Evanston Entrepreneurship Support Grant

Purpose: The purpose of the California Forest Improvement Program (CFIP) is to encourage private and public investment in, and improved management of, California forest lands and resources, to ensure adequate high quality timber supplies, related employment and other economic benefits, and the protection, maintenance, and enhancement of a productive and stable forest resource system for the benefit of present and future generations. Description: The program scope includes the improvement of all forest resources including fish and wildlife habitat, and soil and water quality. Cost-share assistance is provided to private and public ownerships containing 20 to 5,000 acres of forest land. Cost-shared activities include: Preparation of a Forest Management Plan by a Registered Professional Forester (RPF) and RPF Supervision of the following: Reforestation, Site Preparation, Trees and Planting, Tree Shelters, Stand Improvement, Pre-commercial Thinning or Release, Pruning, Follow-up (includes mechanical, herbicide and/or slash disposal follow-up), Forestland conservation practices / fish and wildlife habitat improvement Broadcast/controlled/cultural burning is not eligible for CFIP cost share.

Each year, we select 50 women entrepreneurs for a yearlong program designed to grow their businesses through workshops, coaching sessions, network-building, and financial resources. The program ends with a company presentation and in-person experience. In addition to educational resources and networking opportunities, the fellowship awards a $5,000 grant to each participant and access to 0%-interest Kiva loans.

OCAST awards funding of up to $500,000 to companies leading innovation projects that have the potential to create economic impact in Oklahoma. Projects must have an end user application within the targeted industries identified in the 2021-2026 Science and Innovation Strategic Plan, which includes biotechnology; aerospace, autonomous systems and defense; and energy diversification.

The Halstead Grant is an annual award for emerging silver jewelry artists. Applicants submit answers to 15 business questions in addition to their design portfolios. The experience is designed to help jewelry entrepreneurs create a strategy to kick-start their careers. The grand prize is a $7,500 cash grant plus other benefits.

The Business Security Camera Program encourages businesses to purchase and install exterior cameras on commercial properties. The program seeks to increase safety for shoppers, residents, and employees. Businesses citywide can receive up to 75% of the total eligible costs, as much as $3,000 for a single commercial property.