WBD Opportunity Funds Grant

The WBD Opportunity Funds support nonprofit organizations that foster small business development in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan's Upper Peninsula. With investment amounts ranging from $5,000 to $50,000, the fund emphasizes job creation and community growth. Applications for funding are accepted year-round, but early submission is advised, especially by August 15 for consideration in the current fiscal year. WBD is committed to a diverse array of projects aimed at enhancing economic development.

NOTE: WBD has a committee to review requests that meets at least quarterly. Generally, November, February, May and September. The committee can take action to recommend investments at any meeting. All recommended investments must approved by the Board of Directors. With limited resources, smart applicants will submit an application as early as possible in our cycle, and throughout the year. The last day each year to submit an application for consideration for funding in that year will be August 15. Applications received between Aug 15 – October 1, may be held for consideration for funding in the following Fiscal Year if appropriate.
Each year WBD invests in projects/activities/organizations with specific efforts aligned with our mission to Grow Businesses, Create Jobs and Build Communities.
Workforce development and job training programs
Providing capital and/or financial resources to under served markets
Small Business Incubators
Technical Assistance Provides such as Small Business Development Centers, Veteran’s Business Outreach Centers, Women’s Business Centers, and/or the Service Corps of Retired Executives
Contributions to other local nonprofits that provide grants and/or entrepreneurial training to small businesses or scholarships to students for participation in such entrepreneurial training programs
Revolving Loan Funds as direct loans or matching funds for a federal, state or local program
Downtown revitalization projects
Financing economic impact studies to enable or document local economic development efforts
These examples are guidelines, but other efforts that support the growth or development of small business that creates jobs will also be considered.
Funding
Typical WBD investments range from $5,000 - $50,000. WBD will consider a multi year commitment in some cases.
We can approve an exception to the indirect costs rule up to 10% of the total budget depending on the project and specific circumstances. We will work with final candidates to discuss these possible costs in later application rounds.
All commitments for investments will be completed each year by Sept 30.

Eligibility

Any nonprofit organization focused on supporting small business development with activities in Wisconsin, Minnesota or the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

Ineligibility

Funds cannot be used for:Capital improvements (for example, purchasing a building)
Providing funding directly to entrepreneurs (investing in an entrepreneurs business)