Venture Portland is excited to announce the release of our brand-new Major Impact Grant applications! For this round, applicants may request $25,000-$50,000 for projects occurring between August 2023-July 2024. Applications are due no later than 7/14/23 at noon (12pm).

All applicants must have one representative attend a mandatory grants information session at the Venture Portland office (1125 SE Madison St, Ste 112) on June 28, 2023 from 5:30-7pm. RSVP to events@ventureportland.org no later than 6/21/23. During the meeting, district representatives should be prepared to sign a Letter of Intent to Apply.

This round will be highly competitive. We recommend taking advantage of Grants ‘Office Hours’ including Final Draft Review (see dates below). Venture Portland staff are here to help you succeed! Don’t wait until the last minute – email us a draft and we’ll call or email you with feedback.

The grant guidelines, application, and cover page can be downloaded at ventureportland.org. Districts may apply for one of the following types of projects:

  1. District Infrastructure
    Permanent/semi-permanent fixtures and/or physical improvements to the business district streetscape that enhance the visitor experience. Projects could include but are not limited to the creation/enhancement of landmarks (public art, notable signage/fixtures, etc), public spaces (plazas, pocket parks, etc), and streetscape improvements (bike racks, lighting, crosswalks, etc).
  2. Business District Staff
    Dedicated staff has been shown to be one of the key drivers of a healthy and thriving business association. Major Impact Grant funds may be used to hire a full-time/near full-time staff person for the period of one year or more to assist with event planning, grant writing and implementation, maintaining a member database, implementing a membership campaign, member communication (canvassing, newsletters, email, etc) and district marketing/promotion.
  3. Livability
    Projects that address the environmental and social quality of an area as perceived by residents, employees, customers, and visitors. This includes a business district’s public safety, environmental quality, community cohesion, friendliness, aesthetics, accessibility, and pride. Eligible projects include but are not limited to garbage cans/service, litter clean-up, graffiti abatement, and security services.

Major Impact Grant Timeline:

  • 6/12/23 – Applications released
  • 6/26-7/7 – Venture Portland staff available for grant writing assistance via telephone or Zoom (during normal operating hours)
  • 6/28 – Grant info session at the Venture Portland office (all applicants are required to have one representative attend)
  • 7/10-7/13 – Venture Portland staff available for final draft review via telephone or Zoom (during normal operating hours)
  • 7/14 – Applications due by noon (12pm)