New York Business and Commerce Grants

The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) is offering the Food Security Processing Grant Program, established in 2022 with a $1 million appropriation from the Utah State Legislature. This program aims to increase the processing capacity of agricultural products produced within the state of Utah, aligning with UDAF's mission to promote food security and support the agricultural industry. The program has received additional funding in 2023 and 2024, demonstrating a continued strategic priority to strengthen Utah's food supply chain. The primary target beneficiaries are Utah-based processors with no more than 100 employees that either use at least 51% of Utah-grown/raised ingredients or sell at least 51% of their products to Utah consumers. Meat and poultry processors have specific eligibility criteria, including being state-inspected "equal-to" plants, licensed custom-exempt slaughter plants, or Talmadge-Aiken (TA) or very small federally inspected plants. The impact goal is to enhance the state's capacity for processing agricultural products, thereby contributing to local food security and economic development within the agricultural sector. The program prioritizes a broad range of processing enhancements, covering expenses such as processing equipment (e.g., smoking units, sausage stuffers), coolers/freezers, portion cutters, slaughter equipment (e.g., cradles, saws, scalders), electronic sorting equipment (for items like apples, cherries, or peaches), and bottling equipment for juices. Contractor costs for essential infrastructure like plumbing, draining, venting, and electrical work are also eligible. A significant focus is placed on meat and poultry processing, with 50% of the funds specifically set aside for this area. Expected outcomes include an increase in the number and capacity of agricultural processing facilities in Utah. Measurable results will be demonstrated through the completion of planned improvements and equipment purchases by grant recipients between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025. Individual grant awards are capped at $200,000, with a portion of funds (up to $20,000) reserved for microgrants of $5,000 or less to support smaller-scale initiatives. The program's theory of change posits that by providing financial assistance for critical infrastructure and equipment, UDAF can directly stimulate growth in local processing capabilities, leading to a more resilient and self-sufficient food system for Utah residents.

This initiative supports local businesses and organizations dedicated to fostering economic growth in communities around Corning business locations. It focuses on empowering and supporting economic activities that align with Corning's values and objectives. Applications are reviewed continuously throughout the year to ensure timely support for impactful projects.

Grant Opportunity: Cattaraugus County Microenterprise Assistance Program Grant (New York) This program provides funding for microenterprises with five or fewer employees, owned by individuals meeting low- or moderate-income criteria as defined by HUD. Not-for-profit corporations are not eligible. Both existing and startup micro-businesses can apply, with startups defined as businesses that have filed structure documentation within the last 6 months. Applicants must submit a completed application, business plan, and proof of income and family size. The assisted business activity must result in the creation of employment positions consistent with low- and moderate-income benefit provisions. Proof of job creation and employee income will be required before grant funds are disbursed.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations and individual artists in Fulton, Montgomery, and Saratoga Counties to create public art projects that engage the community and enhance arts participation.

This program provides funding for community-based arts projects in Fulton, Montgomery, and Saratoga Counties, aimed at enhancing public engagement and accessibility to the arts.

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.

This grant provides funding for the rehabilitation of historic properties in small rural communities along the Erie Canal in New York, aiming to enhance local tourism and economic development.

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.

Herkimer County CARES Grant Program in New York is open to registered NYS for-profit legal business entities located within Herkimer County. Eligible activities include supporting businesses in manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, agriculture, high technology, research and development, and traditional and innovative small business endeavors. Technical assistance will be provided through the Mohawk Valley Small Business Development Center at no cost to the applicant. The grant aims to create or retain at least one new full-time equivalent job for low-to-moderate income individuals and allows reimbursement of eligible costs dating back to March 2020. Grant funds can be used for marketing adaption, community safety improvements, workforce development, safety enhancements to facilities, efficiency improvements, and air quality improvements. Previous funding received through COVID-19 reimbursement programs is allowed but cannot be duplicated through this program.

The New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) Support for Organizations grant program offers flexible general operating and programming funding for non-profit organizations across all counties in New York State. This grant aims to align with a mission of fostering a vibrant artistic and cultural landscape within the state by providing crucial financial support to organizations that contribute to the public's engagement with arts and culture. The program's design reflects a commitment to nurturing creativity and ensuring public access to diverse artistic experiences. Target beneficiaries for this grant include non-profit organizations, State or Federally recognized Native American nations, and units of local or federal government in New York State that offer arts/cultural programming open to the public. There is a strong emphasis on organizations that prioritize service to historically underrepresented communities and demonstrate conscientiousness in removing barriers to participation. The impact goals are to support well-designed, distinctive, and relevant programming that makes a significant and creative contribution to the field, artists, and/or the public, while also promoting inclusive marketing and active connections within local or artistic communities. The program's priorities and focuses are articulated through three main evaluation criteria: Creativity, Public Service, and Managerial & Financial. Creativity assesses whether programming reflects a clear artistic/cultural vision, is well-designed, distinctive, relevant, and makes a significant contribution. Public Service focuses on an organization's commitment to underrepresented communities, understanding of its service area, inclusive marketing, and community engagement. Managerial & Financial criteria ensure that organizations have skilled leadership, sound financial management, best practices in governance, and clear artist compensation information. Expected outcomes include a stronger, more diverse, and more accessible arts and cultural sector in New York State. Organizations receiving funding are anticipated to deliver high-quality, impactful programming that enriches communities and supports artists. Measurable results will be assessed through the application of the three evaluation criteria. While specific quantitative metrics are not detailed in the provided information, the qualitative criteria suggest that successful outcomes will be evidenced by programming that meets organizational missions, demonstrates clear public service, and is underpinned by strong managerial and financial practices. Awards range from $10,000 to $49,500, indicating a strategic allocation of resources to support a broad spectrum of eligible organizations.

The Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center (NE-DBIC) is offering the New Dairy Processor Start-up Grant program to support new dairy processing projects across the Northeast. The core mission of this program is to foster competitive dairy processing businesses with long-term viability. This aligns with a broader strategic objective of strengthening the regional dairy industry by enabling operations of all sizes to successfully launch and sustain their products in the marketplace. By focusing on start-up operations and tangible implementation, the NE-DBIC aims to facilitate direct economic impact and product innovation within the dairy sector. The program targets several key beneficiaries, including dairy farmers ready to begin processing, value-added entrepreneurs with proven experience in dairy processing or business startups, and dairy processors established after January 1, 2023, who are in their start-up phase. The impact goals are centered on developing these businesses, supporting their entry into the market, and ultimately contributing to the economic vitality of the Northeast dairy industry. By providing financial assistance for start-up operations, the program seeks to create new opportunities for dairy-related businesses and products. The program's priorities and focuses are clearly on tangible implementation rather than earlier stages like research and development, concept development, or initial planning. This indicates a strategic emphasis on getting products to market and establishing sustainable business models. Eligibility criteria further refine this focus, requiring applicants to be headquartered or based in the Northeast, demonstrate proof of concept, have a robust business plan, obtain necessary licenses, and show commitment from buyers or distributors by the end of the grant period. Expected outcomes include the successful launch of new value-added dairy products, the establishment of competitive and viable dairy processing businesses, and increased market access for Northeast dairy products. Measurable results would likely include the number of new businesses launched, the volume of new products brought to market, and the economic growth generated within the participating dairy sectors. The NE-DBIC's strategic priorities, as evidenced by this grant, involve direct investment in the operational start-up phase, aiming for a theory of change where targeted financial support leads to the successful commercialization and long-term sustainability of dairy processing ventures in the region.

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CT DOT) is offering the 2024 Active Transportation Microgrant Program to solicit projects aimed at improving active transportation. This grant program aligns with a mission to foster equitable, safe, accessible, and sustainable transportation options, thereby encouraging healthier and more environmentally friendly travel modes. The program's core objective is to make conditions safer for individuals of all ages to engage in walking, biking, and other active forms of transit, contributing to broader community well-being and environmental sustainability. The primary beneficiaries of this program include municipalities, schools, school districts, and nonprofit organizations, all of which are encouraged to apply. The impact goals are centered on enhancing access and conditions for active transportation users across Connecticut. This includes increasing safety for pedestrians and cyclists, promoting the use of non-motorized transport, and supporting educational initiatives that raise awareness about active transportation benefits and safety. The program prioritizes non-infrastructure projects, explicitly excluding design and construction costs. Eligible activities focus on improving access and conditions for active transportation users. This includes providing bicycle helmets, locks, lights, and maintenance training. It also covers the rental or purchase of bicycle fleets, including adaptive bicycles, League Cycling Instructor (LCI) training, and various programs and materials for pedestrian and bicycle safety education, such as safety vests. The emphasis is on practical, immediate interventions that directly support active transportation without requiring extensive infrastructural development. Expected outcomes and measurable results include an increase in the adoption of active transportation methods, a reduction in accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists due to enhanced safety measures, and a rise in community participation in active transportation events and educational programs. The funding limits for individual microgrants range up to $5,000, with an overall grant size between $1,000 and $10,000, indicating a focus on numerous smaller-scale, impactful projects rather than a few large ones. This approach suggests a strategic priority to broadly distribute resources to foster active transportation at a grassroots level across various communities in Connecticut.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations in the Berkshire Taconic region to support capacity-building projects that enhance governance, diversity, and overall effectiveness in serving their communities.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to small professional theaters in New York State with limited budgets, helping them enhance their operations and compensate artists while promoting inclusivity in the arts.

This program provides financial assistance to private landowners and organizations for planting new forests on non-forested lands of five acres or more in New York, helping to combat climate change and support local economies.

This grant provides funding for arts education projects in Warren and Washington Counties, NY, aimed at K-12 schools and community groups to promote hands-on artistic experiences.

This fellowship supports emerging and underrepresented women and non-binary artists in New York City by providing them with the opportunity to develop and exhibit their work, along with access to mentorship and professional development resources.

This funding opportunity supports non-profit organizations and public agencies in developing and sustaining small, community-focused agricultural projects, such as farmer's markets and urban gardens.

This funding opportunity is designed to support initiatives that promote tourism and enhance infrastructure in Delaware County, aimed at increasing visitor numbers and spending.

This grant provides funding for research projects that enhance the health of the Lake Champlain Basin, focusing on climate change adaptation, water quality, and community resilience, and is open to universities, nonprofits, and businesses in Vermont and New York.