State Business and Commerce Grants

TWC is committed to improving access to quality child care across the state of Texas. This RFA seeks Applicants to foster sustainable career pathways that increase the availability of qualified Early Childhood Educators through the development of RAPs, which combines OJL with related classroom instruction. RAPs have been expanding into more nontraditional occupations, including early childhood education in the form of child care RAPs. Child care RAPs will assist in improving the education and training that Early Childhood Educators receive, thus allowing them to improve their understanding of child development and improve the quality of child care. High quality training and supports for Early Childhood Educators are important to the child care field.

The MTMPP Special Event Marketing Grant is intended to support the marketing of well-established events in Maine that have the potential to attract new audiences, increase overnight visitation, and extend visitors' length of stay, particularly during the state's shoulder season. This grant aims to enhance Maine’s brand nationally and internationally, contributing significantly to the state's economy. Qualifying applicants include Maine non-profits, municipalities, and tribal governments. Two grants are available each fiscal year, with each cycle offering one grant ranging from $30,000 to $60,000. Projects must align with the Office of Tourism Destination Management Plan and Stewardship Principles, focusing on inclusive and accessible tourism promotion. Eligible expenses can include paid advertising, public and media relations, website upgrades, asset development, and fulfillment materials, with a clear emphasis on expanding marketing strategies to draw in new visitors. A 25% cash match is required for the grant, which aims to support sustainable growth within Maine’s tourism economy.

The MTMPP Enterprise Marketing Grant is designed to stimulate Maine's travel and tourism economy by supporting comprehensive marketing initiatives that promise to increase visitation. This grant aligns private sector promotional efforts with those of the Maine Office of Tourism (MOT) and Regional Destination Marketing Organizations (RDMOs), aiming for sustainable growth and advancement of Maine's tourism sector. Eligible entities include Maine non-profits, municipalities, and tribal governments, with grant amounts ranging from $5,000 to $30,000. Projects should align with the MOT Destination Management Plan and Stewardship Principles, focusing on tourism development by attracting visitors from at least fifty miles away. Eligible projects can include paid advertising, public and media relations, website upgrades, asset development, and participation in travel and trade shows. A 50% cash match is required, with detailed documentation of matching funds in the project budget. The application process includes providing a comprehensive marketing plan, budget, timeline, and support letters. Creative and media requirements ensure alignment with MOT branding and promotional strategies. Applications are evaluated based on design, implementation, economic impact, collaboration, and alignment with state marketing efforts.

The Maine Communities Grant Program aims to bolster tourism-oriented community marketing projects and events across the state. For FY 2025 Cycle 1, up to four grants, ranging from $2,500 to $5,000, will be awarded in each of the 8 designated Maine Tourism Regions. Eligible applicants include Maine municipalities, tribal governments, and Maine-based nonprofits. Projects should demonstrate a clear alignment with tourism that is inclusive and accessible. Eligible initiatives may involve paid advertising, public and media relations, website upgrades, asset development such as photography or video, and fulfillment of tourism materials. Ineligible projects include new website hosting, fundraising events, professional development, capital equipment, and promotional products. The program encourages a mix of cash and in-kind contributions for matching funds, with clear documentation required in the application. Creative requirements mandate the prominent use of the word "Maine" and the MOT logo in all grant-funded media, adhering to MOT design guidelines. Additionally, a link to the state’s tourism website should be displayed when appropriate, and events must be posted on visitmaine.com. Grant renewed every year.

