BRIDGING FINANCIAL GAPS FOR WOMEN
Michigan Tribe micro-grants are designed for small businesses owned by those who identify as she/her. Funds are intended to give women the financial support they need to start, maintain, and grow a business in Jackson County, Michigan, especially those who do not have access to resources like traditional loan opportunities or financial support from friends and family.
Some examples of businesses eligible for Michigan Tribe micro-grants include, but are not limited to, in-home bakers ready to expand to a food truck, traveling or e-commerce boutiques ready to open a brick and mortar, artistic entrepreneurs expanding their medium into a full time gig, or those who need support to recover or pivot through a crisis (and others who meet eligibility requirements).
"Planting our own local field has been something we've wanted to do for a while now, but we weren't sure how we were going to budget buying ingredients and supplies for products, but pay for the new plants as well. With our original farm being in the UP this grant has been such a blessing because the lavender will be in our own backyard!"
EMMA KESTERSON / GRANDMA'S LAVENDER
"The Melanated Voices Grant funding allowed me to contract with a Facebook Ad and Funnel building expert and to build the foundation for my Virtual Studio Membership Site. These kinds of projects are surprisingly expensive and require a front end investment, the grant funding made that possible for me."
THERESA HORNE / SISTERHOOD OF STRONG
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
To be eligible to apply for a micro-grant through the Melanated Voices Fund or Women RISE Fund, you must meet the following criteria:
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Business must be at least 51% woman owned
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Business must physically be in Jackson County, Michigan (sole proprietors are eligible)
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Business must have 25 or less employees
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Business has to prove a need for financial support to start, maintain, or grow their business
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If applying for a micro-grant through the Melanated Voices Fund, business must be at least 51% owned by a woman of color
*Franchises and multilevel marketing business are not eligible to apply.
ELIGIBLE EXPENSES
Micro-grant funds can be used for expenses such as inventory or supplies; rent, mortgage, or utilities; payroll; advertising or marketing; upgrades, equipment, software, or machining; childcare related to business needs; or other operating expenses not listed.
Ineligible expenses include debts, non-business related mortgage, rent, or utilities; groceries; personal expenses; or childcare not necessary to maintain, grow, or start your business.
FAQs
Q: How quickly will businesses receive grant money?
A: Winners will be announced the week of October 7th and publicly celebrated at the MiTribe Anniversary Party on October 11th. If you're unable to attend the party, checks will be mailed by November 1st.
Q: How much money will businesses receive?
A: Winners can receive up to $2,000 in micro-grant funds. Not all grants will total $2,000 (some may be less).
Q: How many grants will be given away?
A: There are limited funds available, so only a handful of those who apply will receive funding.
Q: Who selects the winners?
A: A panel of diverse women business owners, plus representatives from Michigan Tribe, will review applications and select the winner/s.
Q: Can I donate to the micro-grant fund/s?
A: Um, yes (hugs)! Donations can be made to expand our giving power HERE.
PAST RECIPIENTS
Grants made possible by:
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