Best Economic Services Grants

About

The Jewish Community Foundation helps donors achieve their philanthropic goals, while building a permanent pool of funds to ensure that Greater Hartford’s Jewish community is here forever.

Start a charitable fund with us. We invest your funds so they grow and continue to support the causes you love today and in perpetuity. Whether you want to invest in Jewish continuity, educate kids or support our seniors, the Foundation can help you put your vision into action.

Guided by Jewish values, we establish a culture of endowment giving throughout our community.

Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Hartford Grant

The Jewish Community Foundation has a responsibility to invest in the long-term strength and vitality of our community. Our grants support strategic programs and services that address a clear need in Greater Hartford’s Jewish community.

The Foundation does not fund ongoing operations, but rather looks for unique opportunities that – without the Foundation’s support – might not be possible. The Foundation’s community grants generally focus on Jewish organizations in the Greater Hartford area, for one or more of the following purposes:

• seed funding for innovative programs or programs that fill a need or service gap in the community
• capacity building support
• strategic capital
• in limited circumstances, one-time programs (maximum $10,000)

Community Grant Making Process

The Jewish Community Foundation accepts grant proposals on a rolling basis. They are reviewed by staff and a Grants Committee comprised of volunteer community members and approved by the Foundation’s Board of Trustees. Grant decisions are typically shared within 3-6 months of submission. The Grants Committee generally meets 4 times per year. Prior to applying, the Executive Director or chief staff person should consult with the Foundation’s grants department by sending an email to grants @ jcfhartford dot org.

When Applying to the Jewish Community Foundation, Consider the Following:

• A limit of one grant application from an organization will be considered each grant cycle.
• Focus on the strategic impact of the grant and its alignment with the long-term goals of the program and/or project. Grant reviewers require a comprehensive understanding of the “why” behind the proposal, not just the “what”.
• Put yourself in the position of grants committee members who are not familiar with your program. Anticipate the questions they might have and address these in your written proposal.
• Do not apply for a grant for a project to which you’ve already committed.
• The short and long-term goals are important in the consideration of any grant.
• The submission of a grant does not guarantee funding in part, or in whole, by the Jewish Community Foundation. The Foundation reserves the right to fund a grant at whatever level it deems appropriate.

The Human Service Fund (HSF) offers small grants aimed at 501(c)(3) organizations in Johnson County with annual budgets under $400,000. This initiative supports programs that enhance self-sufficiency and well-being among residents. In 2026, HSF allocated $473,880 to 19 programs, providing vital services to over 65,000 individuals. Eligible applicants can request up to $5,000 to develop specific services for 2027, fostering community resilience and addressing local needs.

About UCS

Since 1967, United Community Services has been a catalyst and resource to ensure that the human service system meets the needs of Johnson County, Kansas, residents. UCS is part of United Way of Greater Kansas City’s Impact 100 and provides information, trends analysis and documentation to enhance community-wide planning and decision-making. By promoting upstream, proactive approaches, UCS supports sustainable solutions that improve the long-term well-being of the entire community.

Overview

The Human Service Fund (HSF) is a pool of general tax dollars from local municipalities and County government that invest their support in area non-profit agency programs that help avoid, defer, or reduce costs that would otherwise be incurred by city or County governments. UCS provides local governments with a structured accountable system through which non-profit agencies competitively apply for and access funds to serve Johnson County residents. 

Initiated by County Commissioners in 1980, cities joined the partnership in 1990. In 2026, $473,880 was awarded to 19 programs that promote self-sufficiency and build well-being for Johnson County residents. In 2025, HSF grantees provided over 243,000 units of service – including medical and dental appointments, nights of shelter, job training and more – to nearly 65,000 Johnson County residents. 

Human Service Fund (HSF) : Regular Grants

501(c)(3) applicants who are current HSF grantees or are new applicants with an annual budget greater than $400,000 or seeking a grant amount of $5,000 or up to $60,000 for specific program(s)/service(s) to be delivered in 2027 that meet HSF Funding Priorities.

About Us

At AEDC, we know economic advancement doesn't happen by accident. We work strategically with businesses and communities to create strong economic opportunities, making Arkansas the natural choice for success.

