Opportunities For All (OFA) - Business Assistance Funds Program

The Business Assistance Funds Program is designed to assist culturally diverse small business owners and non-profit organizations with resources that will help local businesses grow and thrive.

Geographic Scope: Sarasota/Manatee region, Florida

Program Impact:

• Last year: 45 underrepresented businesses awarded $100,000 in grant funding
• Part of the two-part Opportunities For All (OFA) program
• Funded by the Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation

Eligibility Requirements

• At least 51% ownership of small business must be held by individuals from underrepresented communities
• Business must provide services or products in the Sarasota/Manatee region
• Can include non-profit organizations

Program Status

Note: The enrollment window for this year's OFA Business Assistance is currently closed.

2025 Grant Recipients

• Fashion and Beauty Boutique
• Flourishing Greatness Beyond Measure, Inc
• Humble Hearts Caregivers
• JD Wms Diversity Group
• Kinsey5Media
• Little Medical School Suncoast
• New College Child Center
• One Head at A Time, Inc.
• Party Popping Events, LLC
• Phatheadz Barbershop
• SailorGirl Transport LLC
• The Bradenton Gladiators Football Inc

Application Process

1. Review eligibility requirements
2. Prepare required documentation
3. Submit application during open enrollment window
4. Complete business plan as part of application
5. Await notification of awards

Required Materials:

• Application form
• Business Plan (template provided)
• Proof of at least 51% ownership by individuals from underrepresented communities
• Documentation of business services/products in Sarasota/Manatee region

Application Checklist: Provided by program

Business Plan Template: Available from program

Note: The enrollment window for the current year's OFA Business Assistance is currently closed. Interested applicants should contact the Chamber for information on future enrollment periods.