Local Safety Grants

City of Ashland Business Beautification Grant Program 2023 – Oregon: The City of Ashland is offering the Business Beautification Grant to support private investment in renovating and rehabilitating existing lodging and commercial properties within Ashland City limits. The grant provides financial assistance through a fifty percent (50%) grant match to non-residential property owners for exterior cosmetic improvements, outdoor lighting upgrades, code violation alleviation, sidewalk and infrastructure installation, signage or awning installation, landscaping, outdoor seating installation, and removal of non-conforming or illegal site elements. Eligible applicants must be current property owners or tenants of non-residentially developed properties within City limits with no outstanding debt to the City. All beautification activities must comply with City building and zoning codes and be performed by a licensed general contractor or service provider. Applicants are required to submit a minimum of two quotes for the project and adhere to all building and land use codes as applicable. More information is available on the City of Ashland website.

This funding opportunity provides up to $2 million to a single organization to enhance statewide tobacco prevention efforts in California through communication, technical assistance, and support for local initiatives targeting high-risk populations.

The City of Takoma Park’s Food Insecurity Reduction Grants aim to provide financial support to programs, projects, and events that reduce or prevent food insecurity among Takoma Park residents. This grant aligns with a mission to ensure community well-being by addressing basic needs and promoting equitable access to food resources. The program's strategic priority is to leverage ARPA funding to create a tangible impact on food security within the city, reflecting a theory of change that direct financial support to local initiatives will effectively combat food insecurity at the community level. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are residents of Takoma Park who experience or are at risk of food insecurity. The program targets 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and 501(c)(6) business associations that serve these individuals. The impact goal is to significantly reduce or prevent food insecurity through targeted interventions, ensuring that vulnerable populations have reliable access to nutritious food. Individuals and for-profit enterprises are not eligible, focusing the grant's resources on established community-oriented organizations. The program prioritizes initiatives that demonstrate a clear strategy for preventing and reducing food insecurity. Funding for FY25 allocates $155,000 in ARPA funding, with individual grant awards ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 for a 15-month period, from October 1, 2024, to December 31, 2025. This focus on specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) objectives ensures that funded projects are well-defined and can demonstrate clear progress. Expected outcomes include an increase in the number of Takoma Park residents with consistent access to food and a reduction in instances of food insecurity across the community. Measurable results will likely involve metrics such as the number of individuals served by grant-funded programs, the quantity of food distributed, and documented improvements in food access within Takoma Park. The grant duration of 2 years and the specific funding period allow for sustained efforts and the evaluation of long-term impact on food security.

The City of Port St. Lucie, in partnership with the Florida Small Business Development Center at Indian River State College, launched the COVID-19 Small Business Grant Program to financially support businesses affected by the pandemic. This program serves as a reimbursement grant, providing up to $10,000 for business-related expenses such as mortgage, rent, utilities, insurance, reopening costs, safety measures, and payroll during closures. The initiative is funded by FloridaCommerce through its Community Development Block Grant Coronavirus Program, demonstrating a commitment to economic recovery and stability within the community. The program primarily targets small businesses with 0-50 employees that were in operation before March 1, 2020, and have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. A key focus is on businesses located within qualified low-to-moderate-income Census Tracts (QCTs) or owned by individuals whose household income qualifies as low or moderate. This targeting aligns with a broader mission of supporting vulnerable populations and fostering equitable economic recovery within the city. Prioritization is given to applications from small businesses that have not previously received COVID-19 relief funding, ensuring that support reaches those most in need of assistance. The program aims to mitigate the financial strain caused by the pandemic, allowing businesses to cover essential operating costs and implement necessary safety measures. The emphasis on current tax status and registration with the Florida Division of Corporations underscores a commitment to supporting legitimate and compliant businesses. With a total of $390,000 initially available, and approximately $165,000 remaining after 23 approved applicants as of mid-March, the program has already made a significant impact. Expected outcomes include the sustained operation of small businesses, retention of employment, and a more resilient local economy. By providing direct financial relief, the grant contributes to the overall stability and recovery of Port St. Lucie's small business sector, particularly in its low-to-moderate-income areas.

This program provides funding for community-led initiatives in Phoenix that focus on improving neighborhood safety and security through block watch projects.

This funding is available to nonprofit organizations in Knoxville that are working to reduce opioid-related harm through prevention, treatment, and recovery support initiatives.

