The City of San Diego’s Economic Development Department (EDD) has a grant opportunity for nonprofit organizations that can assist small businesses in under-resourced communities within the City. The application process is currently open through 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 27; so apply now! The Capacity Building Grant provides funding between $10,000-$30,000 that can be used for projects like business technical assistance, website creation, special event programming and more.

Throughout the years, funding has assisted a variety of organizations that are working to make their communities a better place, and have gone to programs supporting BIPOC women business owners, support for refugee and immigrant owned businesses and business development events for LGBTQ+ business owners, among others. 

Nonprofits who are awarded Capacity Building Grants can use funding to provide technical assistance to businesses, build a website, hang banners to promote local businesses and increase brand recognition, programming for special events, or creating/updating business directories. Only non-personnel expenses qualify for this program.  

Check out a summary of the FY 2024 Capacity Building Grant Recipients here. 

This program is dedicated to nonprofit organizations that serve small businesses within the San Diego Promise Zone, Opportunity Zones, and/or otherwise under-resourced communities. Priority is given to independent organizations with modest budgets. Proposals that align with the Economic Development Strategy will also be highly considered. Examples of goals/tactics related to small business support includes: 

• Placemaking

• Digital equity

• Sustainability practices

• Supporting the creative economy
   

Visit EDD’s Capacity Buidling Grant Program website for additional information. Applications must be received by 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 27.