Bloomington's Urban Enterprise Association Announces 2024 Grants And Scholarships

The Bloomington Urban Enterprise Association (BUEA) proudly announces an array of grant and scholarship programs designed to uplift businesses and residents within the Enterprise Zone, with a renewed emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. These programs are tailored to support the community encompassing the area north, west, and south of Downtown.

Three prominent grant initiatives, coupled with three scholarship programs, are now accessible and are aimed at fortifying safety, security, accessibility, and DEI efforts within the community.

The Small Business Safety & Security Grant earmarks $25,000 annually to bolster safety and security measures within Zone businesses, while the Business Building Improvement Grant allocates an equivalent budget to enhance physical infrastructure and promote economic vitality. Further, the Accessibility Modification Grant dedicates $25,000 annually to facilitate ADA compliance, ensuring inclusivity for all patrons.

In line with our commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion, the BUEA will again offer the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Grant, offering scholarships of up to $1,000 to Zone businesses seeking to self-assess and enhance practices related to anti-racism or diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Moreover, businesses partnering with other Zone businesses or nonprofits for DEI training are eligible for increased grant amounts of up to $1,250 per business, fostering collaborative efforts in advancing DEI initiatives.

The Business Economic Enhancement Scholarship offers up to $1,200 in financial support for professional development opportunities aimed at bolstering the economic stability of businesses or organizations operating within the Zone. The scholarship can be utilized for business-related training, economic development classes, professional organization membership dues, or conference registration fees for either the business owner or any employee. 

In addition to these business-focused endeavors, the Resident Economic Independence Scholarship empowers residents with financial assistance of up to $750 per semester for two semesters, totaling $1,500, to pursue post-secondary education and skills enhancement.

Andrea de la Rosa, Executive Director of the BUEA, expressed excitement about the expanded grant offerings, stating, "These programs represent our commitment to fostering economic growth and building a more inclusive and dynamic community."

The BUEA remains steadfast in its commitment to bolstering businesses and residents within the Enterprise Zone, and eagerly anticipates receiving applications. Eligible candidates are encouraged to seize this opportunity and propel their endeavors forward with the support of the BUEA.

For comprehensive details on eligibility criteria for the grant and scholarship offerings, and to initiate the application process, please visit the BUEA website.