City of San Marcos Minority Business Stabilization Fund (Texas) - The City of San Marcos is offering minority entrepreneurs and small business owners within corporate city limits the opportunity to apply for the Minority Business Stabilization Fund Program. This one-time grant assistance program, funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), provides direct aid to minority-owned businesses in San Marcos. Grant amounts range from $1,000 to $10,000 based on the number of full-time employees and can be used for eligible expenses such as physical improvements, equipment, e-commerce expansion costs, rent, payroll, and operating expenses. To be eligible, businesses must have been in operation in San Marcos for at least 12 months, employ 1 to 25 full-time employees, and be at least 51% unconditionally owned by a socially disadvantaged individual. Only one grant may be awarded per business with multiple locations in San Marcos. For more information and to apply, visit City of San Marcos website.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations in Mecklenburg County that provide essential services to residents, focusing on community connectivity, economic opportunities, health, and safety.

This grant provides financial support to arts and humanities organizations, individual artists, and scholars in Montgomery County, MD, to engage the Wheaton community through diverse cultural projects and activities.

The "Main Street Connected" Grant Program, a collaboration between Main Street Oakland County (MSOC) and MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU), is designed to bolster small businesses in designated downtowns and historic neighborhood commercial corridors within Oakland County, Michigan. Its primary mission is to provide technology and digitally based support, complementing MSOC’s existing economic vitality efforts. This alignment ensures that the grant directly contributes to the broader goal of fostering economic growth and stability at the local community level, particularly within these vital commercial districts. The program specifically targets small businesses that are up to 10 years old and located within one of the Main Street Districts in participating cities, including Auburn Hills, Berkley, Birmingham, Clarkston, Clawson, Farmington, Ferndale, Lathrup Village, Oak Park, Ortonville, Pontiac, Rochester, Royal Oak, Southfield, and Wixom. The impact goals are centered on supporting the attraction, retention, and growth of these small businesses by enhancing their digital capabilities and operational efficiency. By doing so, the program aims to strengthen the local economies of these selected cities. The grant prioritizes and focuses on a range of eligible activities designed to improve a small business's technological infrastructure and digital presence. These include the development or use of data analytics software, payment processing software or equipment (such as Point of Sale systems), website creation and e-commerce support, and social media or digital marketing costs. Additionally, the program supports cybersecurity and data protection, customer relationship management (CRM) costs, and project or inventory management software. The creation or implementation of pop-up operations or public markets also falls within the scope of supported activities. Expected outcomes include enhanced digital literacy and operational effectiveness for participating small businesses, leading to improved market competitiveness and sustainability. Measurable results would likely include an increase in the number of small businesses adopting new technologies, growth in online sales or customer engagement, improved data management, and a stronger presence in both physical and digital marketplaces. The grant’s theory of change posits that by providing targeted financial assistance for technology and digital support, small businesses in these corridors will be better equipped to adapt to modern commerce demands, ultimately contributing to a more vibrant and resilient local economy.

The City of Philomath is offering a Social Service Grant Program designed to support projects or services that benefit Philomath community members. This grant aims to align with the city's strategic plan by addressing critical social needs within the community. The program's mission is to provide essential resources and services to vulnerable populations, fostering a more equitable and inclusive environment. The target beneficiaries of this grant are Philomath community members, particularly those who are underserved or experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity. The program also seeks to improve the overall health and wellness of the community, with a specific focus on mental health. Organizations applying for funding must be recognized as non-profits by the Federal Government with tax-exempt status or be governmental or quasi-governmental agencies. The City Council periodically reviews community needs to set funding priorities. Current priorities reflect those outlined in the Philomath Strategic Plan, which include providing basic services and resources to underserved populations, combating homelessness and housing insecurity, and improving health and wellness, including mental health. Recipients are also expected to incorporate practices of equity, inclusion, and diversity, as well as responsible stewardship of the land, air, and waters of Philomath. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed, the expected outcomes are a direct improvement in the lives of Philomath community members through enhanced access to basic services, reduced homelessness, improved housing security, and better overall health, including mental well-being. The city's strategic priorities and theory of change are centered on proactively addressing community challenges and investing in programs that foster a healthy, equitable, and sustainable Philomath.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and government agencies in Hawaiʻi to develop projects that boost the local film and creative industries, fostering economic growth and community benefits.

This program provides funding to local nonprofit organizations and educational institutions in San Diego to address community needs related to health, safety, and sustainability through tangible items like equipment and furnishings.

