Best Economic Services Grants

The Downtown Investment Grants (DIGs) program, operated by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, supports Main Street organizations in revitalizing historic commercial districts. By providing funding for projects that require a 2:1 match, DIGs aim to enhance economic improvement, foster community investment, and empower local leadership. Projects funded through DIGs should align with the Main Street organization's mission and address specific transformation strategies to ensure sustainable development and community engagement.

The NH Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program offers financial assistance to eligible municipalities for planning and transformative projects aimed at improving community viability. Grants support public facilities, affordable housing, economic development, and microenterprise initiatives, prioritizing low and moderate-income populations. With a focus on innovative solutions and partnerships, the program encourages municipalities to address pressing community needs effectively. The funding is administered by the New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority and is available on a rolling basis until all funds are allocated.

The NH Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program provides essential funding for economic development projects in New Hampshire. Aimed at enhancing communities, it supports initiatives such as public facilities improvements, affordable housing, job creation, and microenterprise development. These grants empower low and moderate-income individuals by financing infrastructure, training, and entrepreneurial support, fostering sustainable growth and revitalization in eligible municipalities.

The Grand Victoria Riverboat Fund Program, established by Kane County, supports projects that enhance education, environmental initiatives, and economic development within the community. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations and local government units. The program prioritizes projects that promote collaboration, practicality, and long-term solutions for community challenges. Notably, funds cannot be used for operating expenses or projects outside Kane County. Favorable consideration is given to initiatives that have broad impact and are designed for replication.

The Blue Impact Grants, offered by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas, aim to enhance community health by supporting nonprofit organizations in Texas. With a focus on social determinants of health, these grants prioritize initiatives addressing economic stability, nutrition, and local health solutions. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified and demonstrate financial capacity to manage projects effectively. The goal is to foster health equity and improve access to essential services for underserved populations across the state.

The Nonprofit Leadership Grant Program by the Black United Fund of Oregon aims to empower BIPOC-led grassroots organizations through a $10,000 grant and a year-long leadership curriculum. This program focuses on developing essential skills in fund development, operations, and marketing. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and serve BIPOC communities in Oregon and SW Washington, with a net income below $600,000, ensuring support for those most in need.

The Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation supports the Consolidated Communications Fund for Economic Development and Community Leadership, aiming to enhance community vitality through grants. These grants will aid organizations in workforce skill development, encourage entrepreneurship, and strengthen leadership capacity. The fund recognizes the vital role of nonprofits and community leaders, offering resources to empower them in building a robust local economy. Projects may include training opportunities and enhancements to communication infrastructures, fostering collaboration and innovation.

The Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization (AMLER) Program, administered by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, addresses abandoned mine lands in Appalachia. This initiative provides crucial funding for reclamation efforts that promote both environmental restoration and local economic development. Since 2017, Ohio has received over $100 million to revitalize communities affected by mining. The program targets areas with significant unfunded AML issues, fostering sustainable growth and enhancing community well-being.

The Cloud County Economic Development Fund, managed by the Greater Salina Community Foundation, aims to enhance community well-being through grants for projects that foster economic and community development in Cloud County. Eligible recipients include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. The fund supports innovative initiatives and capacity-building activities, while disallowing political projects and funding for past debts. Applications are accepted monthly, promoting ongoing community engagement and development.

The OCCF: Rapid Response Grant program supports nonprofit organizations in Owen County by providing up to $1,000 for emergency and time-sensitive needs. With no application deadline, these grants aim to enhance the quality of life for all residents. The OCCF focuses on various funding categories, including education, human services, and community wellness, reflecting its commitment to addressing immediate challenges and fostering long-term community development.

The Community Foundation of Jackson County offers Capacity Building Grants aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of nonprofit organizations in Jackson County, WV. These grants support projects that provide technical assistance and training, allowing organizations to better fulfill their missions. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities located in Jackson County, ensuring their projects have a direct impact on local communities. The Foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate significant community benefits and potential for sustainable development.

