Micro-Grant Program

The Polson Chamber of Commerce Micro-Grant Program offers targeted, small-scale financial support to Chamber members for projects, events, and initiatives that directly benefit the Polson-area business community. This program is an extension of the Chamber’s mission to enhance the local business climate, promote the region, and foster a sense of community among its members. With a total annual allocation of $2,000, the program provides flexible funding to support community-driven efforts that increase economic activity, boost local engagement, and elevate the visibility of businesses in the area. Applicants to the program must be active members of the Polson Chamber of Commerce in good standing and must operate within the Polson area. Proposals are evaluated based on their alignment with the Chamber’s mission, community impact, feasibility, financial responsibility, and the extent to which they recognize and promote the Chamber's support. Projects eligible for funding include community events that attract visitors, business-related educational workshops, joint promotional efforts encouraging local spending, and initiatives that strengthen economic or civic engagement. Funding cannot be used for ongoing operational costs, personal travel, or efforts outside the Chamber’s service area. The same or similar project may not be funded in consecutive years. The application process requires applicants to submit an online form at least 30 days before the planned event or funding need. Required information includes the organization’s name, primary contact details, a description of the organization’s mission, and a clear explanation of the intended use of funds. The Polson Chamber Board of Directors, with input from an appointed advisory committee, reviews all submissions and makes final funding decisions. Grants may be awarded in full or in part, depending on the strength of the proposal, alignment with strategic goals, and availability of funds. Strong applications clearly articulate a benefit to the Polson business community, are well-planned, realistic, and show collaboration with other organizations. They should provide a transparent budget or funding use case and include a plan for publicly recognizing the Chamber's support. Grantees must participate in recognition activities, such as photo opportunities with Board members and displaying the Chamber logo in promotional content. They also agree to allow the Chamber to use media and photos from the funded project for promotional purposes. After completing their projects, recipients may be asked to submit a brief report detailing how funds were used, describing attendance or engagement outcomes, and outlining the community impact achieved. Failure to submit a report could impact future funding eligibility. While the exact turnaround time for funding decisions is not guaranteed, applications are reviewed periodically by the Board, and decisions are communicated directly to applicants. This is a locally-focused, recurring program designed to help Chamber members turn creative, impactful ideas into action that benefits the wider Polson business ecosystem. Applicants can submit different projects in future years but are discouraged from repeating the same proposals for back-to-back cycles.

Clearly describe community benefit, use of funds, and how Chamber support will be recognized.