California Business and Commerce Grants

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).

This program provides financial assistance to small businesses in San Mateo County that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, helping them cover operating expenses and recover from revenue losses.

The City of Oakley is excited to announce the second cohort of the Small Business Grant Program. Donor Name: City of Oakley State: California City: Oakley Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 06/26/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: This program is designed to support Oakley’s small businesses posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and financial market fluctuations. Eligible small businesses can receive a grant of either $2,500 or $5,000, based on the financial impact during the pandemic.  The grant amounts are determined by the total annual revenue in 2020 OR 2021 Businesses with an annual revenue of less than $100,000 are eligible for a $2,500 grant. Businesses with a total revenue of $100,000 or more can receive a $5,000 grant, acknowledging that larger businesses have greater operational needs and a more significant impact on the local economy. Use of Funds The grant can be used for essential business expenses such as implementing safety protocols, covering rent and utilities, retaining employees, and for marketing and promotional activities. Eligibility Criteria Must be located within Oakley City Limits. A valid City of Oakley Business License is required. Private corporations, LLCs, and similar entities are welcome. Publicly traded companies are not eligible. Must have fewer than 25 employees. Proof of financial hardship due to the pandemic. Business must have an “active” status with the California Secretary of State. For more information, visit City of Oakley.

This grant provides financial and volunteer support to nonprofit organizations in the Sacramento area that focus on youth development and promote diversity, equity, and community empowerment.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to individuals, organizations, and businesses looking to improve the community of Rancho Cordova through various projects and programs.

The California Department of Food and Agriculture is offering a grant of over $1 million for the implementation of dairy digesters on California dairy farms, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by converting methane into renewable energy, with a focus on projects that use at least 80% dairy livestock manure as feedstock.

The City of Vallejo received funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) that will be used to fund grants to local small businesses who have suffered negative impacts resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Donor Name: City of Vallejo State: California City: Vallejo Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 09/24/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Grants up to $3,000 for security improvements items, included but not limited to: Cameras Locks Window enhancements Eligibility Criteria For-profit and non-profit brick and mortar businesses located in Vallejo Businesses with valid Vallejo business license 20 or fewer employees Businesses with receipts of purchases made January 1, 2023, to September 24, 2024 For more information, visit City of Vallejo. Related Posts:City of Vallejo Hardening Grant – CaliforniaArtists' Business Initiative Grants (South Carolina)Catalyst Micro-Grant for Startups and Emerging…Request for Applications for Business Builder…Nominations open for Emerging Leaders 4 Under 40…TRANSFORM Business Grant to support EntrepreneursCity of Dubuque Small Business Support Grant Program (Iowa)City of Laurel Thrive Small Business Grant Program…Hawaiʻi FoundHer Uplifting Women Entrepreneurs ProgramCity of East Providence Washington Bridge Small…City of Dublin Hotel/Motel Tax Grant – OhioFemale Founder World Grant for Small BusinessesApply now for Heinz Black Kitchen InitiativeWashington Bridge Small Business Grant Program -…Science & Technology Business Startup Grant Program…Science & Technology Business Startup Grant Program…Oregon: Economic Development Grant ProgramKlamath County Tourism Grant Program in OregonTown of Christiansburg Façade Grant Program (Virginia)2025 Food Waste Reduction Grant (North Carolina)Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) – Illinois

This funding program provides financial support to local artists and nonprofit arts organizations in Los Angeles County to create engaging cultural arts projects that benefit the Burbank community.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations and local government agencies in Arizona, California, and Nevada to create jobs, provide job training, and assist low-income entrepreneurs and at-risk communities.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to Sacramento-based nonprofit cultural organizations and for-profit creative businesses to develop workforce training and internship programs for underserved youth and young adults aged 16-24.