Community Assistance Grant Program

The Arkansas Community Assistance Grant Program (CAGP) is intended to provide grant funds to cities, counties, and non-profit organizations of the State of Arkansas for eligible community and economic development projects and eligible non-profit organization projects. The amount of funding available to any one (1) project in any state fiscal year shall not exceed $1,500,000. The amount of the grant award shall be determined by AEDC based on eligibility criteria, availability of funding, and program demands, which may result in grant offers that are less than application requests. 

Is there a matching requirement?

The applicant must be able to match its grant award with cash, in-kind labor, in-kind materials, or in-kind land at a flexible 20% rate. The amount of matching funds/in-kind provided by the applicant will be taken into account in the application review process; a match is dependent on the project need and not all matches will be waived.

The value of all matching (including in-kind) must be documented by bank statements, official cost estimates for in-kind materials and labor, or official appraisals for land. Official cost estimates for in-kind materials and professional labor should document what the material or professional labor would cost if it were not being donated. Community labor being donated is equal to $18.04 per hour. Official appraisals for land may be in the form of an appraisal from a certified appraiser or a copy of the property assessment from the county clerk.

About

Intermountain Health is the largest nonprofit health system in the Intermountain West. We are dedicated to creating healthier communities and helping our patients thrive.

Community Health Investment Program

Platte Valley Hospital provides grant opportunities through the Community Health Investment Program (CHIP). The grant is meant to assist organizations with programs that improve the health of our community, especially for our low-income residents. Your grant application must show how you will impact the health of your target population. To be considered for a CHIP grant, your organization must meet most if not all, of these criteria:

• Support the mission of Platte Valley Hospital, “Helping people live the healthiest lives possible”
• Serve a demonstrated need in the community
• Proposals that involve collaboration with other community providers and organizations that are directly or indirectly involved with community health concerns will receive priority
• Have a reasonable financial request.

About RWJF

At the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, we take bold leaps to transform health in our lifetime and pave the way, together, to a future where health is no longer a privilege, but a right. We take our responsibilities seriously, and pledge to work in ways that reflect our values.

Connecting Champions for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging in the Health Professions

RWJF seeks to fund one lead organization or consortium to serve as a national network-weaver for diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) in the health professions. The selected grantee will connect and support leaders, organizations, and institutions across the ecosystem, strengthening relationships, aligning strategy and communications, and facilitating shared learning and collective action. By building the connections and infrastructure needed for collaboration, the grantee will help advance belonging, accountability, and systems change across health professions education and healthcare institutions.

Achieving a healthcare system grounded in equity requires both a diverse health professions workforce and institutions committed to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB). While diverse teams improve quality of care and health outcomes, RWJF has learned that increasing representation alone is insufficient without addressing structural and institutional barriers that shape belonging, leadership, advancement, and accountability. Structural racism and other forms of systemic inequity continue to limit opportunity across the health professions education and healthcare institutions.

Lasting change requires not only supporting diverse leaders, but also strengthening connections among educational institutions, healthcare organizations, professional associations, accrediting and credentialing bodies, students, advocates, community actors, and others within the health professions ecosystem, whose relationships, actions, practices, and mindsets shape health outcomes for the communities they serve. These relationships create the support, trust, shared learning, and coordinated action necessary to advance DEIB and build a more equitable healthcare system. 

The Dane G. Hansen Community Grant for Logan County, initiated by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, aims to support charitable projects in Northwest Kansas. Since its launch in 2015, it has enabled various initiatives in education, healthcare, economic development, and community beautification. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and educational institutions, while individual businesses are not eligible. This grant encourages community involvement and strategic planning to foster sustainable growth and enhance local quality of life.

Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council Initiative Grant

The Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council is the strategic economic advisory board representing the seven counties (Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester) that border NYC as well as major Northeast markets.

Funding Available:

• Up to $60 million

Empire State Development (ESD) has $60 million of capital grant funding available for the State’s Regional Economic Development Council Initiative, which helps drive regional and local economic development across New York State in cooperation with ten Regional Economic Development Councils (“Regional Councils”). The $60 million available includes $8 million for tourism projects, formerly offered though the Market New York Capital Grant program. Grant funding is available for capital-based economic development projects intended to create or retain jobs; prevent, reduce or eliminate unemployment and underemployment; increase business or economic activity in a community or Region; and/or expand, construct, restore or renovate New York State tourism destinations and attractions. Grant funding will be allocated among the ten regions, each represented by a Regional Council. Funding decisions will be based on each Regional Council’s strategic plan and subsequent progress reports that set out a comprehensive vision for economic development and specific strategies to implement that vision, coupled with New York State’s economic growth priorities. Funding will be awarded by the New York State Urban Development Corporation (d/b/a Empire State Development) at its discretion. 

