The Genesis For Good Catalyst Empowerment Grant Program

The Genesis For Good Catalyst Empowerment Grant Program is a funding initiative launched by the Genesis For Good Foundation in collaboration with Genesis Bank, the Genesis Bank Institute for Entrepreneurship (GBIE), and Fiserv, Inc. The program supports small businesses and entrepreneurs operating in low-to-moderate income communities across Southern California, specifically in Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties. Through this initiative, eligible business owners can receive grants of up to $10,000 to strengthen their business infrastructure, create jobs, and foster sustainable economic growth within their communities. The Genesis For Good Foundation is a philanthropic organization committed to partnering with community-focused organizations to uplift underserved communities. Genesis Bank, one of only five multiracial Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs) in the U.S., drives this effort forward by using its financial resources and advisory services to support small business resilience and entrepreneurship. The grant program offers more than just funding. In addition to the grant award, recipients gain membership in Catalyst 360°, a resource and mentorship platform run by GBIE. This membership provides access to advisory services, business development tools, and a vibrant entrepreneurial community. Grantees also receive the Genesis + Clover Bundle, which includes Fiserv’s Clover point-of-sale system with waived entry costs and discounted subscriptions, providing technology that supports business growth and customer experience enhancements. To be eligible, applicants must operate a small business within the designated counties, have gross revenues of $500,000 or less, and be in continuous operation for at least one year with no more than 10 employees. The business must be located in a HUD-defined low-to-moderate income area and comply with all required local licensing and registration standards. A 3-minute video is required as part of the application, highlighting the owner’s background, community mission, and how the grant would accelerate their growth. The program does not accept applications from nonprofit organizations, political entities, or any business with connections to employees or affiliates of Genesis Bank. Grant applications are accepted via the Genesis For Good website, and applicants are encouraged to check for future phases of the program online.

Focus on community impact, clear use of funds for growth, and HUD-area qualification