Small Business Grants to support small businesses owned by Black, Latino, and Tribal individuals in Clallam, Jefferson, and Kitsap Counties

$5000-$10,000 awards to eligible businesses 

The Olympic Workforce Development Council (OWDC) is proud to sponsor a new Small Business Grant with our Commerce Reinvestment Fund Initiative through WorkSource Kitsap and WorkSource Clallam. The Commerce Reinvestment Fund (CRF) initiative aims to support small businesses owned by Black, Latino, and Tribal individuals in Clallam, Jefferson, and Kitsap Counties by providing grants between $5,000 and $10,000. These grants are designed to bolster your business and workforce through various means, including providing your current employees with short-term certifications, reskilling, or upskill training, and equipment for your business and other eligible assets to facilitate business growth and expansion. The OWDC and WorkSource are committed to fostering diversity, equity, access, and inclusion in the local business community, and we believe that investing in the growth and development of underrepresented entrepreneurs is crucial for economic empowerment and sustainability.

Deadline for Applications: August 15, 2024 Grant Award: Anticipated on or around October 1, 2024

 Download flyer    Grant Application

Eligibility

• Small Business (fewer than 50 employees)
• Funds are prioritized for workforce development activities and self-attested Black, Latino, and Tribal business owners to address systemic barriers and promote diversity.
• Business licensed in Clallam, Jefferson, or Kitsap County
• The proposed project supports employee development, skill enhancement, business growth, and economic mobility.

Eligible Projects Include:
 

• Employee Development: Funding can be used to provide worker training such as short-term (6- month period or shorter) certifications and other employee development that reduces the cost of training employees, supports worker retention, and provides upskill or advancement opportunities for employees. The maximum grant award in this category is between $5,000 and $10,000. WorkSource will directly fund the training provider.
• Asset Purchases that Lead to NEW Hires or Business Sustainability and Growth: Acquiring assets such as furniture, equipment, machinery, or software that produces long- term benefits by increasing revenue, increasing business value, and/or improving operations, all of which contribute to business growth and sustainability. The maximum grant award is between $5,000 and $10,000 for asset purchases. These grants are to be utilized for new asset purchases with funds being distributed directly to vendors. Funds cannot be used for working capital, land and building acquisition, or relieving existing debt. WorkSource will work with your business to make these purchases directly.