Philadelphia Fair Chance Hiring Initiative

A central goal of the BRAIN Initiative is to understand how electrical and chemical signals code information in neural circuits and give rise to sensations, thoughts, emotions and actions. While currently available technologies can provide some understanding, they may not be sufficient to accomplish this goal. For example, non-invasive technologies are low resolution and/or provide indirect measures such as blood flow, which are imprecise; invasive technologies can provide information at the level of single neurons producing the fundamental biophysical signals, but they can only be applied to tens or hundreds of neurons, out of a total number in the human brain estimated at 85 billion.Other BRAIN FOAs seek to develop novel technology (RFA-NS-17-003) or to optimize existing technology ready for in-vivo proof-of-concept testing and collection of preliminary data (RFA-NS-17-004) for recording or manipulating neural activity on a scale that is beyond what is currently possible. This FOA seeks applications for unique and innovative technologies that are in an even earlier stage of development than that sought in other FOAs, including new and untested ideas that are in the initial stages of conceptualization.In addition to experimental approaches, the support provided under this FOA might enable calculations, simulations, computational models, or other mathematical techniques for demonstrating that the signal sources and/or measurement technologies are theoretically capable of meeting the demands of large-scale recording or manipulation of circuit activity in humans or in animal models. The support might also be used for building and testing phantoms, prototypes, in-vitro or other bench-top models in order to validate underlying theoretical assumptions in preparation for future FOAs aimed at testing in animal models.

The WorkClean: Diesel Modernization Program provides funding for both diesel-to-diesel and diesel-to-electric projects designed to improve air quality, especially in areas that do not meet the national air quality standards. Older, low-quality diesel vehicles and equipment operating in the State contribute heavily to air pollution, negatively affecting the health of our residents, particularly in overburdened communities. Diesel engines emit a complex mixture of air pollutants, comprised of both solid and gaseous material. The visible emissions you can see in diesel exhaust are known as particulate matter. These include many carbon particles (also called soot), as well as gases that become visible as they cool. Diesel particulate matter (diesel PM) has been identified as having the potential to cause cancer, as well as many other adverse health effects. In addition to particulate matter, emissions from diesel-fueled engines include over 40 other cancer-causing substances. The Bureau of Mobile Sources’ Diesel Modernization Program is primarily a diesel replacement program. This program utilizes State and Federal funding to replace both marine engines and non-road diesel vehicles – anything from ferry vessels to backhoe loaders and bulldozers. Contingent upon open solicitations, the program also works with both municipalities and private entities to electrify on-road diesel vehicles, such as school buses, garbage trucks, and port equipment.

The Community STAND program is a grant initiative from the Denver Urban Renewal Authority designed to support the small businesses, nonprofits and Business Improvement Districts that help anchor Denver’s neighborhoods. Grants range from $10,000 to $50,000. C-STAND supports projects that help community-serving organizations remain anchored in their neighborhoods while strengthening the existing community fabric. Grant funding may be used for a variety of eligible project costs that support stabilization, long-term presence and positive community impact. Supported projects may include physical improvements, equipment purchases, costs associated with securing or owning space and other investments that enhance an organization’s ability to serve its community. DURA is open to creative proposals and encourages applicants to share how their project supports neighborhood stability, preserves community culture and advances the goals of the C-STAND program.

The DC Restaurant & Retail Stabilization Grant provides up to $50,000 in financial assistance to small restaurant and retail businesses in Washington, DC that experienced a revenue decline in 2025. Funded by the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) and administered by Capital Impact Partners — a local nonprofit community development financial institution — the program is a $3.875 million initiative designed to help brick-and-mortar businesses remain operational and support long-term sustainability. Grant funds may be used to cover occupancy costs and payroll over a six-month grant period. Preference is given to businesses that lost more than 10% of gross revenue in 2025, did not receive prior DMPED funding in 2023–2025, have a positive impact on the local community, and purchase goods or services from the DC, Maryland, or Virginia economy.

The Detroit Legacy Business Project provides financial and technical assistance to small businesses that have operated continuously in Detroit for 30 or more years and have meaningfully contributed to the city's cultural identity through their products, services, and community engagement. Administered by the City of Detroit in partnership with the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC), the program offers tiered grant funding designed to help longstanding businesses make capital improvements, modernize operations, and remain rooted in their neighborhoods. Awards include $50,000 citywide grants, $15,000 district grants (with two awarded in each of Detroit's seven City Council districts per round), and microgrants of $2,500 and $5,000 disbursed at staff discretion to cover smaller projects with a streamlined application process. Grant funds may be used for product inventory, equipment and machinery, furniture and fixtures, software subscriptions, building repairs and renovations, façade and exterior beautification, and professional services such as branding, marketing, financial, legal, and architectural support. Eligible applicants must be independently owned and operated, headquartered in Detroit, open to the public, and able to document at least 30 years of continuous operation in the city.