Best Job Creation Grants in Mississippi

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.

Nonprofit organizations building pathways out of poverty through job creation and workforce readiness in Mississippi can access funding and capacity-building support through Arbor Brothers. Grants from Arbor Rising provide US $125,000 - US $175,000 per year in flexible, multi-year support plus intensive consulting to strengthen strategy, financial management, data, and leadership systems.

Mississippi nonprofits and community organizations working on job creation, small business development, or broader economic development can seek funding to strengthen local economies. Regions Bank supports programs in communities it serves that advance economic and community development, education and workforce readiness, and financial wellness, including affordable housing, workforce training, and financial education initiatives.

Organizations creating jobs or supporting entrepreneurs in impoverished communities, including those in Mississippi, can apply for the Fish Family Foundation of Maine’s grants to fund small business development and employment initiatives. Faith-based groups, ministries, and nonprofits with strong leadership, sound procedures, and responsible financial practices may be especially competitive.

Mississippi organizations in eligible Appalachian counties working on job creation and workforce development can access funding for planning or implementing economic revitalization projects in coal-impacted communities. Appalachian Regional Commission’s POWER Initiative supports efforts that diversify local economies, build competitive workforces, foster entrepreneurship, and expand broadband, with awards up to US $2,500,000.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Mississippi with audited expenses over $2 million can seek more than US $100,000 from the William Randolph Hearst Foundation for social service programs. Funding supports proven, scalable efforts in job creation, workforce preparation, economic development, and related services that promote economic independence and strengthen families across the U.S.

Dental students, residents, and early-career dentists in Mississippi can receive US $5,000 to attend approved leadership training that advances oral health and related employment opportunities. With a mission to support emerging oral health leaders, ADA Foundation provides funding for tuition, travel, meals, and lodging for American Management Association or ADAF-approved courses.

Nonprofit and community leaders focused on job creation and economic mobility in Mississippi and across the U.S. can access a five-month Big Bets Fellowship that develops leadership skills and advances systemic solutions. Rockefeller Foundation provides US $5,000 stipends, intensive curriculum, mentorship, and network access to support bold initiatives improving work and economic resilience.

Mississippi job creation organizations can access funding through the H Hovnanian Family Foundation for projects in education, entrepreneurship, youth leadership, public health, and community development that generate employment. Eligible U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofits with at least one year of outcomes may receive up to US $10,000, with preference for work implemented in New Jersey’s Monmouth and Ocean Counties.

Mississippi nonprofits and public entities working on job creation, workforce development, or economic mobility may be eligible for Grand Rapids Community Foundation’s Fund for Community Good, which primarily serves Kent County, Michigan. Organizations addressing education, health, housing, arts and culture, economic prosperity, or environmental justice with an anti-racist focus can submit year-round pre-applications online.

Nonprofit institutions working to create jobs and strengthen rural economies in Mississippi and nationwide can use this program to establish and operate rural cooperative development centers. Grants from USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture help organizations provide technical assistance to start, expand, or improve cooperatives and mutually owned rural businesses, supporting job creation and economic development.

Municipal governments working on workforce development and job creation in Mississippi can apply for support to join an eight-month Municipal Workforce Learning Lab. Focused on public policy and workforce readiness, Georgia Municipal Association and partners provide coaching, technical assistance, and peer connections to help cities strengthen recruitment, training, and retention of local government employees.

Mississippi organizations that engage volunteers 55+ to support job readiness, housing, behavioral health, or related services can access funding through Volunteer Mississippi via the AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP Opportunity. Grants up to Up to US $75,000 support senior volunteer programs that strengthen families, reduce homelessness, and help older adults and caregivers across the state.

Tribal governments and Alaska Native villages in Mississippi seeking to develop housing, community facilities, or economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income residents can apply for US HUD funding. Grants from US HUD help support single-purpose community development projects and address imminent threats to public health or safety through the Indian Community Development Block Grant program.

The MPPEP Phase 3 program aims to enhance processing capabilities for invasive, wild-caught catfish, benefiting both processors and fishers. By increasing processing capacity and volume, the initiative seeks to create fair wages and stable job opportunities, fostering economic growth in rural areas. This grant will support innovative strategies that ensure sustainable practices and elevate incomes within the community, thus contributing to the overall development of the meat and poultry sector.

Nonprofit 501(c) or 170(c) organizations in Mississippi working on economic and community development, workforce readiness, financial wellness, arts and culture, veterans, or disability services may be eligible for matching donations from Regions Bank associates. This national matching gifts program can help job creation and related initiatives stretch individual contributions further.

The Sustainable Forests and Communities Grant aims to foster environmentally and economically sustainable forest communities in the U.S., particularly where the Weyerhaeuser Family has interests. It prioritizes projects enhancing the environment, economy, and community through sustainable practices. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities operating in forested areas, focusing on integrated approaches that value forest ecosystem services. This initiative encourages local job creation, sustainable economic activities, and innovative partnerships to achieve sustainability goals.