Digital Sandbox KC

Any Massachusetts-based business that has been awarded funds through SBIR Phase II may be eligible for grants and business guidance to help them create jobs and commercialize their technologies. Each year, the program awards 17 grants ranging from $100,000 to $500,000.

The Supply Chain Optimization Program is designed to help Virginia businesses looking to improve their supply chain processes to pursue exporting initiatives. Eligible companies can apply for up to $10,000 in reimbursement for expenses associated with supply chain enhancement. Companies also receive expert guidance on supply chain mapping, transportation, import compliance, and more.

The Downtown Houston+ Property Improvement Grants offer property owners, businesses, and developers in Downtown Houston multiple funding opportunities to revitalize buildings, activate storefronts, and enhance street-level vibrancy. Administered by Downtown Houston+ in partnership with the Houston Downtown Management District and the Downtown Redevelopment Authority, the program currently includes four grant pathways tailored to different types of improvements: the Thrive Storefront Grant Program, which offers 1:2 matching grants of up to $50,000 to fund ground-level storefront improvements that increase retail activity and street-level vibrancy; the Facade Improvement Grant, which provides up to $250,000 to help property owners and tenants within the TIRZ #3 boundaries revitalize building facades; the Alfresco Grant, which provides up to $10,000 for non-permanent outdoor furnishings such as seating, umbrellas, and planters, with an additional $5,000 available for permanent fixtures like awnings and lighting; and the Fresh Start Market Grant, which works with existing grocery-offering businesses to enhance fresh food offerings, staff training, and physical improvements to their space. All grant applications are evaluated against the Downtown Houston+ Design Standards, and awards are subject to available budget and organizational priorities.

Delaware small businesses may apply for a Compass Grant to support international travel or business development activities. This grant offers greater flexibility than previous programs. Compass Grant funds may be used to reimburse up to 50 percent of all pre-approved, eligible, international marketing expenses, up to a maximum of $10,000 per fiscal year, per company.

The Invest DSM Commercial Grant Program provides Des Moines commercial property owners and small businesses with matching grants of up to $50,000 to fund deferred maintenance, repairs, code compliance upgrades, and facade improvements. Administered by Invest DSM, a nonprofit partnership between the City of Des Moines and Polk County focused on revitalizing select Des Moines neighborhoods, the program is available to property owners and business owners (whether they own or lease their space) located within one of Invest DSM's designated Special Investment Districts. The grant operates as a dollar-for-dollar match covering half of project expenses up to $50,000 per retail bay, with an additional matching grant of up to $10,000 available to cover pre-development costs such as architectural drawings, project feasibility studies, environmental studies, and interior or window display design assistance. For external aesthetic improvements like signage, window displays, and facade work, applicants who collaborate with one of Invest DSM's artists on a custom design can receive 70 percent of those costs covered. Eligible uses include facade, signage, and awning updates, roof, window, and door replacement or repair, major systems and code compliance upgrades, public art such as murals, exterior site improvements like patios, concrete work, landscaping, and parking lot repaving, and energy-efficiency upgrades including solar and wind installation. Applicants must be current on all municipal and county dues, fees, and taxes. In addition to grant funds, recipients also receive one-on-one consultation, advice, and technical support from Invest DSM specialists throughout the entire project.