The MassDEP Reduce, Reuse, Repair Micro-Grant program provides grants of up to $10,000 to for-profit and non-profit organizations, regional authorities, eligible municipalities, and schools/colleges, for short-term waste reduction projects. Donor Name: Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) State: Massachusetts County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 05/15/2024 Size of the Grant: $100,000 to $500,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Projects must focus on reducing waste generation and prolonging the lifespan of products via donation, rescue, reuse and/or repair in Massachusetts. Funding Information Individual Micro-Grants have a maximum award of $10,000, with a total available budget up to $125,000. MassDEP reserves the right to award more or less than the full budget available for this program. Eligible Expenses Grant funds may be used for costs associated with developing and implementing the proposed project such as, equipment, signage, outreach/education, event space rental fees, event marketing/promotion, professional services (e.g., legal, engineering, design) and new personnel (consultants, contractors, or staff that will dedicate additional hours to the proposed project for a specified and finite period of time). Eligible Projects  Eligible projects include but are not limited to: Purchase inventory technology or other software to increase operational efficiencies. Examples include inventory management systems, online market-place platform development, environmental benefits calculators, and reporting systems. Develop or expand programs to collect and redistribute reusable clothing, footwear, bedding, electronics, home goods, and other items via social service agency networks, furniture banks, schools, and institutions. Develop reusable transport packaging systems that replace limited-life packaging used in manufacturing, transportation and/or distribution with durable alternatives designed for many years of use. Examples include the replacement of cardboard boxes with reusable hand-held plastic totes or crates and switching to reusable pallet wraps instead of using disposable plastic film used to secure loads onto pallets. Convert from single-use to reusable food service ware at schools, food service businesses, or institutional cafeterias (e.g., dishwashers, electrical, plumbing, minor kitchen modifications and/or reusable dishware). Note: Purchase of food service ware for establishing a new program/new construction is excluded. Install bulk dispensing systems in commercial, retail and/or hospitality settings for food, beverages, personal care products (soap, shampoo, lotion), or cleaning products. Projects must replace single-use packaging. Develop or expand programs to repair used furniture, appliances, electronics, bicycles, or durable household goods for resale or distribution. May include purchase of tools and supplies and/or set-up of training program. Develop textile/clothing/footwear repair programs, at or in conjunction with a second-hand goods retailer or distributor. Creation or expansion of food donation collection, storage, and distribution programs (e.g., purchase of community fridge or pantry at a community center for food rescue distribution). Develop community repair training or apprenticeship program for home goods, textiles, clothing, footwear, electronics, bicycles, etc. Develop and host trainings on deconstruction techniques targeting the construction industry, tech/carpentry schools, or individuals engaged in building and renovation work. Conduct a deconstruction pilot program involving one or more buildings (municipal or private). Promote recovery and resale of used building materials in remodel, renovation, and new construction projects to close the loop and reduce waste. Develop/expand and promote community tool-lending libraries or Library of Things. Develop and/or promote statewide community repair or fix-it events for the general public; set up a community repair space. Eligible Applicants An organization or business (for-profit or non-profit) properly licensed to do business in Massachusetts. A regional entity, such as a solid waste management district, solid waste/recycling cooperative or regional planning authority, as long as the entity is recognized as a governmental body under Mass General Laws. An individual Massachusetts city or town, or a MA municipality acting as a lead for a multi-town regional initiative. Pre-K-12 schools, as well as colleges and universities, both public and private. For more information, visit MassDEP.

This program provides funding to expand high-speed internet access in underserved areas of Pennsylvania, targeting households and businesses lacking adequate broadband service.

This funding opportunity assists communities in developing a portfolio of ready sites to attract and support growing businesses, with loans available specifically for private developers.

This grant program, overseen by the North Dakota Department of Agriculture in consultation with the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT), is dedicated to supporting infrastructure improvements for roadways and bridges. It aims to facilitate the development or expansion of new or existing value-added agriculture businesses by enhancing access and transportation infrastructure. Political subdivisions are invited to apply for funding to undertake corridor improvements on county and township roadways and improvements to bridges that provide access to value-added agriculture businesses. The program commits to awarding grants up to $1,250,000 or 80% of the project cost, prioritizing projects that demonstrate significant potential for economic impact on the agriculture sector. Rolling application. Deadline is 04/01/2025 unless funds are depleted earlier

