Small Business Assistance Grant Program
The City of Bend’s Small Business Assistance Grant Program provides funding to help local businesses improve operations, strengthen resilience, support growth, increase competitiveness, and invest in climate-smart projects.
Helping Bend Small Businesses Grow and Thrive
Small businesses play an important role in Bend’s economy and community. The Small Business Assistance Grant Program provides funding to help local businesses strengthen operations, invest in employees, improve services, adapt to changing conditions, and explore new opportunities for growth. The program also supports projects that reduce environmental impacts and advance community climate goals.
Whether you are upgrading technology, training employees, improving customer experiences, planning for the future, or investing in energy-saving improvements, this grant program may be able to help.
Funding Available
A total of $130,000 is available through the Small Business Assistance Grant Program and will be distributed among qualifying businesses.
Funding has been allocated as follows:
- $100,000 for economic development projects
- $30,000 for climate and sustainability projects
Applications for this grant will be accepted for 45 days beginning August 5, 2026.
Funding is currently available through this program. Additional funding opportunities may not be available in the future.
Who Can Apply?
You may be eligible if your business:
- Is registered in Oregon
- Has a current City of Bend business registration
- Employs 50 or fewer people
- Operates within the City of Bend
- Proposes a project that benefits business operations in Bend and supports program goals
What Types of Projects Can Be Funded?
The program supports a variety of business improvement projects, including:
What Can Grant Funds Be Used For?
Grant funds may be used for:
- Professional services and consultants
- Employee time dedicated to the project
- Equipment, tools, and technology
- Training and certifications
- Marketing and communications
- Translation services
- Project supplies
- Technical studies and assessments
- Environmental planning and support services
How Applications Are Scored
Applications are evaluated and scored on several factors, including:
- Business impact and community benefit
- Readiness to complete the project
- Project feasibility and budget
- Alignment with program goals
- Equity and accessibility considerations
Category | Points |
|---|---|
Project Impact | 42 |
Business Capacity and Readiness | 12 |
Feasibility | 12 |
Alignment with Program Goals | 12 |
Equity and Accessibility | 12 |
Total | 100 |
Climate Project Applicants
Businesses applying for energy-related projects are encouraged to first explore incentives and funding opportunities available through utility and energy-efficiency programs. Applications should explain how those opportunities were considered before requesting grant funding.
Ready to Apply?
Take the next step to invest in your business.
Submit an online application to be considered for funding through the City of Bend Small Business Assistance Grant Program.