Grants

Venture Portland’s grant funds, like venture capital, are invested in the smart, strategic growth of Portland’s unique neighborhood business districts and help business districts city-wide best meet the needs of their diverse communities. Venture Portland grants fund many of the activities that make Portland Portland, including the summer ‘season of street fairs’ hosted by the city’s neighborhood business districts. Grants also make many holiday festivities, websites, banners, newsletters, maps and other marketing collateral possible for business districts.

Grant Awards

Since 1995 Venture Portland has granted more than $2.5 million to fund more than 750 business district projects, leveraging $5 million in additional private investment in districts city wide.

Current Funding Opportunities

Venture Portland Fall Grants – Due no later than 9/29/23 at noon (12pm)

Events and Marketing

Districts may apply for up to $4,000 to fund marketing, promotions and events occurring November 1, 2023 – March 1, 2024. Projects could include but are not limited to:

  • Holiday Events
  • Advertising/Marketing Campaigns
  • Websites/Social Media
  • Mailers/Passport Promotions
  • Fundraising Campaigns/District Merchandise (t-shirts, sweatshirts, beanies, etc)

District Enhancement
Districts may apply for up to $6,000 for any combination of the following projects occurring November 1, 2023 – March 1, 2024:

  • Holiday Lighting (street trees, storefronts, insurance, permits, etc)
  • Outdoor Seating Winterization (heating, furniture, tents, etc)
  • Public art (murals, sculptures, signage, etc)
    • Additional support may be available from RACC and PSAA
  • Accessibility (benches, bike racks, crosswalks, etc)
  • Greenery (street trees, flower baskets, planters, etc)
    • Additional support may be available from Friends of Trees
  • Livability (clean-ups, lighting, trash cans, etc)
    • Additional support may be available from SOLVE and Adopt One Block

Contractor/Consultant
Districts may apply for up to $6,000 to hire contractors, consultants or pay existing staff.

  • Must be spent between November 1, 2023 – March 1, 2024