Administered by the North Dakota Department of Agriculture, this grant focuses on utility improvements necessary for the support of value-added agriculture businesses. It offers financial assistance for water and wastewater line improvements, as well as electrical and gas supply enhancements to accommodate the unique needs of agriculture businesses aiming for development or expansion. Grants are available up to $350,000 or 80% of the utility project cost, with a commitment to supporting projects that bolster the infrastructure required for sustainable agriculture growth and efficiency. Rolling application. Deadline is 04/01/2025 unless funds are depleted earlier

The Arts & Cultural Organizations General Operating Support grant program provides direct funding to arts and cultural organizations in support of ongoing operations. Donor Name: California Arts Council State: California County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline:  06/06/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: This grant supports the well-being of California’s cultural vitality by helping sustain a robust and diverse arts workforce and infrastructure. Funds may be used to support any eligible expenses associated with the general operations of an arts or cultural organization, including but not limited to rent, utilities, and staff salaries. Applying for this grant does not restrict an organization from applying for other CAC project-based grants. General Operating grants are intended to support the applicant organization in carrying out its mission. Funding is not intended to support a specific project. Funding Information Organizations with total revenue below $250,000 or over $1.5 million are not eligible for this funding cycle. Applicant organizations can request up to $30,000 for this one-year funding cycle. Grant Activity Period: October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025. Eligibility Criteria  501(c)(3) organization- Organizations must demonstrate proof of nonprofit status under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code or section 23701d of the California Revenue and Taxation Code. Applying with a 501(c)(3) Fiscal sponsor- An applicant organization without nonprofit status must use a California-based fiscal sponsor with a federal 501(c)(3) designation to apply for funding. OR Municipal, County or Tribal Governmental Entity- Units of municipal, county, or tribal governments are eligible to apply. Certificate of good standing – Nonprofit organizations and fiscal sponsors (if applicable) must have “active status” with the California Secretary of State (SOS) showing evidence of “good standing” at the time of application. You can verify your organization’s status by conducting a search using the SOS online Business Search tool. An indication of “active” (versus “suspended,” “dissolved,” “cancelled,” etc.) confirms that your nonprofit corporation exists, is authorized to conduct business in the State of California, has met all licensing and corporation requirements, and has not received a suspension from the Franchise Tax Board. For more information, visit California Arts Council.

This funding provides financial support to Pennsylvania counties, cities, and local governments to aid in COVID-19 response, economic recovery, and public health improvements.

This program provides financial assistance to Michigan's food and agriculture businesses to help them meet wastewater regulations and improve their infrastructure.

This program provides funding to support proactive engagement with local businesses in Pennsylvania, helping them to retain and expand by fostering strong relationships with economic and workforce development partners.

This funding supports projects in the Appalachian Region that create jobs, improve infrastructure, enhance education and health, and strengthen community development.

The General Appropriation Act of 2020 (1A of 2020) and the Supplement to the General Appropriation Act of 2020 (Act 17A of 2020) together appropriated a combined total of $5,000,000 to establish the State Facility Closure Transition Program (SFCTP). The SFCTP is intended to ensure adequate community support following the closure of commonwealth facilities in directly impacted and contiguous counties. Financial Info: The General Appropriation Act of 2020 (1A of 2020) and the Supplement to the General Appropriation Act of 2020 (Act 17A of 2020) together appropriated a combined total of $5,000,000 to establish the State Facility Closure Transition Program (SFCTP). The SFCTP is intended to ensure adequate community support following the closure of commonwealth facilities in directly impacted and contiguous counties.

