Downtown SF Vibrancy Loan & Grant Fund

The Southern Smoke Foundation's Emergency Relief Program provides emergency funding to the owners and employees of restaurants and bars facing unforeseen circumstances that cannot be covered by insurance. To qualify, you must be experiencing an unforeseen crisis and currently be employed within the food and beverage industry, working at least 30 hours per week for a minimum of six months.

This grant provides reimbursement-based microgrants ranging from $500 to $5,000 to help small businesses in Moore County strengthen their operations and contribute to local economic vitality. Eligible businesses include retail, restaurant, and service-based businesses with a current storefront presence in Moore County. Businesses must be locally owned and independently operated, legally incorporated, and have 50 or fewer employees. Grant funds may be used for interior improvements and fixtures, storefront beautification and exterior renovations, equipment purchases, technology upgrades, strategic inventory purchases, marketing and advertising materials, website development and e-commerce platforms, health and safety upgrades, accessibility improvements and workforce development initiatives. “These types of improvements will enhance business sustainability, help create jobs, and revitalize commercial properties throughout Moore County,” said Burich.

The Skills Enhancement Fund (SEF) provides assistance to businesses to support training and upgrading skills of employees required to support new capital investment. The grant may be provided to reimburse a portion (typically 50%) of eligible training costs over a period of two full calendar years from the commencement of the project. Grants from the Skills Enhancement Fund must lead to post-secondary credentials, a nationally-recognized industry credential, or specialized company training for both new hires and existing workers, and an increase in wages for existing employees.

The Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont (NOFA-VT) offers annual Farmer Resilience Grants to projects that have a positive social, environmental, and economic impact in their community. Farmers can earn between $2,000 and $5,000 for their projects.

The Rhode Island Growth Catalyst Program is a targeted investment initiative designed to support the expansion of life sciences companies by supporting technology development and accelerating commercialization activities. By providing essential growth capital, this program acknowledges the vital role both innovators and manufacturers play in building a robust life sciences industry. Through strategic funding, the program helps businesses scale operations, drive technological advancements, and strengthen the state’s position as a leader in life sciences innovation and manufacturing.