The City of Indian Wells’ Grants-in-Aid program gives tax-exempt, non-profit organizations under Section 501(c)(3) with at least 5 years in business the opportunity to apply for funding to assist with community assistance and services provided to the Coachella Valley. Donor Name: City of Indian Wells State: County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 09/06/2024 Size of the Grant: Not Available Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The City of Indian Wells recognizes the importance of community-based organizations and/or groups, and the importance they play in providing various services or education in the communities they serve. The City further recognizes that, at times, circumstances may warrant that financial assistance be provided to some of these groups. The City endeavors to support community-based organizations that possess expertise in offering valuable community services and programs that the City does not offer for its own citizens. Eligibility Criteria  The decision-making process for agency funding allocations is based on several criteria, all of which should be considered in the agency’s review. Determination of any funding received shall be based upon these requirements: All agency or groups (“Applicant”) must be tax-exempt, non-profit organizations as defined under Section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code or government entities such as schools or municipalities. In accordance to IRS requirements, if you were to be awarded a grant, maintenance of proper financial records are required by each Applicant. Each agency shall keep accurate accounts of all receipts and expenditures and shall submit a compiled year-end report which included completion of the project by June 30 of year which agency is funded. To receive funding support from the City of Indian Wells, an Applicant must show evidence that it is meeting a Coachella Valley community need. The Applicant must be a community-based group, non-profit social agency, or area service provider that provides a program or service that benefits the residents of Indian Wells or the Coachella Valley at large. Applicant requests will not be considered appropriate use of City’s Grants-in-Aid include: start-up costs, administrative costs, overhead costs, and fundraising costs. The City will generally consider requests for funds that include: Expansion of initial service program Addition of new service/program or special project Purchase of specific items not related to start-up costs, necessary to providing services It is the City’s policy not to fund requests from Applicants for services that are normally supported by general tax dollars, represent a duplication of services which the City already provides funding or where the request comes from an applicant requesting funds for a service in another community, which is a type of service Indian Wells already funds for itself. The City expects that the Applicant has attempted to find the best possible pricing for requested line items through vetting options and pricing. The Applicant requesting funding must be in existence for a minimum of five (5) years in order to be considered for funding by the Grants-in-Aid Committee. Applicant does not rely solely on community assistance funding to remain viable and the services would cost more to the City if the City provided them directly. Fundraising events and sponsorships of events do not qualify for Grants-in-Aid funding. Grants are awarded on a single year basis. Funds will be forwarded upon completion of a Funding Agreement and all applicable terms of that agreement. The City may require proof of adequate and appropriate insurance coverage. The amount of funding can be allocated at any level, and will be determined by committee and approved by the Indian Wells City Council based on the approved City budget for grant funding. Individuals are not eligible for funding through the City of Indian Wells Grants-in Aid program Where the Applicant received funding for the current fiscal year, all documents must be submitted and agreement terms complete prior to funding disbursement for the following fiscal year. The Agreement is for the period of July 1 through June 30 of the following year. Services must be provided and funds must be disbursed during this time period. No payment will be made for services rendered after June 30 of the designated year (any unused funds must be returned to the City of Indian Wells). Incomplete applications will not be considered. Application and all supporting documents are to be submitted by the designated deadline to be considered for funding. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered for funding. For more information, visit City of Indian Wells.

This grant provides funding for individual artists, arts organizations, and small businesses in Chula Vista to create free cultural events and projects that promote community engagement and inclusivity in various artistic disciplines.

The City of Ventura offers Special Event Grants to event organizers who stage festivals and events in the city that activate public space and increase visitor spending. Donor Name: City of Ventura State: California City: Ventura Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 05/08/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Through the Special Event Grant Program, $10,000 in funding is awarded annually to champion community celebrations that attract residents and visitors, strengthen Ventura’s cultural identity and economic vitality, and promote entrepreneurial spirit and innovative partnerships between private sector and public agencies. Funding Information This Year: as approved by the Ventura City Council in their 2023-24 goals, up to $150,000 in one-time funding will be awarded in grants ranging from $1,000 – $20,000 to increase free and affordable community events in the City of Ventura. Eligibility Criteria  Be a City of Ventura-based organization with 501(c)(3) status or have a City of Ventura-based fiscal agent with 501(c)(3) status. The organization or its fiscal agent must have a City of Ventura address as its primary place of business. Be in compliance with all City codes, laws, and ordinances. Certify, by means of signature on the application, that they are not delinquent in repaying the City any debt, whether the debt arises from a tax, bill, loan, lease, or other financial obligation. Organizations with a delinquent indebtedness to the City are ineligible to receive funding through this grant. Be in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and operate so as not to discriminate on the basis of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, or disability. Have sa5sfied the requirements of any previously awarded City of Ventura-issued grant. For more information, visit City of Ventura.