About SCRA

The South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) was chartered in 1983 by the State of South Carolina as a public, non-profit organization. The mission of SCRA is to fuel South Carolina’s Innovation Economy by accelerating technology-enabled growth in research, academia, entrepreneurship, and industry. SCRA supports its stakeholders in key technology sectors, which include but are not limited to, Advanced Materials/Manufacturing; Life Sciences; Clean Tech, Sustainability, and Resilience, and Information Technology. SCRA grant funding is made possible, in part, by Industry Partnership Fund (IPF) contributions. Contributors receive a dollar-for-dollar South Carolina income tax credit, making it a no-cost way to create a direct, positive economic effect and job creation

Mission

Fuel South Carolina’s innovation economy by accelerating technology-enabled growth of academia, entrepreneurship, and industry.

Vision

SCRA will be a leading catalyst in making South Carolina the top choice for technology-focused industry, entrepreneurs, investors, and academics.

Federal Matching Grant (formerly SBIR/STTR Phase I)

Managed by the Academic Innovations Team, the objective of the Federal Matching Grant is further federal funds received by small businesses in South Carolina to advance translational research in support of one or more critical milestones towards commercialization. Other Federal matches will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Key milestones include developing the technology past the minimum viable product (MVP) and demonstrating product-market fit, in the DEVELOP stage of startup development. In the ACCELERATE stage of startup development, key milestones include enabling product execution through testing and demonstrations.

About FDOT

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is an executive agency and directly reports to Governor Ron DeSantis. FDOT’s continuing mission is to provide a safe statewide transportation system that promotes the efficient movement of people and goods, supports the state’s economic competitiveness, prioritizes Florida’s environment and natural resources, and preserves the quality of life and connectedness of the state’s communities. This mission is accomplished through a primary purpose to plan and develop (either directly or indirectly) Florida’s robust transportation system. The unique nature of the Sunshine State and its year-round warm climate provides numerous opportunities to move people and goods through multiple modes including highways/streets, air, rail, sea, spaceports, transit, and ever-expanding deployment of bicycle & pedestrian facilities.

The department is committed to building a transportation system that not only fits the current needs of Florida’s residents and visitors but also enhances mobility throughout the state to accommodate its consistent and rapid growth. FDOT is proud to recruit and retain some of the best and brightest professionals in the transportation industry who consistently help the department inspire innovation and improve safety for all of our transportation modes.

Florida Highway Beautification Grant Program

Thank you for your interest in the FDOT Beautification Grants. Grant funds are allocated by the legislature and budgets are approved by July 1 of each year.

It is available to State of Florida local governmental entities interested in providing landscaping and irrigation along State transportation facilities.

All completed applications received by Thursday, October 1, 2026 will be checked for completeness, assembled, and distributed to a panel selected by the Grant Coordinators. A virtual public meeting to discuss all received applications will be scheduled once applications are received.

Each panelist will independently rank each applicant prior to being combined into an overall ranked list of potential awards. Grants will be awarded in the order they appear on the ranked list and in accordance with available funding. Official notice of each grant award will be made by the Department by email to the Applicant named in the grant application.

To accept a grant, an Applicant must send a letter of acceptance by email to the Grant Coordinator within 15 days from the date of receipt of the offer of the award. Funds will be released by the Department when agreements are executed, the project is constructed as per plans approved by the Department, there is written final acceptance by the Department and receipts for grant expenses are reviewed and approved by the Department.

Women In Northfield Giving Support

WINGS inspires women in philanthropy, builds and strengthens community through pooled investments, and supports women and youth in the Northfield area through focused giving.

Grant Process

Overview

WINGS grants support programs that contribute to the health, safety, education, socialization, artistic growth, and economic stability of the Northfield area. WINGS grants, which are awarded to both new and existing projects, encourage innovative initiatives. In awarding grants, WINGS considers not only financial need, but also the immediate impact of the project and the ability of the project to build future capacity.

