Applications Open

A 2024 grant opportunity for Happy Valley aspiring and established business owners!

Downtown Bellefonte Inc., the non-profit organization behind Bellefonte SpringBoard, is offering two grants to support the small business community in 2024. Grant awardees will receive both funding and coaching opportunities to start or scale their business.

Here’s who’s eligible:

Two grants will be offered to new or established businesses within Centre County: One for those with a business idea or that have been in business for less than one year; and one for a business that has been established for more than one year.

Part of SpringBoard’s mission is to empower our local community to take their business ideas and turn them into a reality. This opportunity helps to carry out that mission.

What this grant opportunity includes:

Two grant recipients will receive cash funding in the amount of $2,500 to help start or scale their business. In addition to funding, recipients will receive:

  • A one-year, full time membership to Bellefonte SpringBoard. In addition to coworking opportunities, SpringBoard offers meeting room use, workshops and programming that are free for members, and more.

  • Access to a network of professionals for business-related advice, from marketing to business operations.

How to apply:

To apply, you must submit either a Dropbox link or Google Drive to Downtown Bellefonte Inc. Community & Programming Manager Kathleen Ammon via email. Your application should include:

  • A summary of your business

  • An outline of how provided funds could be used to start or scale your business

  • A short video (about a minute is fine, shot on your cell phone!) introducing yourself and your grant application concepts

  • Any additional materials that might support your grant opportunity — be creative!

  • A $500 financial match is required. Indicate how this will be funded. In-kind matches are acceptable, with provided documentation.

  • A short bio and photo of yourself, for marketing through SpringBoard’s social media channels and email.

Important dates:

  • Entries are due by Friday, April 12, 2024 by end of day.

  • Grant review committee will review applications and provide any follow-up questions by April 26, 2024.

  • Grants will be awarded by April 30, 2024, with SpringBoard memberships beginning May 1.