. The program also prioritizes ongoing after-care through dedicated business coaching and mentorship, recognizing that sustained support is crucial for long-term growth and success. Expected outcomes and measurable results include participants qualifying for a PeopleFund loan product, completion of a business plan, financial statements, and a capital portfolio. They are also expected to gain access to business and professional resources, tools and technology, and networking opportunities within their cohort. The program aims to increase the number of successful BIPOC-owned businesses in Texas, thereby contributing to local economic growth and reducing wealth disparities. The grant amount ranges from $3,000 to a maximum of $5,000. The program's strategic priorities are centered on fostering self-sufficiency and sustainable growth for BIPOC entrepreneurs. PeopleFund's theory of change posits that by providing targeted capital, comprehensive education, and continuous mentorship, they can equip underserved business owners with the essential tools and knowledge to not only start but also significantly scale their businesses. This approach is designed to create a ripple effect, leading to job creation, increased local economic activity, and enhanced community resilience.

This program provides free support and funding for U.S.-based startups in the BlueTech sector focused on developing ocean data technologies that promote ocean health and resilience.

The Regional Development Corporation Tribal Economic Diversity Fund offers grants to businesses owned by federally recognized Indian tribes or their enrolled members. The program aims to provide critical technical services and equipment to these businesses, supporting economic diversification and growth within Northern New Mexico. The fund aligns with the broader mission of sustaining and assisting developing businesses, thereby creating jobs and diversifying the region's economy. The target beneficiaries are business enterprises owned by federally recognized Indian tribes, or at least 51% owned by enrolled members of specific Pueblos (Cochiti, Jemez, Nambe, Ohkay, Picuris, Pojoaque, San Ildefonso, Santa Clara, Taos, or Tesuque). These businesses must be headquartered in Los Alamos, Mora, Rio Arriba, San Miguel, Northern Sandoval, Santa Fe, or Taos County, have a business-only bank account, and have been in operation for at least six months. The impact goals include diversifying revenue, leveraging other investments, creating new jobs, and implementing systems that lead to business growth. The grant prioritizes competitive awards for services that achieve these diversification and growth objectives. Funds can be used for procuring business equipment and tools, advertising and marketing costs, consulting services, and specialized software. Preference is given to first-time applicants and those previously unawarded, indicating a focus on broadening access and supporting new and developing tribal businesses. Expected outcomes include the establishment of new jobs, increased revenue streams for tribal businesses, and the implementation of strategic systems that contribute to long-term economic stability and expansion. Measurable results would likely be tracked through job creation figures, revenue diversification indicators, and the successful acquisition and utilization of funded equipment or services. The program's strategic priority is to strengthen the economic landscape of Northern New Mexico by empowering tribal businesses. The foundation's theory of change posits that by providing targeted financial support for essential services and equipment, tribal businesses will be better equipped to diversify their revenue, expand their operations, and ultimately contribute to job creation and economic resilience in the region. This investment in tribal enterprises is seen as a key driver for sustainable economic development and a more diverse regional economy. The funding ceiling is up to $8,000, with grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000.

UpStart Thrift Store will award competitive grants of up to $5,000 to small business owners in Washington County. The UpStart Thrift Store team will work with the Startup Junkie Foundation leadership to select the awardees based on the merits of their application. If your startup or small business could benefit from such a grant, fill out the application at the link below. Please don't apply unless your business is physically located in Washington County, Arkansas. The grant awards starting at $500 are provided by the sales proceeds derived from efforts of an all volunteer non-profit thrift store called Upstart Thrift that is a program of the 501c3, Startup Junkie Foundation. The intent is to provide a hand up to deserving small businesses in Washington County, Arkansas. Applicants will only be eligible for one award per calendar year. Applications will be reviewed quarterly. The top three candidates will be contacted to conduct a brief interview. Candidates who do not receive a grant are still eligible for funds via Kiva NWA and free consulting from Startup Junkie.

The Mini-Grants for Community Impact, offered by the United Way of the Golden Triangle Region, aim to strengthen local initiatives within Choctaw, Lowndes, Noxubee, Oktibbeha, Webster, and Winston Counties in Mississippi. This grant program aligns with the United Way's mission to address human needs through united community efforts, including human services planning, community-wide fundraising, and citizen-reviewed fund allocation. The grants are designed to foster a clear understanding and mutual acceptance of roles between the United Way and participating organizations, ensuring a collaborative approach to meeting the human needs of the specified counties. The target beneficiaries for these grants are registered 501(c)3 non-profits, organizations, businesses, programs, or community groups actively working in the designated regions. The overarching impact goal is to advance key areas such as Education, Health, Financial Stability, Children/Family well-being, and Disaster relief. By supporting these entities, the program seeks to improve the quality of life for residents across these six Mississippi counties. The program prioritizes initiatives that directly fulfill a specific community need within the identified impact areas. While the grant size is stated as $1,000 to $10,000 in one section, the funding information later specifies an awarded amount ranging from $500 to $1,500, with a maximum of $1,500 per entity. This suggests a focus on smaller, targeted interventions. Crucially, funds cannot be allocated towards salaries, reimbursements, matching funds, capital campaigns, operational expenses, consulting fees, or lobbying, ensuring that resources are directed exclusively to direct program implementation and community benefit. Expected outcomes include tangible improvements in education, health, financial stability, family support, and disaster preparedness or recovery within the target counties. While specific measurable results are not detailed, the emphasis on fulfilling "a specific community need" implies that successful applicants will demonstrate how their projects contribute to these broader goals. The United Way of the Golden Triangle Region's strategic priority is to address human needs effectively and efficiently, and their theory of change relies on the collective efforts of various community segments to achieve lasting positive change.

In Tier 3, CHEJ's Small Grants Program targets large grassroots organizations with budgets between $250,000 and $1,000,000. Offering grants between $10,000 and $20,000, this tier supports substantial projects that tackle environmental health issues through strategic, impactful actions. Eligible projects are those that enable significant local, state, or regional impact, focusing on building capacity, leadership, and educational outreach within communities affected by environmental toxins. This funding tier is suited for larger organizations that play a pivotal role in their communities and are looking to expand or enhance their ongoing efforts.