Guidelines

WINGS seeks projects with an emphasis on the following areas:

Basic Needs

Education

Physical and Mental Health

Women In Northfield Giving Support

WINGS inspires women in philanthropy, builds and strengthens community through pooled investments, and supports women and youth in the Northfield area through focused giving.

Grant Process

Overview

WINGS grants support programs that contribute to the health, safety, education, socialization, artistic growth, and economic stability of the Northfield area. WINGS grants, which are awarded to both new and existing projects, encourage innovative initiatives. In awarding grants, WINGS considers not only financial need, but also the immediate impact of the project and the ability of the project to build future capacity.

Guidelines

WINGS seeks projects with an emphasis on the following areas:

Basic Needs

Education

Physical and Mental Health

Oklahoma Department of Commerce

Here at the Department of Commerce, our job is to bring employment, investment, and economic prosperity to the state of Oklahoma. Through dynamic partnerships and innovative collaborations with companies, universities, not-for-profit organizations, and government leaders, we are building a business environment that supports business growth and shared community prosperity.

P3 Pooled Finance Program

Allows communities to utilize the state’s Pooled Finance Program for infrastructure development

This Public-Private Partnership (P3) program facilitates local infrastructure development where there is also a benefit to for-profit companies. Infrastructure development can include any critical infrastructure identified by local government entities contributing to the competitiveness of the region’s economy and essential for government functions.

P3 for Education and Workforce Development

Workforce development and access to skilled labor are critical factors for Oklahoma's companies to be competitive in the marketplace and for the continued success of the state's economic development efforts. Workforce boards, CareerTechs, colleges and universities have access to various tools that can help them obtain the necessary resources to develop a skilled workforce.

One of these tools is Oklahoma’s Public-Private Partnership for Education, a Public-Private Partnership (P3) program, that facilitates industry workforce development where there is also a benefit to for-profit companies and is intended to enhance an industry’s competitiveness, enhancing the region’s and state’s economy.

Projects must begin within 6 months of application approval. Awarded funds will not cover 100% of project costs.

What are eligible projects?

Projects where a CareerTech, college or university is providing industry-focused training that must be developed collaboratively with employers in a common industry.

How may the training be delivered?

Workforce training/instruction may be delivered solely by the applying entity or in conjunction with other eligible entities, which may include entities subject to State Department of Education (K-12). For example, a CareerTech may collaborate with a K-12 institution to provide industry-specific skills training.

How does it work?

• For-profit entities in a common industry that would benefit from specific skills development can collaborate with an applying entity to identify the skills required, method of delivery and tools needed to provide instruction.

• The qualifying educational institution would be allowed to capture state withholding taxes associated with those for-profit companies for a defined term to assist with the costs of developing a program and delivering the instruction.

Uses of funds can include the below:

• Assist with construction/renovation; or
• Purchase machinery/equipment; or
• Purchase training program; or
• Hire instructors (contract basis)

Kansas Department of Commerce

The Kansas Department of Commerce is committed to helping individuals, businesses and communities achieve prosperity in Kansas. One of the ways it accomplishes this mission is by providing financial assistance and partnership support to further identified goals. Most grants call for local matches and other required stipulations that vary by project.

Building Local Opportunity through Coordinated Kansas Investment (BLOCK) program

The Building Local Opportunity through Coordinated Kansas-Investment (BLOCK) Program is a competitive placemaking initiative designed to create a dramatic, highly visible transformation of one Kansas downtown block through coordinated public and private investment. BLOCK will provide up to $500,000 to one eligible community to bring multiple properties, projects, partners and investments together around a single block-level transformation. While exterior improvements are expected to be the primary focus, strategic interior improvements may also be eligible when they contribute to the overall transformation and can be completed within the required timeline. The winning community will be expected to move quickly, make big changes, create a visible “wow” factor and demonstrate how the investment will contribute to long-term economic impact.

The purpose of BLOCK is to demonstrate what can happen when a community stops looking at downtown projects one building at a time and instead coordinates investment across an entire block. Inspired by the rapid, collaborative transformations popularized by “extreme makeover” programs, BLOCK brings community partners, property owners, businesses, contractors and resources together to create a visible, concentrated transformation in a short period of time. 

