The Wish Local Empowerment Program

VCEDA operates a Renewable Energy Fund to help attract new green jobs and investment to Southwest Virginia's e-Region and to help diversify its economy. Projects eligible for funding from the Renewable Energy Fund include commercial/industrial generation projects using renewable energy sources; manufacture of renewable energy products and components; and workforce development and training projects to prepare the region’s workforce for renewable energy jobs. Funding is available as low-interest loans and/or grants for real estate acquisition, building construction, equipment purchases, and other physical improvements adding value to real estate, including associated soft costs. Grants are available to assist with workforce development and training, including tuition reimbursement, internships, and training equipment.

The STEP grant is intended to offset international business development and related marketing costs for small businesses. Grant proceeds may be used for specific international business development and marketing costs. Grants under the STEP program are capped at $15,000 per business to reimburse for costs associated with export related international projects, activities or services consistent within the STEP guidelines.

Purpose: The goal of the Senate Bill 1 Sea Level Rise Adaptation Planning Grant Program (SB 1 Grant Program) is to support the implementation of SB 1 (Atkins, 2021) for local, regional, and tribal governments. Ultimately, the SB 1 Grant Program aims to provide funding for coastal communities to develop consistent sea level rise (SLR) adaptation plans and projects to build resilience to SLR along the entire coast of California and San Francisco Bay. Description: The SB 1 Grant Program aims to provide funding for sea level rise (SLR) adaptation planning to help prepare communities for the impacts of climate change. While many jurisdictions have advanced planning already underway or complete, many others have yet to begin comprehensive planning or assessments. The Ocean Protection Council (OPC) aims to address this need by offering funding for a range of SLR planning activities.

The Credibly Small Business Award celebrates passionate business owners who are making an impact in their communities. We award exceptional small businesses each year with funding to accelerate their growth.

The Business Acceleration Grant supports existing businesses and provides funding assistance that allows for the expansion or improved operation of qualified Englewood businesses. The grant offers up to $10,000 for physical/capital investments that support expanding businesses, improve business operations, or foster business retention. Capital improvements are permanent investments in the building or on the property, which are generally associated with a building permit. Businesses open in Englewood for a minimum of two years are eligible to apply. Businesses that apply for funding assistance must either own their building or if the business is a tenant have a minimum of two years remaining on a lease for eligibility. Successful grant applications should demonstrate that funding will yield an increase in the number of employees at the business or an increase in sales revenues.