Big Dreams Grant

Businesses based in Middletown, Connecticut, and that have been in operation for a minimum of 24 months (among other qualifications) may be eligible for this operating assistance grant. The maximum grant amount will not exceed $5,000 and can be used toward rent, utilities, and other ongoing fixed expenses and operating costs.

The Southeastern Connecticut Enterprise Region has a $10,000 grant program for small businesses in southeastern Connecticut that need help with professional business services, equipment purchases, and inventory. Eligible businesses must have been in business for at least one year, have an annual revenue between $35,000 and $1.5 million, and be in good standing with the CT Department of Revenue Services.

The Manufacturing Innovation Fund Voucher Program (MVP) provides CT companies with access to capital to help them obtain new equipment and the expertise they need to become more efficient, productive, and competitive. Eligible companies can apply for a grant up to $100,000 to conduct a new project. First-time applicants are required to provide a cash match of 2:1 and repeat applicants 3:1. That means, First time applicants provide 67% of the total proposed project cost and repeat applicants provide 75% of the proposed project cost. The program is administered by the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology with funding provided through the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development's Manufacturing Innovation Fund.

The Reimagine Oregon Economic Opportunity Investment Fund Grant provides Portland based for-profit businesses, nonprofits, and social service organizations with flexible grant funding ranging from $5,000 to $300,000 for standard projects, or $50,000 to $700,000 for large-scale anchor projects. Administered by Prosper Portland and funded through Recreational Cannabis Tax revenue, the program is focused on supporting economic and business development for communities disproportionately impacted by the historical prohibition of cannabis. Funding is awarded through two tracks. Track 1 supports for-profit businesses with grants designed to strengthen and grow existing operations, scale new businesses, and promote entrepreneurship, job creation, and economic growth across Portland. Track 2 supports nonprofit organizations and those operating under a fiscal sponsor with grants focused on building community wealth, promoting economic empowerment, and supporting social enterprises. Each track includes both standard grants and anchor project grants, with anchor projects supporting larger initiatives that act as catalysts for economic growth and community development. Eligible uses of funds are intentionally broad and include strategic investment capital, infrastructure development, business incubators and innovation centers, community-owned business support, job creation and training programs, mixed-use community hubs, employment opportunities, housing development, and property acquisition. To qualify, applicants must be located within the City of Portland, fit one of the eligible organization types (for-profit, nonprofit, or social service org with a 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor), and demonstrate how their proposal relates to and benefits communities disproportionately affected by cannabis prohibition. Direct political advocacy, personal use, and prior Reimagine Oregon grant recipients are not eligible.

The KC Small Business Grant provides established small businesses in Kansas City, Kansas with a one-time grant of up to $10,000 to help offset expenses that support expanded daily operations and business growth. Administered by the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City's Department of Economic Development, the program is designed to stimulate economic growth, attract new investment, and strengthen neighborhood vitality by supporting existing businesses that are primed for expansion. To be eligible, a business must be located in Kansas City, KS, have fewer than 25 employees, and have been operating for at least one year. Grant funds may be used for renovation costs (such as sheetrock, flooring, and painting), façade improvements, inventory, equipment, and marketing (including webpages and signage). Certain business types are ineligible, including home-based businesses, liquor stores, payday loan businesses, hookah and vape shops, and new businesses operating less than one year.