This program provides funding to community groups and local organizations in Santa Rosa for projects that improve neighborhoods and foster community engagement, such as clean-ups, public art, and gardens.

The Creative Economy Fund (fka Creative Industries Incentive Fund) awards project grants to arts, cultural, and creative-based commercial businesses that are located in the City of San José and involved in the production or distribution of the arts, including manufacturers, service providers, presenters, and designers, among others. Donor Name: Center for Cultural Innovation (CCI) State: County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 06/17/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: Funding supports projects and activities aimed at building successful arts, cultural, and creative-based small businesses in San José.  The Creative Economy Fund is an initiative of the City of San José Office of Economic Development and Cultural Affairs (OEDCA). The Center for Cultural Innovation (CCI), a nonprofit intermediary focused on the economic security of individuals in the arts, is partnering with OEDCA to administer the Creative Economy Fund.  The goals of the Creative Economy Fund are to: Enhance San José’s creative economy. Bolster the growth and financial resilience of small arts, cultural, and creative-based businesses in San José. Provide financial support to artists and creative entrepreneurs (across all disciplines in both the non-commercial and commercial arenas). Funding Information For the 2024 grantmaking round, a total of $40,000 is available. Grants of up to $8,000 will be awarded through a competitive grant application process. Competitive applicants will contribute to the city’s cultural vibrancy, demonstrate readiness for project implementation, grow and achieve greater financial resilience, and demonstrate economic impact (e.g., attracting visitors, generating sales tax, creating jobs) in the City of San José. Competitive applicants will also reflect the City’s diverse cultural communities and creative-based commercial landscape. Period of Support     September 2024 – September 2025. Eligibility Criteria  To be eligible for Creative Economy Fund consideration, businesses must meet the following criteria:  Be a commercial enterprise, including small businesses (defined by the City of San José as businesses with 35 employees or less) and sole proprietorships (Note: businesses do not have to be brick and mortar; they can be online storefronts or nomadic enterprises); Be based in San José; Primarily provides a cultural, creative, or arts-related service or product;  Be in good standing with the City of San José, evidenced through possession of an active San José business tax certificate (aka business license, business permit)* and fulfillment of OEDCA or any other City department’s funding requirements, if applicable; and Cannot have a conflict of interest (family or financial relationships) with the boards, staff, and directors of CCI or OEDCA. The following are ineligible for funding consideration: Nonprofits; Individuals, organizations, or projects that will use a fiscal sponsor to receive grant funds if funding is approved; Businesses that are not arts, cultural, or creative-based;  Projects that are already funded through another Office of Cultural Affairs grant program;  Projects that have already taken place (funding can only be applied to expenses accrued during the grant period); and Incomplete Creative Economy Fund applications. For more information, visit CCI.

The Innovation Fund by Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors in California offers grants over $1 million to stimulate innovative public service projects and programs in areas like equitable access to services, economic vitality, and environment, available to IRS tax-exempt organizations operating in Contra Costa County, with application deadline on 10/07/2024.

This funding opportunity provides financial support and resources to help immigrants and individuals with limited English proficiency in California start or grow small businesses that address social challenges in their communities.

The Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA) is pleased to announce the 2023-2024 funding cycle of the Public-Space Activation Fund. Donor Name: City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs State: California City: Los Angeles Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 07/31/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: PAF projects fall under the following four categories: International Festivals & Intercultural Foods (IFIF): Grants generally ranging from $7,500 to $10,000 for activities that can also be categorized as either pop-ups or festival-style events (see public attendance requirements above), such as: community picnics, outdoor festivals, pop-up performance events, block parties, outdoor food/food-truck festivals, and creative enhancements to farmers markets with live performing arts and cultural activities. IFIF projects should embrace multicultural themes and promote opportunities for cross-cultural learning and feature entertainment that can take place at a range of street-adjacent, family-friendly spaces, such as: farmers markets, public parks, school yards, parking lots, and other publicly accessible outdoor spaces.