Oklahoma Department of Commerce

Here at the Department of Commerce, our job is to bring employment, investment, and economic prosperity to the state of Oklahoma. Through dynamic partnerships and innovative collaborations with companies, universities, not-for-profit organizations, and government leaders, we are building a business environment that supports business growth and shared community prosperity.

Community Development Block Grant Programs

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program enables rural Oklahoma communities to finance a variety of public infrastructure and economic improvements and helps promote job growth as a result of these improvements. CDBG funds are provided by the federal government (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) and managed by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce to help ensure Oklahoma’s most critical needs are addressed.

CDBG Rural Economic Action Plan (REAP)

The CDBG REAP Program was developed in partnership with the Substate Planning Districts (SSPD) to make a greater impact on each district by matching CDBG funds dollar for dollar on each project in their respective area.

Washington State Department of Commerce

The Washington State Department of Commerce is the front door of government across our state. Our work touches every corner of Washington and impacts every community. We are advancing the most urgent needs facing our state: the transition to a clean energy economy, climate resilience, housing supply to meet our growing population, and the equitable engagement of communities, Tribes, local governments, and organizations.

Commerce fosters resilient communities by building partnerships, delivering resources, and advancing equity through responsive, transparent and collaborative public service. We invest in Washington’s future and communities, supporting equitable economic growth, innovative solutions, and a skilled workforce. We build and strengthen partnerships, systems, and projects, deploying solutions at scale and with community input. We serve communities, individuals, and our state by ensuring transformative projects and funding reach every Washingtonian; urban, rural, and Tribal, and we are committed to supporting the Commerce team who serve our state with such dedication.

Capital Project Capacity Grants for Federally-Recognized Tribal Governments

The Washington State Department of Commerce’s Community Capacity Initiative is accepting applications for FY2027 Capital Project Capacity-Building Grant Program. These grants will help eligible organizations strengthen their capacity and advance viable capital projects that directly benefit overburdened communities in Washington. Funding may support a critical next step in an early-stage capital project, including targeted technical assistance and predevelopment activities. Priority will be given to projects in overburdened communities that address housing, energy or infrastructure needs and to applicants and communities with limited financial capacity.

Awards will be made through a competitive process. Commerce anticipates awarding a limited number of grantees across the three applicant tracks, depending on the applications received, requested amounts, and available funding. Applicants must apply through one of three tracks: Washington local governments, Federally recognized tribal governments, and Federally designated nonprofits registered in Washington.

Washington State Department of Commerce

The Washington State Department of Commerce is the front door of government across our state. Our work touches every corner of Washington and impacts every community. We are advancing the most urgent needs facing our state: the transition to a clean energy economy, climate resilience, housing supply to meet our growing population, and the equitable engagement of communities, Tribes, local governments, and organizations.

Commerce fosters resilient communities by building partnerships, delivering resources, and advancing equity through responsive, transparent and collaborative public service. We invest in Washington’s future and communities, supporting equitable economic growth, innovative solutions, and a skilled workforce. We build and strengthen partnerships, systems, and projects, deploying solutions at scale and with community input. We serve communities, individuals, and our state by ensuring transformative projects and funding reach every Washingtonian; urban, rural, and Tribal, and we are committed to supporting the Commerce team who serve our state with such dedication.

Capital Project Capacity Grants for Local Governments

The Washington State Department of Commerce’s Community Capacity Initiative is accepting applications for FY2027 Capital Project Capacity-Building Grant Program. These grants will help eligible organizations strengthen their capacity and advance viable capital projects that directly benefit overburdened communities in Washington. Funding may support a critical next step in an early-stage capital project, including targeted technical assistance and predevelopment activities. Priority will be given to projects in overburdened communities that address housing, energy or infrastructure needs and to applicants and communities with limited financial capacity.

Awards will be made through a competitive process. Commerce anticipates awarding a limited number of grantees across the three applicant tracks, depending on the applications received, requested amounts, and available funding. Applicants must apply through one of three tracks: Washington local governments, Federally recognized tribal governments, and Federally designated nonprofits registered in Washington.