The Community Foundation of Jackson County offers Program Development Grants to support the creation and expansion of services addressing unmet community needs. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $10,000, with eligibility for non-profit organizations and public institutions serving Jackson County residents. Priority is given to projects that significantly impact the community, reach new audiences, and enhance organizational capacity. This initiative aims to foster community development through innovative programs and collaborative efforts.

The Community Foundation of Jackson County offers Community Grants to support projects that enhance the quality of life for residents in Jackson County, WV. With a focus on capital and equipment projects, these grants assist non-profit organizations in achieving significant community impact through various sectors, including health, education, and economic development. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) and serve the local community, ensuring that funds are utilized effectively.

The B.A. & Esther Greenheck Foundation Grant, established in 1998, supports projects under $5,000 that enhance arts, education, health, economic, and social development in North Central Wisconsin. Applications are reviewed monthly, with deadlines on the last Wednesday of each month. The foundation encourages diverse funding sources and prefers not to fund the same organization more than once a year. Clear and concise applications are welcomed to ensure meaningful community impact.

The Adtalem Global Education Foundation, established in 2010, is dedicated to enhancing education and community development. Based in Chicago, it focuses on expanding educational access, particularly for underrepresented minorities in the healthcare sector. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that promote economic growth through skills-based workforce development, address healthcare disparities, and increase access to quality education for underserved populations. Its commitment to civic engagement and equality reflects its mission to empower communities.

The Ameren Missouri Grant Program supports local organizations and community events in Missouri and Illinois, enhancing the quality of life for residents. Grants vary in amount and are typically awarded during a mid-year cycle lasting 30 days. Eligible applicants must be nonprofits serving communities where Ameren operates, while ineligible entities include individuals and for-profit organizations. This initiative reflects Ameren's commitment to community development and engagement.

The Whatcom Community Foundation is offering Health & Wellness Grants to local nonprofits in Whatcom County. These mini grants, ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, aim to tackle staff fatigue and burnout. Eligible organizations can propose various initiatives including wellness programs, ergonomic improvements, and staff retreats. The funding is designed to enhance physical and mental health, foster a positive work environment, and ultimately improve job satisfaction among nonprofit teams.

Bioprocessing Research Infrastructure Program (IL)

Notice of Funding Opportunity Intent

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (the “Department” or “DCEO”) is issuing this Notice of Funding Opportunity (“NOFO”) to seek to promote bioprocessing in Illinois by providing assistance with the infrastructure and capital equipment necessary to expand bioprocessing training and research capacity in the state.

Program Description

The bioprocessing industry continues to grow. With continued investments and expansions in infrastructure, Illinois has the existing industry, feed stock, and talented workforce to be a global leader in this market.

• Purpose of this Program
  • Invest in capital projects that increase bioprocessing company development in Illinois
  • Increase undergraduate student training opportunities in bioprocessing in Illinois
  • Increase short course offerings for existing industry workers in bioprocessing in Illinois.

Program History

This is a new program with limited awards and supported though the Enterprise Fund administered by the DCEO. Enterprise Fund grants may encompass a wide range of economic development projects including infrastructure, capital equipment purchases and any expenditures that will result in job creation in Illinois. The funds may be used for bondable costs, but can also be used for non-bondable capital expenses.

A successful grantee within this program will have the ability to purchase land within 30 days of notification of this grant award. Additionally, a successful grantee will be able meet all requirements included within the grant agreement. The grantee will be required to report on the expenditure of funds related to capital investment from the time of grant award through grant closure in order to receive the grant funds. The grantee must be able to articulate how the enterprise grant funds support economic development, the creation and retention of jobs in Illinois, and the overall wellbeing of citizens.