The Executive Office of Economic Development (EOED) is pleased to announce the availability of funding from the Rural Development Fund (RDF), through the 2025 Community One Stop for Growth. Donor Name: Executive Office of Economic Development (EOED) State: Massachusetts County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 06/05/2024 Size of the Grant: $100,000 to $500,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The RDF is a competitive grant program created to provide financial support for a variety of activities related to economic and community development in rural communities and small towns throughout the Commonwealth. Eligible municipalities and other public entities are invited to submit project proposals to be considered for funding. The program is designed to support projects that address the unique economic needs and challenges faced by smaller communities, which sometimes includes difficulty competing against larger cities/towns for grant resources. RDF offers grants for a variety of project types, including community planning efforts, predevelopment activities, and/or construction. Funding Information Grants in this category will likely be in the $50,000-$500,000 range. Projects that apply under the “Planning and Zoning” category will be limited to no more than $100,000 per application. Grants in all other categories will be limited to a maximum of $500,000. At its discretion, EOED may make partial awards, for an amount less than requested by an applicant or make grants over $500K, as appropriate. All funding for this program is subject to annual appropriation. Eligible Projects  The program will consider a variety of projects for funding support. Examples of project types that may be submitted for considered include, but may not be limited to the following (projects listed under the corresponding Development Continuum categories): Planning and Zoning Category (generally, grant requests are for consulting services) Create a housing production plan to better understand housing needs of the community and identify strategies to reduce gaps in existing housing relative to identified needs. If applicable, create a multi-family zoning district near a transit station to comply with M.G.L. Chapter 40A, Section 3A. Conduct a zoning review to identify and remove language that hinders economic growth, such as housing and/or commercial development. Create a plan to update zoning rules to unlock potential housing production and economic development growth. Site Preparation Category (generally entails hiring of consultants, engineers, and/or contractors) Create a site master plan, including predevelopment activities, on an underutilized commercial property with the intent to create mixed use that may include affordable housing. Conduct design, engineering, and/or permitting activities to address changes to existing water, sewer and stormwater in a prospective development site. Demolish a blighted building that cannot be recovered to prepare a portion of a parcel or an entire parcel for mixed-use redevelopment that may include affordable housing. Buildings (generally entails hiring of consultants, engineers, and/or contractors) Conduct design, engineering, and/or permitting activities to address ADA accessibility requirements for public buildings and resources. Rehabilitate housing to bring an underutilized property back onto the market. Provide further subsidies to an affordable housing project to directly create affordable housing units or increase the number of affordable units in a new housing project. Infrastructure (generally entails hiring of engineers and contractors) Conduct design, engineering, permitting, and construction for road improvements, including projects that address public safety concerns, such as dangerous road conditions and/or imminent collapse of a bridge or culvert. Conduct design, engineering, and/or permitting activities to address improvements to existing water, sewer and stormwater infrastructure. Conduct design, engineering, and/or permitting activities to address construction of a new water line connection to an adjacent town or making plans to consolidate water districts for an area served only by wells. Conduct design, engineering, permitting, and construction of alternative transportation infrastructure to address ADA accessibility requirements for pedestrians and cyclists between residential and/or commercial areas. Eligibility Criteria  A municipal government, or other public entity, from any Massachusetts town that meets (based on the 2020 Census data) the definition of a Rural Community (having less than 500 persons per square mile) and/or a Small Town (having a total population of 7,000 or less persons). Other public entities may include a Public Housing Authority, Redevelopment Authority, Water/Sewer District, Economic Development Industrial Corporation, a public body created by legislative act, etc. Regional Planning Agencies may also be eligible applicants if applying on behalf of a clearly identified and eligible public entity or entities within their assigned region, with clear and evident support from those communities. Applications must be submitted by a single lead applicant. However, a lead applicant may submit a joint application in partnership with one or more other eligible applicant(s). For more information, visit EOED.

This funding is designed to assist state and local governments in covering necessary expenses related to the COVID-19 public health emergency that were not included in their previous budgets.

This funding initiative provides financial support and business expertise to early-stage life science and biotechnology companies in Pennsylvania to foster innovation and job creation in the industry.

This program provides funding to address the environmental and safety risks posed by abandoned oil and gas wells in Pennsylvania.

This funding supports Idaho businesses in expanding their workforce and retraining employees to meet economic growth needs, ultimately fostering job creation and skill development.