Strategic Multi-Modal Investment Funds

Recognizing the significance Multi-Modal infrastructure has on the State’s economy and its importance to the citizens for jobs and the transportation of goods and services, the Mississippi Legislature established the Strategic Multi-Modal Investments Fund (SMIF) during the 2023 Regular Session. The SMIF was established to increase the capacity for the movement of freight and increase economic activity at the airports, ports and railroads located in this state and to support long-term economic growth in the state. The legislature provided the necessary authority to initially fund the program up to $30 million.

In continuation of the program, the 2026 Legislative Session earmarked $10 million of Capital Expense funds received by MDOT. In accordance with Miss. Code Ann. § 65-1-901 and rules and regulations established by the Department, MDOT will administer the Strategic Multi-Modal Investments Fund for necessary investments and repairs to airports, ports, and railroads in the state.

In accordance with the legislation, the following goals have been established:

• Goal 1 – Fund projects that increase the capacity for freight movement in the State.
• Goal 2 – Fund projects that increase economic activity at the ports, airports and railroads within the State.
• Goal 3 – Fund projects that support long-term economic growth in the State.

Multi-Modal Transportation Improvement Program

The Multi-Modal Transportation Improvement Program (MTIP) is administered by the Mississippi Department of Transportation for the improvement of airports, ports, railroads, and transit systems in the state.

Airport, port, and rail projects must be related to capital improvements or the rehabilitation of basic infrastructure and outside of the normal operating budget. Transit projects include capital and certain other expenses that meet FTA eligibility requirements. Projects cannot be for routine maintenance or administrative or operational expenses.

Washington State Department of Commerce

The Washington State Department of Commerce is the front door of government across our state. Our work touches every corner of Washington and impacts every community. We are advancing the most urgent needs facing our state: the transition to a clean energy economy, climate resilience, housing supply to meet our growing population, and the equitable engagement of communities, Tribes, local governments, and organizations.

Commerce fosters resilient communities by building partnerships, delivering resources, and advancing equity through responsive, transparent and collaborative public service. We invest in Washington’s future and communities, supporting equitable economic growth, innovative solutions, and a skilled workforce. We build and strengthen partnerships, systems, and projects, deploying solutions at scale and with community input. We serve communities, individuals, and our state by ensuring transformative projects and funding reach every Washingtonian; urban, rural, and Tribal, and we are committed to supporting the Commerce team who serve our state with such dedication.

Capital Project Capacity Grants for Non-profit Organizations

The Washington State Department of Commerce’s Community Capacity Initiative is accepting applications for FY2027 Capital Project Capacity-Building Grant Program. These grants will help eligible organizations strengthen their capacity and advance viable capital projects that directly benefit overburdened communities in Washington. Funding may support a critical next step in an early-stage capital project, including targeted technical assistance and predevelopment activities. Priority will be given to projects in overburdened communities that address housing, energy or infrastructure needs and to applicants and communities with limited financial capacity.

The FY23 Bellows Falls Intermodal Center Rehabilitation grant aims to restore the passenger station to a state of good repair, enhancing its appeal and functionality as an intermodal transportation hub. This initiative will not only improve transit services but also play a pivotal role in the economic revitalization of the surrounding community. The grant will be administered by the Vermont Agency of Transportation, ensuring effective utilization of funds for community development.

Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation

The Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation (FPR) is responsible for the conservation and management of Vermont’s forest resources, the operation and maintenance of the State Park system, and the promotion and support of outdoor recreation for Vermonters and our visitors. In addition, FPR is responsible for the acquisition, planning coordination and administration of all Agency of Natural Resources lands. Department employees are stationed throughout Vermont, including offices in Montpelier and at five regional locations.

VOREC Community Grant Program

The VOREC Community Grant Program (VCGP) is intended to fund community projects that support and grow local economies by leveraging outdoor recreation. 

The Vermont Outdoor Recreation Economic Collaborative (VOREC) Community Grant Program supports outdoor recreation projects that drive economic growth and enhance community well-being. Funded by one-time allocations by the Vermont General Assembly, we are launching the fifth VCGP grant round this fall. 

