Exciting Opportunity for BIPOC Small Business Owners: Apply for the KeyBank-Sponsored Mini-Grant!

Fourth Plain Forward announces the launch of our KeyBank-Sponsored Mini-Grant Program, designed to support BIPOC small business owners along the Fourth Plain Corridor. Through this initiative, we are offering $1,000 mini-grants to help local entrepreneurs purchase essential kitchen equipment or other vital business fixtures that can enhance their operations and overall business growth.

We understand that owning and operating a small business can be financially challenging, especially when it comes to investing in the necessary tools and equipment to keep things running smoothly. This grant is intended to ease some of that burden and provide the much-needed support to help your business thrive. Whether it’s an icemaker, a new freezer, or any other essential equipment, we want to ensure that our local businesses have what they need to succeed.

 Application Period & Selection Process

Applications for the mini grant will open on October 3rd and close on October 31st. During this period, eligible BIPOC business owners are encouraged to apply by submitting a simple application outlining their needs and how the grant can positively impact their business.

We will be selecting two applicants each month, starting in November and ending in February. Our first round of winners will be announced on November 15th, and the selection process will continue with new winners announced monthly. Applicants will be chosen based on financial need and how the grant will help their business improve and grow.

 What Does the Grant Cover?

Each mini grant of $1,000 can be used toward the purchase of essential kitchen equipment or other critical fixtures that will improve day-to-day operations. For example, if you’re spending money daily on bags of ice, you might want to invest in an ice machine to cut costs and streamline your workflow. Similarly, if you need a freezer or a refrigerator to expand your product offerings, this grant can help cover those expenses.

 Why This Grant Matters

At Fourth Plain Forward, we believe in empowering our local BIPOC community and providing opportunities that make a tangible difference in people’s lives. Thanks to KeyBank’s generous support, we can offer this direct financial assistance to small business owners who need it most. This grant will not only help alleviate some of the financial challenges but also encourage long-term growth and stability for small businesses in our area.

 How to Apply

Applying is easy! Simply click on this link starting on October 2nd to access the mini-grant application form. Be sure to provide detailed information about your business and the equipment you need. The more clearly you can demonstrate how the grant will help your business, the better.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to take your business to the next level! Apply before October 31st and keep an eye out for the announcement of our first grant winners on November 15th.

Let’s continue to uplift and support our local entrepreneurs. We look forward to reviewing your applications and seeing how these grants can help businesses along the Fourth Plain Corridor thrive!