Grants are like a helping hand for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). They give money to SMEs so they can do better. This money does not need to be repaid, so it is like a gift. Small Business Grants help SMEs do new things, learn more and improve their products or services even further.
Sometimes grants focus on certain types of businesses or location, ensuring everyone has a fair chance. With grants, businesses can turn their ideas into reality and bring good things to their communities.
Small business grants to watch out for
Small business grants can be a great tool for new businesses to improve their operations. However, these grants have specific deadlines that you should keep in mind. In this roundup article, we will discuss SME grants with fall deadlines. Let’s get started.
1. The Opelika Chamber of Commerce
The Opelika Chamber of Commerce is now accepting applications for its Small Business Grant Program, aimed at supporting and boosting local businesses. This initiative aligns perfectly with the Chamber’s mission as it strives to provide a strong platform for small businesses.
Through this program, the Chamber intends to distribute grants to eligible businesses with a cap of $5,000 per grant, with the understanding that the amount awarded does not always correspond to the entire request.
Existing businesses will benefit the most since 80% of the grants will be allocated to them, while the remaining 20% will be reserved for promising start-ups.
Submission completed apps has grants@opelikachamber.com speak the end of August.
Grant eligibility:
To benefit from the subsidy, companies must have the following elements:
- A valid Opelika license
- Employ 20 employees or less
- Demonstrate a real need for financing
2. Pacific Power Grants for electric mobility
Pacific Power has introduced electric mobility grants, providing a golden opportunity for nonprofits, local governments and non-residential customers to contribute to Oregon’s sustainable transportation future. With a substantial fund of $1.5 million, these grants aim to amplify the accessibility of electric vehicles (EVs), primarily by supporting EV charging station projects.
The funding source comes from the Oregon Clean Fuels program, overseen by the Department of Environmental Quality, aimed at reducing the carbon intensity of the state’s transportation landscape.
Grant eligibility:
To benefit from the grant, you must be:
- Non-profit organizations
- Local governments
- Non-residential customers
Kate Hawley, senior product manager for electric transportation at Pacific Power, highlighted the company’s unique reach into Oregon’s diverse communities, from bustling urban centers to serene rural areas. As customers charge their electric vehicles at home, Pacific Power channels funds through the sale of Clean Fuels Program credits, demonstrating its commitment to green initiatives.
Applications are welcome until August 31, with expected completion of the project within 18 months of the award announcement in November. For more details, explore https://www.pacificpower.net/ev.
3. Humana Foundation Commitment to Mental Health Support
In collaboration with Greater Louisville Inc., the Humana Foundation has embarked on a partnership to strengthen mental health resources and provide assistance to small businesses in Louisville, Kentucky. This initiative is a response to those traumatized following the tragic mass shooting at the Old National Bank in April. The Humana Foundation is contributing $300,000 and matching up to $300,000 more in corporate and individual donations.
The program will reward one-year grants between $50,000 and $100,000 to help providers expand their services, according to their statement.
Grant eligibility:
To qualify for the grant, your micro or small business must provide services in the Greater Louisville and Southern Indiana area.
The deadline to apply is October 1, 2023. Apply here.
4. Warren County Small Business Grant Competition: Encouraging Entrepreneurship
Warren County’s annual small business grant competition has unveiled its latest application cycle, providing a valuable opportunity for both established small businesses and aspiring startups. The program awards awards of excellence in both categories, distinguishing first, second and third place. Existing businesses could earn $6,000 for first place, $3,000 for second place and $1,500 for third place. Meanwhile, in the startup category, the first place winner will receive $5,000, the second place contender will receive $2,500, and the third place aspirant will receive $1,500.
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications by August 31 deadline be part of this initiative.
Grant eligibility:
Existing businesses:
- Less than 10 full-time employees
- Must have at least 2 full-time employees (may include owner(s), 2 part-time employees may equal 1 full-time equivalent)
- You do not need to have a physical business location to apply, but businesses that have an existing business location will score higher. You will need to explain how you plan to have a physical location over the next twelve months in order to capture points in this category.
- Business must be located in Warren County
- Grant funds cannot be used for general current operating expenses, to repay past debts, or to reimburse expenses already incurred.
Start-ups:
- Future businesses must be located in Warren County
- Must plan to open a commercial location within two years
- Must plan to have at least two full-time employees within three years (may include owner(s))
- Grant funds cannot be used for general current operating expenses, to repay past debts, or to reimburse expenses already incurred.
Conclusion
Need more capital for your SME? Why not consider giving grants a try? For small and medium-sized businesses like yours, grants can be a real boost. They offer a chance to grow, learn and improve your business without the pressure of repayment.
Applying for small business grants could be a positive step toward realizing your business aspirations. Take a moment to explore these opportunities: they might just be the support you’ve been waiting for.