The City of Twentynine Palms is thrilled to announce the launch of its 2024-2025 Community Event Grant program. Donor Name: City of Twentynine Palms State: County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 06/30/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Aimed at showcasing the city’s vibrant culture and fostering community engagement, these grants offer support for events that celebrate Twentynine Palms’ character, diversity, and history. Funding Information Range of Event Grant Awards: The minimum amount allocated is $1,000, and the maximum amount allocated is $10,000. Partial Funding: The Event Ad Hoc Committee and the City Council reserve the right to not grant the full amount requested from the applicant. Distribution of Funds: Recipients will be provided with 75% of the funding upfront and the remaining 25% upon completion of the event. For instance, a grant awarded in the amount of $10,000 will be provided with $7,500 upfront and $2,500 upon completion. Eligibility Criteria  Non-profit organizations, businesses, and individuals are encouraged to apply. Prior experience in event organization is required to ensure the successful execution of proposed activities. Residency in Twentynine Palms is not mandatory. Goals: Events should showcase Twentynine Palms’ character, diversity, or history. Events should not be intended to celebrate or recognize a small group, such as reunions. It is encouraged that events be free to attend and open to the public. Event Location: Events must occur within the City of Twentynine Palms limits. Applicants must provide a preliminary Venue Agreement as part of their application. Target Audience: Events should primarily benefit the citizens of Twentynine Palms, enhancing their quality of life. ADA Accessibility: Events must be held at ADA-accessible venues, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity. For more information, visit City of Twentynine Palms.

The Entertainment Business Interruption Fund is here to assist small businesses in the entertainment industry who were impacted by COVID-19 pandemic and the double Hollywood Strikes. Donor Name: LA Small Business Development Center Network State: California County: Los Angeles County (CA) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 05/24/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The Entertainment Business Interruption Fund (BIF), funded by the American Rescue Plan (ARP), is designed to support qualified small businesses that serve the Entertainment Industry in Los Angeles County (County). Grant Awards Grant amounts are based on business revenue as shown on the most recently filed federal business tax return. Revenue Size: $1,000,000 – 3,000,000 Eligible Grant Size: $25,000 Revenue Size: equal or less than $999,999 Eligible Grant Size: $10,000. Eligible Uses of Funds The purchase of new certified equipment. Restock of liquidated inventory. Lease, rent, or mortgage payments. Payment of business debt accrued due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2023 double Hollywood Strikes. Costs resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and related health and safety restrictions, or business interruptions or closures incurred because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2023 double Hollywood Strikes. Employee payroll expenses. Working capital to continue operations. Payment of outstanding business expenses (supplier management, etc.) Grant awards may not be used by awardee for regranting or for any uses or expenses that the awardee has been, or will be, reimbursed for under any federal program. Eligibility Requirements For the purpose of this Program, a “qualified small business” means a business that meets all of the following criteria, as confirmed by the office or fiscal agent through review of revenue declines, other relief funds received, credit history, tax returns, payroll records, and bank account validation: Must be a for-profit business with $3 million or less in annual gross revenue as reflected in Applicant’s most recently filed, federal business tax return. Must have experienced at least a 70% loss of revenue due to the COVID -19 Pandemic from March 1, 2020 to present, as well as the 2023 double Hollywood Strikes between May 1, 2023 – November 30, 2023. At least 70% of revenue must come from the Entertainment Industry sector. Loss must be equal to or greater than grant amount requested. Business must have been registered to do business legally in the state of California and/or any other applicable jurisdiction prior to December 30, 2021, or other similar business filings. Active business currently in operation that is in good standing with all local, state, and federal taxing and licensing authorities. Must have a current physical location within the County of Los Angeles as of May 2023. Negative economic impacts from COVID – 19 Pandemic March 1, 2020 – present, as well as the 2023 double Hollywood Strikes between May 1, 2023 – November 30, 2023. Must not have received a grant funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) from Los Angeles County. Application must be submitted by a majority owner that is at least 18 years of age as of the date of application. For more information, visit LA Small Business Development Center Network.