In order to maximize the impact of the available funding, the upcoming grant round will focus on project development and promotion. This grant will fund projects that will support local outdoor recreation economies, but need design, scoping, or planning work done to unlock other funding. This program will also help communities and organizations share information about their amazing recreation resources and businesses by supporting marketing, branding, and other promotion. 

The upcoming grant round will be closely tied to the vision, common objectives, and themes of Move Forward Together Vermont. The scoring system will be designed to elevate projects that address equity and climate resilience. Example projects that might score well could include:  

• Contracting a landscape architect to complete a park design for a FEMA buyout property  
• Creating a regional outdoor recreation marketing plan to attract outdoor recreationists to downtown businesses  
• Community-informed planning for both building and sharing information about accessible trails  
• Program development for classes or community events focused on building confidence in the outdoors   
• Creating a town-wide outdoor recreation wayfinding plan and installing signs/kiosks using accessible signage principles  
• Developing a community economic recovery plan focused on supporting local businesses, and outdoor recreation resources following emergencies and natural disasters.   
• Developing a climate risk mitigation plan and preparing permit applications for identified trail improvement projects. 

Nebraska Department of Economic Development

Since 1967, the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) has been focused on growing and diversifying the state’s economic base, bringing new dollars, new businesses, and new people into the state. DED's mission is to provide quality leadership and services that enable Nebraska’s communities, businesses, and people to succeed in a global economy. We are here, equipped and ready, to assist you and your community in developing and capitalizing on economic development opportunities.

Community Development Block Grant

The federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program provides funding for community and economic development projects in order to encourage additional federal, state and private resource investment. Communities receiving CDBG funds use the grants to provide safe and sanitary housing, a suitable living environment and expanded economic opportunities. The Nebraska DED administers the CDBG program for most of the state. Due to population size, some cities in Nebraska are the administrators of the CDBG program in their communities. DED receives federal funds for CDBG from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) on an annual basis.

CDBG Downtown Revitalization

CDBG funds can be utilized for downtown revitalization projects. The purpose of the Downtown Revitalization (DTR) Opportunity is to leverage investments that will contribute to the revitalization or redevelopment of downtown infrastructure and develop a greater capacity for growth, addressing health and safety concerns and commercial revitalization within the traditional business centers of our Nebraska communities. This provides a sound basis for fostering local economic development through public and private sector partnerships. This recognizes the importance of the condition and viability of a downtown to increase the community’s tax base and cultivates a tangible center for community activity. These projects directly relate to business retention, expansion, and location decisions, recognizing that downtowns reflect the economic core and persona of our communities.

The Regional Rural Development Grant Program

The FloridaCommerce Regional Rural Development Grant program was established by Section 288.018, Florida Statutes, to encourage rural communities to leverage limited resources by utilizing regional economic development organizations to develop and implement long-term strategies that will help:

• Attract new businesses;
• Grow existing businesses; and
• Build the innovative and adaptive capacity of rural leaders who are active in decision-making roles in their communities.

An organization may receive up to $50,000 or $250,000, if representing two or more rural counties, recommended by the Rural Economic Development Initiative and designated by the Governor.

Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development

The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) partners with state, federal, local and nonprofit housing and community and economic development initiatives. DHCD programs strive to maintain the vibrancy of communities throughout the Commonwealth and include providing universal broadband access, investing in economic development initiatives, promulgating the statewide building and fire regulations, preserving the affordability and efficiency of Virginia’s homes and buildings, addressing homelessness, reducing eviction rates across the state and fostering innovative solutions to create affordable housing. DHCD invests over $350 million annually in addition to $2 billion in federal recovery programs as a partner to Virginia communities to create safe, affordable and prosperous communities to live, work and do business in Virginia.

Virginia Enterprise Zone – Job Creation Grant

The Virginia Enterprise Zone (VEZ) program is a partnership between state and local government that encourages job creation and private investment. VEZ accomplishes this by designating Enterprise Zones throughout the state and providing two grant-based incentives, the Job Creation Grant (JCG) and the Real Property Investment Grant (RPIG), to qualified investors and job creators within those zones, while the local government provides local incentives.