The City of Mukilteo’s Co-Sponsorship Grant process is designed to promote, support, and expand existing and new special events, activities, and programs within the city, as well as to publicize and support economic development initiatives. A key alignment with the city's mission is the support of activities that foster the general health and well-being of the community. This grant primarily functions by waiving facility rental fees for the use of City Facilities, thereby reducing a significant barrier for organizations looking to host beneficial events and programs. The target beneficiaries of this grant program include a broad range of public and private organizations. Specifically, qualifying organizations encompass non-profit volunteer groups, neighborhood groups, educational organizations, public agencies, and chambers of commerce. The ultimate impact goal is to enhance the quality of life for Mukilteo residents through increased access to cultural arts, recreation, youth and adult activities, and improved community safety. Furthermore, the program aims to stimulate economic growth through events and activities that promote job creation and business attraction and retention. The grant program prioritizes projects that are open to the public and offer enhanced opportunities in areas such as culture and arts, recreation, youth or adult activities, and community safety. Another key focus is on projects that promote job growth or promote business attraction and retention within Mukilteo. While the grant is generally open to Mukilteo-based organizations, there are limited exceptions for organizations outside the city that can clearly demonstrate the necessity and direct public benefit of their service to the Mukilteo community. The expected outcomes from this program are multifaceted. By waiving facility rental fees, the City of Mukilteo anticipates an increase in the number and diversity of special events, programs, and activities offered to its residents. Measurable results could include the number of events supported, the estimated attendance at these events, and the reported community engagement. From an economic development perspective, success could be measured by the number of jobs created or retained, and the growth of businesses attributed to grant-supported initiatives. The grant's duration is not specified, but projects must be accomplished by December 31st, 2025, suggesting a focus on near-term impact.

This funding opportunity provides neighborhood associations in South Bend with financial support for innovative, resident-led projects that improve community engagement and enhance local quality of life.

The Assets for Artists' 2025 Capacity-Building Cohort is a 6-month program offering a $2,000 unrestricted grant and professional development resources to emerging or mid-career artists from under-resourced communities in Northern Berkshire County, Massachusetts, aiming to strengthen their creative practice and achieve long-term sustainability.

This funding opportunity supports community-led initiatives in Philadelphia that aim to reduce violence and enhance neighborhood safety, particularly for young Black and brown men, through various programs like job training, educational outreach, and trauma-informed care.

The City of Shelby offers a grant program designed to enhance the visual appeal of commercial storefronts. This initiative aims to support property and business owners by offsetting a portion of eligible improvement costs, thereby contributing to the overall aesthetic and economic vitality of the city. The program operates on a 50% matching basis, requiring applicants to contribute an equal share to their project costs, with grants typically capped at $5,000 per individual project. Funding is provided on a reimbursement basis for work approved by the City of Shelby. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are commercial property and business owners within the City of Shelby. The program's core objective is to improve the appearance of their storefronts, which in turn is expected to foster a more attractive and welcoming business environment. While not explicitly stated as a foundation, the City of Shelby's mission alignment for this grant likely centers on community development, local business support, and urban beautification, contributing to a thriving local economy and improved quality of life for its residents. The program prioritizes improvements that directly impact the exterior aesthetics and functionality of commercial properties. Eligible enhancements include exterior painting, signage, awnings, storefront/facade cleaning and restoration, sidewalks, lighting, storefront security devices, new roofs, permanent flower boxes and planters, and other related exterior upgrades. Applications will not be accepted for work already completed, and grants are limited to one per business or storefront per year. This focus ensures that the grants directly contribute to visible and tangible improvements within the city. The expected outcomes of this grant program are enhanced curb appeal for commercial properties, increased attractiveness of business districts, and a potential boost in local commerce due to improved visual environments. While specific measurable results such as increased foot traffic or business revenue are not detailed, the program's success will likely be gauged by the number of completed projects, the visible transformation of storefronts, and positive feedback from both business owners and the community. The strategic priority of the City of Shelby, through this program, is to invest in its commercial infrastructure, demonstrating a theory of change where targeted financial assistance leads to tangible improvements, ultimately benefiting the entire community.

This program provides $50,000 grants to small nonprofit arts organizations in select states to strengthen their operational sustainability and enhance their community services.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for nonprofit organizations and educators to create programs that engage children in Yolo County, promoting behavior changes to improve air quality by reducing driving.