Fort Wayne SEED Business Grant

The Vibrant Places program supports local businesses that invest in improvements to their exterior appearance, including facades, landscaping, signage, and windows. The goal of the program is to enhance the vibrancy and improve the physical appearance of our commercial, industrial and mixed-use buildings. Grants range from $1,500-$50K based on business location and project scope. Maximum grant amount: $30K-$50K, depending on the location of the business. Businesses are required to contribute matching funds toward the total project cost. Funding is provided on a reimbursement basis. Businesses must cover expenses upfront and request reimbursement after project completion. Not all project components may qualify for reimbursement.

SBIR Assistance micro-grants are aimed at technology and research-based Wisconsin businesses, who intend to apply for SBIR/STTR federal funds. The business‘ SAM registration and SBIR submission must have a WI address. The grants cover reimbursement of costs up to $5000.00, incurred by a business in hiring an independent, approved third-party to assist in the development of federal Phase 1 SBIR/STTR research and development proposal.

The purpose of the DTO Facade Program is to encourage building owners, businesses, and owners of certain residential properties to invest in properties by financially assisting with renovations to rehabilitate their buildings and residences. Commercial Buildings located within the "Focus Areas" shall be eligible for funding for facade improvements, roof repairs and/or roof replacements of up to $200,000 or 80% of the total facade improvements, whichever is less.

MNG Brands' "Texas Hemp Retail Relief Grant" initiative directly addresses the urgent challenges confronting the Texas hemp industry. It will provide $5,000 "Recovery Grants" to ten reputable small businesses, offering crucial financial assistance during this period of significant regulatory change. Concurrently, an immediate inventory-swap program will be implemented for retailers holding stock that is no longer eligible for sale under the new regulations, enabling them to pivot quickly and remain in compliance.

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.