Funding

$5000000 - $10000000

The Georgia Community Development Block Grant (Annual) aims to support various eligible activities, including housing improvements and public facilities. With funding available up to $1,250,000 for multi-activity projects, it requires local matching funds based on the grant amount. This program primarily benefits low and moderate-income individuals, ensuring communities can enhance their infrastructure and services effectively.

Background

The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) is a federally funded program that provides formulaic grants to alleviate the conditions of poverty in communities. The objective of CSBG is to address the causes of poverty by implementing programs and services that empower low-income families and individuals, revitalize low-income communities, and improve the economic self-sufficiency of low income customers.

CSBG funding supports projects that:

• Lessen poverty in communities
• Address the needs of low-income individuals including the homeless, migrants and the elderly
• Provide services and activities addressing employment, education, better use of available income, housing, nutrition, emergency services and/or health

CSBG Service Categories & Eligible Activities

• Education
  • vocational skills training, cultural opportunities for disadvantaged children, GED assistance for high school dropout, adult and youth literacy training.
• Employment
  • job creating economic development programs which result in the employment and self-sufficiency of low-income persons.
• Health & Social Development
  • health related activities including transportation to medical services, medical and dental screening, immunizations, prevention and treatment assistance and medication prescriptions and other related services.
• Housing
  • includes aid to renters seeking a residence, landlord/tenant rights education and arbitration
• Income Management
  • programs to encourage better use of available income that includes family budget counseling, financial management, credit, income taxes and social security.
• Self-Sufficiency/Multiple Domain
  • comprehensive family case management programs that promote, empower and nurture family members toward self-sufficiency.

The Bluestone Bank Charitable Foundation supports local organizations through financial grants, prioritizing initiatives that aid low- and moderate-income households. Key funding areas include affordable housing, economic development, health services, and education. With an average grant of $5,000 awarded annually, applicants can submit one request per year. The Foundation encourages projects that create a positive community impact, although it does not fund individual scholarships or political activities.

The Greater Pine Area Endowment Grant provides vital funding to support long-term economic and community development initiatives within ISD 578. This grant focuses on projects that create quality jobs, enhance community pride, and improve the lives of vulnerable populations. Organizations eligible for funding include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and local government units, aiming to foster growth and well-being in the greater Pine area.

Blue Meridian Partners Grant aims to transform lives of young people and families in poverty by investing in scalable strategies that enhance economic and social mobility. The organization seeks stand-alone nonprofits with a proven track record, a compelling vision, and strong leadership. With a commitment to performance-based investing, Blue Meridian provides significant capital, often exceeding $100 million, to foster impactful solutions and address pressing social challenges effectively.

The Field-of-Interest Grant Program - Economic Development supports local nonprofits in Mendocino County with grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,500. This program prioritizes initiatives that enhance economic sustainability through technical assistance, financial literacy, and innovative projects. Established in 2016, it aims to foster a healthy and equitable local economy, encouraging collaborative efforts to secure sustainable funding for various community sectors.

The Jeanne D'Arc Credit Union Donation Request aims to support local non-profits that enhance community well-being through initiatives focused on health, education, and economic revitalization. The foundation encourages applications for event sponsorships and charitable projects that align with their mission of fostering vibrant neighborhoods and providing essential services. Interested organizations should submit requests at least six weeks before their events for timely consideration.

The Walters Family Foundation Fund aims to enhance Michigan communities through funding initiatives focused on conserving the natural environment, promoting arts and culture, advancing economic vitality, and empowering youth through innovative learning programs. With a minimum grant request of $25,000, eligible applicants must be Michigan-based public charities recognized as tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3). The foundation prioritizes projects that align with its mission of fostering community engagement and stewardship.

The Giving in Action Grants - Make a Difference Grant provides funding between $25,000 and $50,000 for nonprofits serving the areas of Arts & Culture, Community & Economic Development, Education, Environmental & Conservation, and Health & Human Services. Organizations located outside the service region are eligible to apply. This initiative supports special projects and expanded programming to benefit communities in specific counties of Illinois and Iowa.