Highlights

• Up to $500 annually per grant eligible position filled by an employee earning at least 150% (125% in HUAs and SWAM-certified businesses) of the minimum wage, who was offered health benefits. ["Minimum wage" means the federal minimum wage or the Virginia minimum wage, whichever is higher. The Department shall determine whichever is higher for the current calendar year as of December 1 of the prior calendar year, and its determination shall be continuously in effect throughout the calendar year, regardless of changes to the federal minimum wage or the Virginia minimum wage during that year.]
• Up to $800 annually per grant eligible position filled by an employee earning 175% of the Virginia minimum wage who was offered health benefits.
• For High Unemployment Areas and SWAM-certified Businesses, annual cash grant of $500 per job for jobs paying at least 125% of the minimum wage; $800 per job for jobs paying 175% of the minimum wage.
• Qualifying companies may claim the grants on up to a maximum of 350 jobs per year.
• Requires a four-job threshold to establish a five-year grant period.
• Only full-time jobs with health benefits are eligible.

Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development

The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) partners with state, federal, local and nonprofit housing and community and economic development initiatives. DHCD programs strive to maintain the vibrancy of communities throughout the Commonwealth and include providing universal broadband access, investing in economic development initiatives, promulgating the statewide building and fire regulations, preserving the affordability and efficiency of Virginia’s homes and buildings, addressing homelessness, reducing eviction rates across the state and fostering innovative solutions to create affordable housing. DHCD invests over $350 million annually in addition to $2 billion in federal recovery programs as a partner to Virginia communities to create safe, affordable and prosperous communities to live, work and do business in Virginia.

Virginia Enterprise Zone – Real Property Investment Grant

The Virginia Enterprise Zone (VEZ) program is a partnership between state and local government that encourages job creation and private investment. VEZ accomplishes this by designating Enterprise Zones throughout the state and providing two grant-based incentives, the Job Creation Grant (JCG) and the Real Property Investment Grant (RPIG), to qualified investors and job creators within those zones, while the locality provides local incentives.

Highlights

The RPIG is available to investors that are undertaking rehabilitation, expansion, or new construction projects within the boundaries of an Enterprise Zone. The building or facility must be:

• Commercial: Including office and retail
• Industrial
• Mixed-use: At least 30% of usable floor space is devoted to commercial, office, or industrial use

Ignite WisconsinThis program is designed to increase entrepreneurial density and strengthen startup ecosystems across Wisconsin. Dense, well-connected ecosystems—where entrepreneurs, institutions and support organizations collaborate seamlessly and productively—are proven to catalyze innovation, reduce barriers to entry, and accelerate learning. These ecosystems also elevate regional and sector-based reputations, attracting talent, capital, and additional entrepreneurial activity.The program supports the development of collaborative, founder-centric ecosystems that enable scalable, high-growth startups. It prioritizes strategic investment, coordination, and capacity-building to ensure startups have access to the networks, capital, and technical assistance required to thrive. This program requires a consortium-based model to align with a broad range of partners including higher education, industry, and support organizations. The consortium-based model fosters shared vision, coordinated efforts, expanded capacity, and collective impact.

Assisting Our Neighbors In Need

We are investing in what’s most important to Michigan – its people, our planet and Michigan’s prosperity. We award grants for capital funding and innovative projects and campaigns that align with our priorities for each.

Grant seekers are encouraged to review our priorities and ensure projects/programs align with the outcomes we seek. Metrics related to outcomes will be requested within the grant application.

What type of projects does the Consumers Energy Foundation fund?

The Consumers Energy Foundation funds capital projects and provides program and operation support in alignment with our commitment to Michigan’s people, planet and prosperity. Our priorities include reducing poverty levels/ALICE numbers in Michigan by focusing on basic needs, education and workforce readiness; protecting/preserving Michigan’s land, water & air; and economic development by focusing on neighborhood revitalization, job growth, and arts and culture.

Check Your Grant Request Against These Standards: People; Planet; and Prosperity

Grant Priorities: Prosperity

Will your project/program contribute to Michigan’s economy by creating safe, desirable neighborhoods, supporting job growth and entrepreneurs, or attracting visitors?

Growing Our Local Economy and Resources

The Consumers Energy Foundation is dedicated to ensuring Michigan businesses and communities are growing and have world-class cultural resources. We’re deeply involved in community development efforts across the state. We award grants supporting our economic development priority to improve the welfare of whole communities, with a focus on funding projects with long-term benefits on Michigan’s economy.