We are pleased to announce that the FY27 Business Development Grants application is now open! Click here to apply by Friday, September 11 at midnight. Questions? Join an upcoming Zoom info session (details below).
The United Way of Greater Charlottesville and the Minority Business Alliance of the Charlottesville Regional Chamber of Commerce are pleased to partner to this grant opportunity for small, for-profit businesses that have been in business for at least one year but may need financial assistance to continue operations. This opportunity is not intended for larger local businesses that are thriving (have multiple employees; considering growth or expansion, etc.) For these businesses, please consider applying for an Envision Enterprise Grant once that application opens.
Interested business owners are encouraged to attend at least one of the upcoming virtual info sessions being held on Zoom:
- Wednesday, August 26, at 9:00 AM – Information Session #1 – Zoom Link
- Thursday, August 27, at 4:00 PM – Information Session #2 – Zoom Link
- Wednesday, September 2, at 12:00 PM – Information Session #3 – Zoom Link
In order to qualify for a Business Development Grant, at least one primary owner should identify as being socially disadvantaged. Ten grants in the amount of $5,000 each may be funded from the $50,000 budget for the FY27 grant cycle. Successful applicants will be required to sign a grant agreement outlining the grant terms and conditions prior to receiving the funds.
Applicants that were recipients of the FY26 Business Development grant or another United Way of Greater Charlottesville grant opportunity are not eligible to apply for FY27. but may apply again for the FY28 grant opportunity next year. Successful applicants must meet all of the eligibility requirements outlined in the Eligibility Criteria:
- 40% – Clear and practical plan for the use of grant funding
- 30% – Evident need for the grant funding to stabilize business operations
- 30% – Demonstrated dedication to the community and long-term commitments to grow the business in said community
For more information on eligibility and application requirements, please click here.